Traveling To National Parks In 2026? The New National Parks ID Requirement U.S. Residents Should Know Before Visiting

Travel to some of the United States’ most iconic national parks could come with [higher costs](https://secretlosangeles.com/free-national-park-days-2026/) for everyone this year. The changes are tied to the new executive order titled “Making America Beautiful Again by Improving Our National Parks” that went into effect at the beginning of January. Under the latest phase of the policy, non-U.S. residents will face substantially increased entrance fees at select national parks. While U.S. citizens are now required to verify their status through government-issued identification. Identification Requirement for U.S. Citizens -------------------------------------------- While U.S. citizens would remain exempt from the increased fees, entry would require proof of citizenship through government-issued photo identification. Accepted documents include: * A U.S. passport * A U.S. state or territory driver’s license * A state-issued identification card * A Permanent Resident (Green) Card Visitors unable to present qualifying identification at the time of entry will be treated as foreign visitors and charged the higher non-resident rates. Increased Fees for Non-Residents -------------------------------- Non-residents are now required to pay $250 for an annual national parks pass. The new fee is more than 3 times the amount the past $80 fee. Visitors who choose not to purchase an annual pass could still enter parks using the standard $15–$35 single-entry fee , but would be subject to an additional $100 surcharge. These higher fees would apply at 11 of the most visited national parks in the country: * Acadia * Bryce Canyon * Everglades * Glacier * Grand Canyon * Grand Teton * Rocky Mountain * Sequoia & Kings Canyon * Yellowstone * Yosemite Planning a Park Visit in 2026 ----------------------------- Travelers planning a visit to National Parks in 2026 are advised to carry a valid government-issued photo identification for each and every visitor at all times in order to avoid unexpected entry fees or access issues at participating parks. It’s best to monitor the official National Park Services website for the latest updates on the new policies. Source: https://secretlosangeles.com/national-parks-id-rule-in-2026/