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Who qualifies for a free national-park pass?
The main year-round free passes are based on disability, military or veteran status, or fourth-grade eligibility. Each has different proof and duration requirements.
People with a permanent disability: Access Pass
The free, lifetime Access Pass is for U.S. citizens or residents with a medically determined permanent disability that substantially limits one or more major life activities. Applicants must provide documentation from a licensed physician or a federal or state agency verifying the disability. Temporary conditions do not meet the published requirement. The pass covers entrance fees and standard amenity fees at participating federal recreation sites. NPS Access Pass details.
Current military members and dependents
Eligible current U.S. military members and dependents can receive a free annual Military Pass. Proof of qualifying status is required; military identification is one example cited by the National Park Service. Check with the issuing location about which documents it accepts. NPS annual Military Pass details.
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Veterans and Gold Star families
Eligible veterans and Gold Star family members can receive a free lifetime Military Pass. Proof of status is required; NPS identifies veteran identification or documentation as examples. Confirm acceptable documents with the pass issuing location. NPS lifetime Military Pass details.
Fourth graders, including eligible homeschool learners
Every U.S. fourth grader can obtain the free Every Kid Outdoors pass. The program also includes home-schooled and free-choice learners age 10. The student gets a voucher through Every Kid Outdoors. The pass is valid from September 1 through August 31 of the following year.
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The paper voucher covers the fourth grader and accompanying visitors under stated conditions, including use in a single private vehicle. The group allowance depends on how the site collects its entrance fee, so check the destination’s rules before going. NPS Every Kid Outdoors information.
Do seniors get a free national-park pass?
No. U.S. citizens and residents age 62 or older may qualify for a discounted annual or lifetime Senior Pass, but it is not free. Check the NPS Senior Pass page for current eligibility and price, since prices can change.
Which 2026 dates offer free entrance?
The National Park Service lists these 2026 entrance-fee-free dates for U.S. citizens and residents at NPS sites that charge entrance fees:
- February 16 — Washington’s Birthday (Presidents Day)
- May 25 — Memorial Day
- June 14
- July 3–5 — Independence Day period
- August 25 — 110th NPS birthday
- September 17 — Constitution Day
- October 27 — Theodore Roosevelt’s birthday
- November 11 — Veterans Day
These dates are specific to 2026. A free entrance day does not necessarily waive timed-entry requirements, reservation costs, or charges for other services. Check the park’s current page before travel. NPS 2026 fee-free dates and details.
How do you get a pass, and what should you bring?
NPS describes three ways to obtain an America the Beautiful pass: get one at a participating federal recreation site, order a physical pass through the USGS Store, or obtain a digital pass through Recreation.gov. Not every location stocks every pass, so check availability before making a trip.
- Confirm the pass type. Check the relevant NPS page to verify that you qualify and identify the required proof.
- Choose an issuing method. Visit a participating federal recreation site, order a physical pass through the USGS Store, or look for a digital pass through Recreation.gov.
- Bring your proof and follow local instructions. Carry the required eligibility documentation and present or display the pass as directed by the park or issuing site.
- Check the destination’s remaining requirements. Confirm whether it requires a reservation or timed entry, or charges separately for parking or activities.
What does free entry cover—and what might still cost money?
A pass or fee-free day addresses entrance fees under the applicable program; it is not a blanket waiver of every park-related charge. The Access Pass also covers standard amenity fees at participating federal recreation sites. Timed-entry reservations, parking, and activities may have separate charges or requirements, and fee collection varies by location. Check the park’s own page for the rules that apply to your visit. NPS entrance fees and passes.
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