(Photo: Edwards AFB)
Veterans with service-connected disabilities and their caregivers now have easier access to military bases under new rules announced by DoD and the VA. The changes, which took effect on November 1, allow eligible individuals to register for recurring access using valid identification, eliminating the need to stop at visitor centers for every visit.
These adjustments address issues Veterans and caregivers have faced since 2020, when a law expanded on-base privileges to about 4 million Veterans with service-connected disability ratings from 0% to 90%, Purple Heart recipients, former prisoners of war, and designated caregivers. Many encountered delays or confusion about entry requirements due to inconsistent policies and complications from the COVID-19 pandemic.
Under the new system, Veterans and caregivers can enroll at a base visitor center by presenting a Veteran Health Identification Card, VHIC, or a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or ID. The process includes a background check and electronic verification of eligibility. Once enrolled, access is typically valid for one to three years or one year after the last visit. Veterans and caregivers will then only need to show the same ID at the gate for future visits.
While access to installations has been simplified, additional documentation may still be required at commissaries, exchanges; or morale, welfare, and recreation MWR facilities. Veterans without a VHIC must present a VA-issued service-connected disability letter or VA Health Eligibility Center Form H623A, while caregivers need to provide a VA-issued patronage letter.
The fiscal 2019 National Defense Authorization Act opened commissaries, exchanges, and recreational amenities to a wider group of Veterans and caregivers. These facilities include golf courses, theaters, and bowling alleys, and now serve millions of new patrons.
“Team Exchange looks forward to serving those who served with tax-free shopping and military-exclusive pricing,” said Tom Shull, CEO of the Army and Air Force Exchange Service in a statement.
The updated rules also support VA partnerships with military installations, allowing Veterans to use on-base medical facilities. Agreements are already in place at locations in Kentucky, Florida, Alabama, and Virginia, with plans to expand further.
Ashish Vazirani, Acting Undersecretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness, said the changes improve the experience for Veterans and caregivers.
“Our Veterans and their caregivers deserve a smooth experience in accessing installations,” he said.
VA Deputy Secretary Tanya Bradsher stated in an announcement that these updates reflect ongoing efforts to serve those who have given so much.
Author: Rikki Almanza
Rikki is a Web Content Coordinator for the American Legion, Department of California. With a deep-rooted connection to the military, a spouse who is a Navy veteran, a father who served in the Air Force for 25 years, and a grandfather who proudly served, Rikki is committed to using her skills and knowledge to provide valuable assistance and resources to servicemembers and veterans.