Naval Academy Resumes General Public Visits

ANNAPOLIS, MD — The U.S. Naval Academy and Naval Support Activity Annapolis are lifting some restrictions ahead of Commissioning Week 2026.

Starting Monday, officials will reinstate general public visits, allowing residents to access the grounds through gates 1 and 8.

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Residents are warned that increased security measures will be in effect at both installations, and that they may encounter delays and additional screenings during major events.

The Trusted Traveler Program remains suspended for the time being.

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At both gates, all visitors will be required to undergo a bag check and magnetometer screening. Random searches, including on vehicles, will be carried out at gates and throughout the academy property.

Current listed hours indicate residents can gain access through the turnstile at Gate 1 from 5 a.m. to 8 p.m. until Oct. 31. From Nov. 1 to Feb. 28, gate hours run from 5 a.m. to 6 p.m.

At Gate 8, only credentialed personnel are able to gain access 24/7 with a PIN code.

Visitors interested in gaining access must provide one of the following IDs:

• REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or state ID card (look for the five-point star on the card)
• U.S. passport or passport card (foreign passports are not permitted for general public access)
• Enhanced driver’s license issued by Michigan, Minnesota, New York, Vermont, or Washington

Any visitors under the age of 18 without one of the approved IDs must be accompanied by an adult who is able to submit a valid form of identification.

Related: Naval Academy Ups Security After Iran Strikes

Shuttle service from the Navy-Marine Memorial Stadium to the Naval Academy will be provided for certain events. However, once the service window closes, shuttles will only be provided for return trips.

Public access to the campus was rescinded in March, shortly after the U.S.-Israeli airstrikes on Iran. At the time, officials said restrictions were likely to "evolve."

Additional information regarding the restriction shift can be found online.