Fuel Pumps Temporary Closure
The fuel pumps will be closed on Thursday, May 1st and Thursday, May 8th from 0900 to 1300 for inspection and testing. We apologize for any inconvenience. Thank you for your understanding.
Mandatory REAL ID Base Access
Effective May 7, 2025, all guests and visitors 18 years and older accessing Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego should be prepared to present a REAL ID-compliant driver's license or an approved alternate form of identification (i.e. - U.S. passport) to enter the base, in accordance with federal law, MCO 5530.13, and the Department of Homeland Security’s REAL ID Act.
For more information: https://sandiego.usmc-mccs.org/real-id
Before You Arrive
Base Access: MCRD San Diego is located just northwest of downtown San Diego and north of the San Diego International Airport, Lindbergh Field. Gate 5 (Washington St.) is the main visitor gate.
Entering and Leaving the Depot: All visitor vehicles MUST enter through Gate 5 (Washington St.). Vehicles and personnel will be searched upon entry. Expect delays and plan accordingly. Gate 5 opens at 4:00 PM for Meet and Greet and 6:30 AM for Family Day and Graduation.
Driver’s License/Registration/Insurance: If you are driving a vehicle, ensure you have a valid driver’s license, vehicle registration, and proof of insurance in your possession.
Identification: Every person age sixteen and older is required to have a valid form of photo identification to gain base access. Acceptable forms of U.S. government issued identification include: driver’s license, state identification card, passport, military dependent identification card, or school/work identification card (for persons under age 18).
Drugs: All controlled substances are prohibited aboard MCRD San Diego. Any person(s) found possessing a controlled substance or associated paraphernalia (i.e., smoking devices) will be found in violation of Federal law. A medical marijuana card does not authorize possession of marijuana aboard MCRD San Diego. Contraband will be seized and offenders may be cited and denied entry. Controlled substances include but are not limited to: marijuana (or related products), methamphetamines, hallucinogens, and prescription medication without a valid prescription.
Firearms/Weapons: All firearms and weapons are prohibited aboard MCRD San Diego. Prohibited weapons include bat are not limited to: knives greater than 3 inches, switchblades greater than 2 inches, and brass knuckles.
Rideshares: Rideshares (taxis, Uber, Lyft, etc.) are allowed access to the installation following a cursory vehicle search. If the rideshare driver chooses not to undergo the cursory vehicle search, the passenger must be dropped off at the designated pick-up/drop off location at each gate. A cursory vehicle search is an external visual inspection of the vehicle by law enforcement.