NAVSTA NORFOLK
NAVY
Norfolk, VA
United States
NAVSTA NORFOLK
NAVY
Norfolk, VA
United States
NAVSTA Norfolk
Base Essentials
The world's largest naval station — home of the U.S. Atlantic Fleet, supporting aircraft carriers, destroyers, and submarines across 14 piers in Norfolk, VA. Tidewater's economic anchor with 75,000+ active-duty Sailors and civilians.
Base Details
Type
Naval Station
Branch
NAVY
Command
CNIC
Status
Active
Est.
1917
Acres
3,578
Active Duty
50,000
Civilian
18,000
Population
1,800,000
Economic Impact
$8.5 billion
NAVSTA Norfolk History
Naval Station Norfolk in Virginia is the world's largest naval station, established in 1917. It is homeport to aircraft carriers, amphibious assault ships, submarines, destroyers, and numerous other vessels of the Atlantic Fleet. The station supports the largest concentration of U.S. naval forces in the world and is adjacent to the major Navy commands and shipbuilding facilities of the Hampton Roads area. Norfolk is the hub of East Coast naval power and a critical national security asset.
Units Stationed
Unit
Nickname
Type
Commander Naval Forces Atlantic
—
—
Aircraft carrier and surface ship homeport
—
—
Carrier Strike Groups
—
—
Historic Timeline
1917
Naval Operating Base Founded on Jamestown Exposition Grounds
1941
NOB Becomes Atlantic Fleet's Wartime Headquarters
1953
Installation Officially Renamed Naval Station Norfolk
1999
Naval Air Station Norfolk Merged into a Single Command
2017
NS Norfolk Celebrates Its Centennial Anniversary
—
View Key Moments
(5)
1917
Naval Operating Base Founded on Jamestown Exposition Grounds
On June 28, 1917, President Woodrow Wilson set aside $2.8 million to purchase 474 acres of the former 1907 Jamestown Ter-Centennial Exposition site in Norfolk, Virginia, establishing the Naval Operating Base. Construction proceeded rapidly after U.S. entry into World War I, and by 1918 approximately 34,000 enlisted men were stationed there.
1941
NOB Becomes Atlantic Fleet's Wartime Headquarters
By 1941, as U.S. involvement in World War II loomed, Naval Station Norfolk dramatically expanded to serve as the operational headquarters of the Atlantic Fleet. Personnel counts surged from around 2,000 active military members in 1940 to over 40,000 by 1943, with the base directing escort and anti-submarine operations throughout the Battle of the Atlantic.
1953
Installation Officially Renamed Naval Station Norfolk
On January 1, 1953, the installation was officially renamed Naval Station Norfolk, retiring the Naval Operating Base designation it had carried since 1917. The renaming reflected the base's post-war evolution into a permanent, multi-mission installation rather than a wartime operating hub, and it had by this point become the primary home port of the Atlantic Fleet.
1999
Naval Air Station Norfolk Merged into a Single Command
On February 5, 1999, Naval Station Norfolk and the adjacent Naval Air Station Norfolk were consolidated into a single installation under a unified command, with the former NAS structure becoming NS Norfolk's Air Department and its airfield designated Chambers Field. The merger was driven by post-Cold War efficiencies and the Navy's broader Hampton Roads regionalization effort.
2017
NS Norfolk Celebrates Its Centennial Anniversary
On January 26, 2017, Naval Station Norfolk held its centennial celebration at the historic Pennsylvania House, one of the original buildings constructed for the 1907 Jamestown Exposition that still stands on base. The milestone marked 100 years of continuous operation as the world's largest naval station, home to 75 ships, 14 piers, and over 134 aircraft.
Phone Directory
Key phone numbers for NAVSTA Norfolk.
NAVSTA Norfolk Base Gates
Entry points, hours, and access requirements for NAVSTA Norfolk.
Gate hours can change suddenly during special exercises, holidays, and operational periods. We always recommend confirming details before you travel.
Visitor Access
What you need to know to get on NAVSTA Norfolk.
REAL ID Required
Trusted Traveler Suspended
Day Passes Available
How are you entering the base?
I have a DoD ID / CAC
Active duty, civilian employee, retiree, or dependent.
I'm visiting someone
Sponsored visit — a DoD ID holder will vouch for you.
I need a day pass
No sponsor — process through the Visitor Control Center.
