Edwards AFB
Edwards AFB PCS and Base Guide
Base History & Name
Victor Luquin, an aerospace engineer with the 773rd Test Squadron at Edwards Air Force Base speaks to students about glider aerodynamics prior to their flight experience on April 16, 2025. The 412th Test Wing's STEM program hosted students from Cabrillo High School in Long Beach to experience...
Edwards Air Force Base began as a remote Army Air Corps bombing and gunnery range in the 1930s. Its vast, dry lakebeds and clear weather made it ideal for flight testing.
During World War II, the base—then known as Muroc Army Air Field—expanded rapidly to support bomber and fighter training, as well as experimental aircraft development.
Postwar, the base became a hub for cutting-edge aviation. Renamed Muroc Air Force Base in 1947 and then Edwards Air Force Base in 1949, it hosted the U.S. Air Force's premier flight test center.
The base gained fame in 1947 when Chuck Yeager broke the sound barrier in the Bell X-1, launching the era of supersonic flight.
Throughout the Cold War, Edwards AFB led aerospace innovation. The base tested legendary aircraft such as the X-15, SR-71 Blackbird, and the Space Shuttle.
Units like the Air Force Test Center and the 412th Test Wing have been central to its mission, ensuring new aircraft and systems meet demanding standards.
Today, Edwards AFB remains the Air Force's primary flight test facility. It supports advanced research, unmanned systems, and space vehicle testing.
The base is a key employer in California's Antelope Valley and a cornerstone of the nation's aerospace industry. Its legacy continues to shape the future of military aviation and technology.
Namesake
Captain Edwards' legacy is closely tied to the base's mission. His contributions to flight testing and aviation safety made him a fitting namesake for the Air Force's premier flight test center. The renaming in 1949 honored his service and sacrifice.
Major Units & Training Programs
A KC-135 Stratotanker from Beale Air Force Base provides fuel to F-16 Fighting Falcons from Edwards AFB during an early morning test mission Nov. 21, 2024. 412th Test Wing operations at Edwards depend on highly skilled tanker crews from around the country throughout the year. (Air Force photo by...
Major Units
412th Test Wing
The 412th Test Wing is the host unit at Edwards AFB and is responsible for flight testing and evaluation of new and modified aircraft, avionics, and weapons systems for the U.S. Air Force. The wing manages the test and evaluation process for nearly every aircraft in the Air Force inventory.
Air Force Test Center (AFTC)
AFTC oversees and conducts developmental test and evaluation of air, space, and cyber systems for the Air Force. It provides expertise and infrastructure for testing advanced technologies and weapons systems.
NASA Armstrong Flight Research Center
Located on Edwards AFB, this NASA center supports high-risk, atmospheric flight research and advanced technology development for both military and civilian aerospace applications.
Training Schools
U.S. Air Force Test Pilot School
Overview
The Air Force Test Pilot School educates and trains experienced pilots, navigators, and engineers to become experimental test pilots and flight test engineers. The curriculum covers flight test techniques, systems evaluation, and advanced aeronautical engineering.
Course Length
48 weeks
Who Attends
Experienced Air Force pilots, navigators, and engineers selected for test roles
Arrival & In-Processing
Lt. Col. Vinh Tran, 412th Aerospace Medicine Squadron commander, hands out candy canes to a Team Edwards member at Edwards Air Force Base, California, Dec. 17. (U.S. Air Force Photo by Giancarlo Casem)
Welcome to Edwards AFB! Arriving at a new duty station is a big step, and being prepared makes your transition much smoother. Make sure you have all required documents and know the base’s access procedures before you arrive. For the latest updates and resources, visit the official Edwards AFB website.
Edwards AFB’s main entrance is the West Gate, which serves as the primary access point for most arrivals. The West Gate operates 24/7, ensuring access at any hour. The North and South Gates may have limited hours; check ahead if you plan to use those. All drivers and passengers must present a valid Military ID, CAC, or other approved credentials. State-issued driver’s licenses must comply with the REAL ID Act—non-compliant IDs will not be accepted for base access. Expect 100% ID checks for all vehicle occupants and be prepared for random vehicle inspections as part of the base’s robust security posture. If you need to sponsor a visitor or family member, stop at the Visitor Control Center near the main gate to obtain a temporary pass. Sponsors must be present or submit required information in advance.
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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 already arranged)
Edwards AFB offers a robust sponsor program to help newcomers settle in. Contact your gaining unit or the Military Personnel Section to request a sponsor before arrival. Many units also have online sponsor request forms available through the Edwards AFB website.
Formal in-processing takes place at the Military Personnel Section, located in Building 3000 near the main base area. Operating hours are typically Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Key steps include check-in with Personnel, Finance, Housing, and Medical offices, as well as any required unit briefings. Plan for in-processing to take 2-3 business days, depending on your situation and required stops.
The Visitor Control Center (VCC) is located just outside the West Gate, making it easy to access before entering the main base. The VCC operates Monday through Friday, 6:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., and limited hours on weekends. Services include issuing visitor passes, DBIDS registration, and processing guest sponsorship paperwork. Arrive early to avoid delays, especially during peak PCS seasons.
PCS & Relocation Essentials
ROBINS AIR FORCE BASE, Georgia – Maj. James Hodgson, Air Force Reserve Headquarters (left), receives a briefing and relocation check sheet from Personal Property manager Staff Sgt. Brent Rochette, noncommissioned officer in charge, 78th Logistics Readiness Squadron’s Traffic Management Office at Robins Air Force Base, Georgia, Dec. 15, 2021.
Arriving at Edwards AFB starts with receiving your official PCS orders. Once you have orders, contact your current installation’s Transportation Office to schedule your move. Choose between a Household Goods (HHG) shipment, where movers pack and transport your belongings, or a Personally Procured Move (PPM/DITY), where you handle the move and may receive reimbursement. The Defense Personal Property System (DPS) is your hub for managing your move—use it to schedule shipments, track progress, and upload required documents. Edwards AFB has unique access requirements due to its remote location and mission, so coordinate with your sponsor and the base Transportation Office early. You are entitled to Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) to offset hotel costs while house-hunting, and Dislocation Allowance (DLA) to help with relocation expenses. Check current rates and requirements before you move. Early planning and using official resources will ease your transition to Edwards AFB.
Temporary Lodging Information
Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) allowance
PCS Tips
- Request a sponsor as soon as you receive orders.
- Contact the Edwards TMO early to book your move date.
- Keep all PCS documents, orders, and receipts in a safe, accessible folder.
- Understand your weight allowance to avoid excess fees.
- Label boxes clearly and take photos of high-value items before packing.
- Book temporary lodging on base or nearby well in advance, especially during summer.
- Plan for the desert climate—pack essentials like water, sun protection, and car emergency kits.
Important Forms & Links
Schedule and manage your move online.
Check current rates for TLE, DLA, and other PCS entitlements.
Guidance and checklists for every stage of your PCS.
Official base arrival information and resources.
Schools & Childcare
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