Pass holders were notified if their pass received a one-time extension on the validity period. This impacted most of the passes issued between 2017 and 2022 and is decribed on the Pass Renewal & Extension Information webpage. A status update on undelivered replacement passes was posted to that webpage on August 4, 2025.
If you were part of the extension and you have not alerted us that your pass did not arrive, email us at ParkPassRenewal@parks.ca.gov. This new email address is monitored by staff working on this project. Include the name on the pass, the pass number, and current (and old, if updating) mailing address. If you cannot email us, you may call the Parks Pass Office at 1-800-777-0369 x2 and leave a message with this information.
You can continue using your existing pass until the replacement arrives.
Summer recreation has generated a surge in online discount pass application submissions. We are working diligently to review applications as quickly as possible. Please allow 2-3 weeks to receive an update on your submission. For faster processing, apply in person at a participating pass sales location.
This free pass entitles the bearer to free vehicle day use, family camping and boat use at over 100 California State Parks-operated units.
WHO QUALIFIES
Honorably discharged veterans who have California residency, and one of the following three criteria/criterion:
- An overall/combined service-connected disability at a rating of 50% or greater with service during periods of wartime or operations against a foreign power (See list below).
- Held as prisoners of war by forces hostile to the United States.
- Recipient of the Medal of Honor.
HOW TO OBTAIN THE DISTINGUISHED VETERAN PASS
- Apply and submit your documents.
- Get approved.
- Receive your pass.
- Enjoy free entry to the parks.
Prepare for the application process by reviewing the Distinguished Veteran Pass Application Requirements.
Online: For the fastest processing, as well as secure transfer of information, follow the Online Application Steps.
By mail: Download the Distinguished Veteran Pass Application (PDF) and mail with required documents.
In person: Available at select pass sales locations. Please see the Pass Sales Locations webpage for participating parks.
USING THIS PASS
- Review the Distinguished Veteran Pass Terms and Conditions (PDF) for full details on the use of your pass and pass benefits.
- Once your pass is received, you may use the pass card for reservations and applicable benefits.
- Use the resources below to find the names of the locations that accept this pass:
- Passes are valid for five years before renewal is required. Review the Pass Renewal and Extension Information webpage for current information.
- To receive your benefits online when booking camping reservations, the pass holder must log into ReserveCalifornia using the same email address they provided at the time of application. If you need assistance updating your contact information, email passinfo@parks.ca.gov.
Note: Lifetime pass holders are not permitted to own more than one lifetime pass.
Qualifying Service Dates
| May 9, 1916 - November 11, 1918 |
| December 7, 1941 - December 31, 1946 |
| June 27, 1950 - January 31, 1955 |
| November 1, 1955 - May 7, 1975 |
| May 15, 1975 |
| January 1, 1981 - Present |
LOST OR STOLEN PASSES
A lost or damaged pass may be replaced only by reapplying for the pass. No refunds can be issued. Prior to reapplying, pass applicants must contact us through Park Pass Questions to report the pass as lost or stolen.
For more information, please contact the Park Pass Sales Office via Park Pass Questions.