Free Lifetime National Park Pass for Veterans
Veterans and Gold Star families can get the America the Beautiful Military Lifetime Pass for free. It covers entrance fees at national parks, wildlife refuges, national forests and other federal lands for life.
Last checked: November 9, 2026
Three ways to get it
- 1
Online, instantly (free)
Order the digital Military Lifetime Pass on Recreation.gov. It saves to your phone. A physical card is optional for a $7.50 shipping fee.
- 2
In person (free)
Ask at the entrance station or visitor center of most national parks and federal recreation sites. Bring an accepted ID.
- 3
By mail
Order from the USGS Store for a $10 processing fee. It can take weeks to arrive.
Accepted ID for veterans
- Department of Defense ID card (DD Form 2, DD Form 2765, or the next-generation USID)
- VA Veteran Health Identification Card (VHIC)
- VA Veteran ID Card (digital) — how to get one free
- Veteran designation on a state driver's license or ID
Gold Star family members bring a printed Gold Star Voucher from the National Park Service.
Where it works
National Park Service sites, Bureau of Land Management, Bureau of Reclamation, US Fish and Wildlife Service, US Forest Service and US Army Corps of Engineers lands. Many states also offer free or discounted state park access for veterans. See your state.
Common questions
Do I need a disability rating to get the free veterans park pass?
No. Any veteran of the US Armed Forces, including the National Guard and Reserves, qualifies for the Military Lifetime Pass. A disability rating only matters for the separate Access Pass.
Is a DD-214 accepted?
No. Bring a DoD ID card, a VA health card (VHIC), the VA Veteran ID Card, or a veteran designation on your state driver's license or ID.
Who else gets in free with me?
The pass covers everyone in your private vehicle, or you plus three adults where fees are charged per person.
What doesn't the pass cover?
Camping, tours, special permits, reservation fees and concession-run activities.
Is there a free pass for active duty?
Yes. Current service members and their dependents get a free Military Annual Pass with a CAC or dependent ID.