Commercial / Delivery
Truck drivers, contractors, and vendors.
Quick summary
Naval Station Norfolk has suspended its Trusted Traveler Program. All visitors without authorized base credentials must now obtain a valid visitor pass from the Pass and ID Office (Visitor Control Center) prior to entry. Additionally, guests must be accompanied by an approved sponsor at all times while on the installation.
Guest policy
Visitors to NAVSTA Norfolk will either need to coordinate a sponsor who will escort them while on the installation, or will need to go to the Pass & ID Center to get a visitor’s pass for unescorted access. Depending on security measures in effect at any given time, the Trusted Traveler program may or may not be in effect.
Naval installations require all visitors who do not have a Common Access Card or Dependent ID to present a REAL ID or other compliant identification. Reference the U.S. Navy’s website for updated guidance and a list of compliant identification documents.
Pass & ID Center Address: 9040 Hampton Blvd., Building CD-9, Norfolk, VA 23505 (located just outside Gate 5)
Pass & ID Center Hours: Monday to Friday, 7:30 AM to 3:30 PM
Pass & ID Center Phone: (757) 322-2971
Parking information
All vehicles on base must be registered with the Pass & ID Office and parked in designated areas.
Confirmed June 4, 2026
· Sources: official .mil sites, MilitaryOneSource, base guide
Latest News
Recent articles and updates from NAVSTA Norfolk.
Information
25+ Things to Do Near Naval Station Norfolk in Norfolk, Chesapeake, and Virginia Beach
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Information
Welcome to NAVSTA Norfolk! Your Housing, Base Access, and Resource Guide
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Military Discounts
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Military News
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Entertainment Old
Explore Naval History With Victory Rover Norfolk Naval Base Tours
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PCS & Newcomers
Everything you need to know for your move to NAVSTA Norfolk.
Welcome center hours and contact details can change. We recommend confirming before you visit or call.
Naval Station Norfolk Administrative Office
Phone
(757) 322-2888Hours
Weekdays, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
In-Processing
Service members report to the Administrative Office on the first floor of Building N-26, 1530 Gilbert Street, Monday–Friday 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM. After hours or on weekends, report to the Quarterdeck of Building N-26 to have orders stamped, then return to the Admin Office the next workday.
The Transient Personnel Unit (TPU) at Building J-50, 1683 Gilbert Street provides 24/7 check-in guidance at (757) 444-1640. In-processing takes several days and includes check-in with Personnel, Finance, Housing, and Medical. Service members should be in uniform throughout the in-processing period.
The FFSC offers PCS planning consultations, Smooth Move workshops, Overseas Transfer classes, and settling-in services including welcome programs and local area tours. Contact (757) 444-2102 for orientation dates.
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Open PCS Checklist (14 Items)
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Sponsor Program Information
Temporary Lodging Details
Open PCS Checklist (14 Items)
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Join 200,000+ personnel for base news, PCS tips, exclusive discounts, and critical benefits info.
Always free. Unsubscribe anytime.
Sponsor Program Information
Temporary Lodging Details
Housing & BAH
On-post housing, cost of living, and BAH info for NAVSTA Norfolk.
4,000
units
/
2-9 mos
wait
/
VA298
MHA
On-post housing at Naval Station Norfolk is managed by Lincoln Military Housing, which operates family communities including Admiral's Cove and several other neighborhoods across the Hampton Roads area offering 2- to 4-bedroom homes. Lincoln provides an online portal for applications, maintenance requests, and resident communication, along with dedicated on-site res…
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Schools & Education
K-12 schools, colleges, and education resources near NAVSTA Norfolk.
School Liaison Officer
School Liaison Officer
12
Elementary Schools
View schools
3
Middle Schools
View schools
6
High Schools
View schools
3
Colleges & Universities
View colleges
Education Resources
Notes, tuition & more
Education Benefits
Check Your GI Bill Eligibility
Post-9/11 GI Bill, Montgomery GI Bill, and more.
Where To Live
NAVSTA Norfolk is located in the heart of the Hampton Roads metro area, so service members and their families have options across multiple surrounding cities (Norfolk, Chesapeake, Virginia Beach, Suffolk, Newport News, Hampton, Portsmouth). Some of these cities have lower cost of living, but are less desirable from the standpoint of traffic, infrastructure, safety, or school districts. Luckily, BAH in Hampton Roads is among the highest in the country, making more expensive areas like Chesapeake and Virginia Beach accessible to most service members.
