Military access & shopping

Military installation access for eligible veterans

Eligible veterans and designated caregivers can enroll for installation access using a VHIC or REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or state ID; local security rules apply.

Who may qualify

Since November 1, 2024, eligible veterans without a VHIC and approved PCAFC primary family caregivers may enroll at each installation visitor center with REAL ID-compliant identification. Identity, criminal/terrorism screening and electronic benefit eligibility checks apply. Use the same enrolled credential on later visits. The removal of paper documents for enrollment does not remove purchase requirements: veterans without VHICs and caregivers still need applicable printed VA eligibility documentation for commissary, exchange and authorized MWR services. Access is not unrestricted and local restrictions apply.

What to check next

Contact the installation visitor center before traveling; confirm enrollment, accepted ID and purchase documentation.

Agencies decide eligibility. This independent summary is a starting point, not an entitlement decision.

Official source ↗Apply / get help ↗Read our plain-English guide ↗Related guide: Veterans commissary access ↗

Checked 2026-10-09 · Reviewed by Nathan Harlan

Official VA source reviewed October 9, 2026; agency and installation rules govern eligibility.

Who built this

Built and reviewed by Nathan Harlan, a U.S. Army Infantry veteran with 15 years of service, including two combat deployments to Iraq, and the founder of Ironsight Syndicate, a veteran-owned brand. I built this because finding the right benefits shouldn't take a law degree. This is an independent guide, not VA-accredited claims representation. For claims help, use a VA-accredited representative.