Expert: Rod Powers - 11/25/2007

Question
what are the limits to a DEP ID card? Could i enter the base on my own? Do i have privileges using the Gym? or the Commisary/BX on my own??

thanks

Answer
Hi Arjay,

I wish I could give a definitive answer, but -- in truth -- it's up to the policy(ies) of the installation commander of the base you wish to visit as a "Depper." In other words, each military base is different.

In 1997, the Department of Defense issued a policy authorizing DEP members access to some base facilities, if the installation commander determines that the Security posture of the base could support it. Therefore, on many Military installations (not all), you can use your DEP ID Card to access base facilities, such as the Base Exchange, movie theater, base fitness center, recreation center, etc., with a DEP ID Card.

However, the commissary is an "appropriated" fund activity, and not a "non-appropriated" fund activity, and therefore access is governed by federal law. Federal law does not currently authorize DEP members access, unless they are accompanied by a valid patron.

In short, whether or not you can access a Military base and what facilities your DEP ID Card will allow you to use on that base (except commissary) is completely up to the Installation Commander of that particular base. Your recruiter should be able to tell you the policies of any Military base in your local area.

For more information about the United States Military, feel free to visit my U.S. Military Information Site at: http://usmilitary.about.com