Chesapeake
Suburban
Chesapeake offers a more affordable and quieter alternative to Virginia Beach with similarly strong schools and a suburban feel that works well for military families. The Great Bridge and Greenbrier areas are particularly popular — well-located relative to NS Norfolk with newer housing options. Chesapeake consistently ranks among the safest and most livable cities in Virginia.
Commute: 20–25 minutes
Gate: Gate 5 (Hampton Blvd)
Schools: Chesapeake Public Schools
Families with kids
Budget-friendly
Pet owners
Retirees
Chesapeake Arboretum, Northwest River Park, and numerous waterways make it great for outdoor families. Strong schools and lower cost vs. VA Beach make it the smart pick for families prioritizing value.
Virginia Beach
Suburban
Virginia Beach is the most sought-after destination for Norfolk-area military families, offering oceanfront living, excellent schools, low crime, and a vibrant social scene. The Kempsville and Great Neck areas are the sweet spots for Navy families — suburban, family-friendly, and within a manageable commute to NS Norfolk. BAH in Hampton Roads is among the highest in the country, making VA Beach achievable for most pay grades.
Commute: 20–30 min
Gate: Gate 5 (Hampton Blvd)
Schools: Virginia Beach City Public Schools
Families with kids
Outdoorsy types
Retirees
Dual military
Miles of oceanfront, First Landing State Park, and an outstanding dining and nightlife scene make VA Beach one of the best quality-of-life locations in the military. Great schools are a consistent draw for families.
Norfolk
Urban
Norfolk is a small coastal city with deep ties to NAVSTA Norfolk. Service members trying to minimize their commute time may want to consider a home in Norfolk, which is just outside the base. However, be aware that some parts of the city are nicer and safer than others. Desirable neighborhoods include: Larchmont/Edgewater, Ghent/Ghent Square, East Beach, and Willoughby Spit.
Commute: 20 min to gate
Gate: Gate 5 (Hampton Blvd)
Schools: Norfolk Public Schools
Virginia Zoo, Nauticus (maritime museum), Chrysler Museum of Art
Suffolk
Suburban
Suffolk, VA offers a slightly more affordable option compared to Chesapeake and Virginia Beach, albeit with a longer commute to NAVSTA Norfolk. Outdoorsy families will love having easy access to the Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge and local gems like Lone Star Lakes for hiking, kayaking, and fishing. North Suffolk, specifically, is a good option for servicemembers stationed at NAVSTA Norfolk.
Commute: 30-40 min to gate
Gate: Gate 5 (Hampton Rd)
Schools: Suffolk City Public Schools
Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge, Lone Star Lakes, historic downtown, Virginia Living Museum
Portsmouth
Urban
A historic coastal city located just across the Elizabeth River from Norfolk. Some parts of the city are nicer and safer than others. Additionally, the local school district is considerably lower in quality that neighboring districts, making Portsmouth a better option for servicemembers without school-aged children. Desirable neighborhoods include: Olde Towne, Churchland, Park View, and Shea Terrace.
Commute: 25-35 min to gate
Gate: Gate 2
Schools: Portsmouth City Public Schools
Multiple museums, well-preserved historic architecture, public art
Taxes & Finance
State tax policy and financial info for service members at NAVSTA Norfolk.
State Income Tax
Has state income tax
Military Pay
Fully taxed
Retirement Pay
Partially exempt
Vehicle Tax Exempt
No
Military Pay Details
Virginia taxes active duty pay at graduated rates up to 5.75%.
Spouse Income Tax
MSRRA applies. Virginia is the most common PCS state — taxes are a significant factor.
Vehicle Registration
Non-resident military may keep home-state registration. Virginia has personal property tax on vehicles.
Property Tax
Disabled veterans may qualify for property tax exemption. Rates vary significantly by county.
Combat Zone Exclusion
Virginia totally excludes active duty military pay earned in a combat zone from state taxable income for both enlisted p…
Additional Tax Notes
View full details below.
Pet Policies at NAVSTA Norfolk
Pet policies, vet services, and resources at NAVSTA Norfolk.
