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Coast Guard Training Center Cape May PCS Guide
Military Base History
A CH-47 Chinook helicopter from the 28th Expeditionary Combat Aviation Brigade transports two 750-pound batteries from the Cape May Airport near Wildwood, New Jersey, to a lighthouse in the Delaware Bay April 17, 2025. The batteries were then installed by Coast Guard members from U.S. Coast...
Coast Guard Training Center Cape May began as a Navy base in 1917 to support World War I operations. The site’s strategic location on the New Jersey coast enabled rapid deployment and training of naval personnel.
After World War I, the base experienced reduced activity but remained a valuable military asset due to its coastal access. Its continued presence ensured readiness for future military needs.
During World War II, the installation expanded significantly. The U.S. Navy used the base for training and coastal defense, increasing its operational importance.
In 1948, the U.S. Coast Guard assumed control, officially designating the site as the Coast Guard Receiving Center. The base’s mission shifted to training new Coast Guard recruits, a role it still fulfills.
The installation was renamed Coast Guard Training Center Cape May in 1948. Since then, it has served as the sole enlisted accession point for the Coast Guard, graduating thousands of recruits each year.
The base has modernized over time, adding new barracks, classrooms, and support facilities to meet evolving training needs. These improvements ensure recruits receive up-to-date instruction and support.
Today, Cape May is the heart of Coast Guard enlisted training. It shapes the service’s workforce and supports the local community as a major employer.
The base has not undergone any further significant name changes since its 1948 redesignation, maintaining its legacy and mission.
Major Units & Training Programs
Recruits from company Bravo-207 meet their company commanders and begin recruit training during a ceremony at U.S. Coast Guard Training Center Cape May, April 11, 2025. Training Center Cape May staff members look forward to continuing the Coast Guard’s Long Blue Line of developing fleet-ready...
Major Units
U.S. Coast Guard Training Center Cape May Command
Responsible for the overall operation and administration of the Coast Guard's only enlisted accession point, overseeing recruit training and support services for all personnel on base.
Recruit Training Division
Conducts all aspects of basic training for new Coast Guard enlisted personnel, preparing recruits for service in the fleet through physical, academic, and practical instruction.
Training Schools
Coast Guard Basic Training
Overview
Covers fundamental military skills, Coast Guard history, seamanship, physical fitness, and core values to prepare recruits for service as Coast Guardsmen.
Course Length
8 weeks
Who Attends
New enlisted Coast Guard recruits
Arrival & In-Processing
Community members, service members, and their friends and families attend the Cape May County Coast Guard Community Festival at U.S. Coast Guard Training Center Cape May, N.J., May 20, 2023. Our yearly Coast Guard Festival is designed to make the local community feel welcome within our training...
Welcome to Coast Guard Training Center Cape May! Arriving at a new base is a big step, and being ready with the right documents and information will make your check-in smooth. Review the steps below to ensure you meet all requirements for a successful arrival. For more details, visit the official base website.
The main entrance to Coast Guard Training Center Cape May is the primary access point for all personnel and visitors. The main gate operates 24/7, ensuring round-the-clock access. All adults must present a valid Military ID, CAC, or a government-issued photo ID that meets REAL ID Act standards. Non-compliant state driver's licenses are not accepted for unescorted entry. Expect 100% ID checks and random vehicle inspections as part of the base's strong security posture. For family members or visitors, stop at the gate to request a temporary pass; sponsors must be present or submit prior authorization. Remain alert and follow all instructions from security personnel to ensure a safe entry process.
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PCS Orders (multiple copies)
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Military ID/CAC
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Marriage Certificate (if applicable)
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Birth Certificates (for dependents)
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Social Security Cards
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Vehicle Registration & Insurance
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Medical/Dental Records
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Proof of Housing (if applicable)
Coast Guard Training Center Cape May offers a robust sponsor program. To request a sponsor, contact your gaining unit's administrative office as soon as you receive orders. They will match you with a sponsor who can answer questions, assist with in-processing, and help you settle in. If unsure, reach out through the unit's point of contact listed on your orders.
Formal in-processing takes place at the Welcome Center, located near the main entrance of Coast Guard Training Center Cape May. Operating hours are typically Monday through Friday, 0800–1600. Key steps include check-in with Personnel, Finance, Housing, and Medical offices, as well as unit-specific orientation. Plan for the process to take 2–3 business days, depending on your needs and arrival time.
Visitor passes are issued at the Pass & ID Office, located just outside the main gate of Coast Guard Training Center Cape May. The office is open Monday through Friday, 0700–1700. Services include issuing visitor passes, DBIDS registration, and processing guest sponsorship requests. All visitors must be sponsored by a valid ID cardholder and present proper identification.
PCS & Relocation Essentials
Movers load a service member’s household goods into a moving truck at a residence in Pacific Grove, Calif., May 11.
Start your PCS to Coast Guard Training Center Cape May by reviewing your official orders and contacting your current Transportation Office. They will help you choose between a Household Goods (HHG) shipment, where the government moves your belongings, or a Personally Procured Move (PPM), where you handle the move and may be reimbursed. Use the Defense Personal Property System (DPS) at move.mil to schedule and track your move. This online tool is required for most PCS moves and helps you manage paperwork and appointments.
Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) helps cover your lodging costs while you search for housing at your new duty station. You may also qualify for a Dislocation Allowance (DLA) to offset moving costs. Check with your Transportation Office for exact entitlements and required forms. Coast Guard Training Center Cape May has unique base access and housing policies. Review the base’s arrival guide and contact your sponsor for the latest updates. Early communication helps ensure a smooth transition.
Temporary Lodging Information
Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) allowance
PCS Tips
- Request a sponsor as soon as you receive orders.
- Keep all PCS documents and orders in a safe, accessible place.
- Use DPS to track your shipment and communicate with movers.
- Label boxes with your name and destination room.
- Take photos of high-value items before packing.
- Contact the Base Transportation Office if you have special items or pets.
- Review Cape May’s housing and access policies before arrival.
Important Forms & Links
Schedule and track your PCS move online.
Check current TLE, DLA, and per diem rates.
PCS checklists, planning tools, and support.
Base-specific arrival information and contacts.