Emergency Vet
15 mi
Veterinary Emergency & Specialty of Tidewater
6095 Indian River Rd, Virginia Beach, VA 13464(757) 841-8378On-Base Vet Clinic
Coming soon
Restricted Breeds
7
Prohibited Animals
11
Dog Parks
3
Boarding & Kennels
6
Pet Guidance
2
Max Pets
/
No limit
Weight Limit
Pet Deposit
Refundable deposit, contact Liberty Military Housing for exact fees.
Leash Laws
Pet-Friendly Housing
Local Pet Notes
Required Vaccinations
Pet Shipping Tips
Temporary Lodging
Facilities & Services
On-base services and facilities at NAVSTA Norfolk.
Commissary
1
Naval Station Norfolk Commissary
Click2Go Available
Exchange
NEX
Monday - Saturday, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Sunday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Medical
4
Branch Health Clinic Naval Station Norfolk — Clinic
Childcare & Youth
CDC Available
Youth Programs
MWR & Recreation
3
Fitness Center
Swimming Pool
Employment & Education
3
Education Center
Spouse Employment
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about NAVSTA Norfolk.
01
Is there a commissary on base?
Yes, Naval Station Norfolk Commissary is on-base and open to all authorized DoD ID card holders. Call (757) 423-6070 for current hours.
Read answer
02
Is there a NEX on base?
Yes, NS Norfolk has a NEX (Navy Exchange) offering tax-free shopping for authorized ID card holders. There are also several satellite locations, some of which offer gas or barber shops. Use the NEX Store Locator to find additional details about these locations.
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03
What is the base hospital or clinic?
Naval Medical Center Portsmouth is the primary military treatment hospital serving NS Norfolk. Call (757) 953-5000 for appointments or the nurse advice line.
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04
Is there a childcare center on base?
Yes, NS Norfolk has a Child Development Center (CDC) offering full-day and part-day programs. There is also a Youth Center offering School Age Care and Teen Programs. Waitlists fill quickly — register at MilitaryChildCare.com as soon as orders are received.
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05
Is there temporary lodging on base?
Yes, NS Norfolk has on-post temporary lodging available for incoming PCS personnel and TDY visitors. Reserve early — spaces fill fast during peak PCS season (May through August). The Navy Inn at Sewell Point provides temporary lodging on base. All rooms at the Navy Inn are pet-friendly (this includes dogs, cats, birds and small caged animals). Up to two pets are allowed per room, and each pet must be 70 pounds or less. See the Navy Inn website for the full pet policy. Navy Inn at Sewell Point 1353 Gilbert Street, Norfolk, VA 23511 (757) 394-9164 NavyInnNorfolk@nexweb.org
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06
What school district serves the base?
In the state of Virginia, school attendance is determined entirely by home location, Norfolk City Public Schools (rated C- by Niche) serves military families in base housing at NAVSTA Norfolk. Families that choose to live off base may choose homes in the following nearby districts (included ratings are from Niche): Chesapeake Public Schools (A-), Virginia Beach Public Schools (A), Portsmouth Public Schools (C+), Suffolk Public Schools (B-).
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07
Are there pet breed restrictions on base?
Yes, on-base housing at NS Norfolk restricts certain breeds including Pit Bull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier, Staffordshire Bull Terrier, Rottweiler, and others. Contact the housing office or review your lease addendum for the full restricted breeds list. Wild animals and livestock are also restricted.
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08
Is there a gym on base?
Yes, NS Norfolk has three fitness centers available free of charge to Active-duty, Reserve, and retired members and their eligible family members. Contact MWR for current hours and locations.
Read answer
09
How do visitor passes work?
Visitors must be sponsored by someone with base access and should contact the installation's Pass and ID Center in advance with their government-issued ID and vehicle info. Day passes are issued at the gate; extended access may require additional coordination. Pass and ID Center 9040 Hampton Blvd., Building CD-9, Norfolk, VA 23505 (located just outside Gate 5) (757) 322-2971 Open weekdays, 7:30 AM to 3:30 PM
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10
What should I do first after receiving PCS orders?
Contact the gaining installation's housing office and military transportation office (TMO/PPSO) immediately after orders are issued. Apply for on-base housing right away — waitlists at many installations run 6–18 months.
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Question
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Data & Methodology
How we source this −
Information is compiled from DoD publications, official installation websites, and reviewed by military personnel. Independent publication — not affiliated with the U.S. Department of Defense.