Eglin AFB
Eglin AFB PCS Guide
Base History & Name
Image Unavailable
Eglin Air Force Base began in 1935 as the Valparaiso Bombing and Gunnery Base, supporting the Army Air Corps' need for a year-round training site. Its Florida location provided ideal weather and vast, undeveloped land for testing and training.
World War II drove rapid expansion, transforming Eglin into a major center for armament development and testing. The base played a key role in preparing aircrews and perfecting munitions, including the testing of the famous Doolittle Raid bombs.
During the Cold War, Eglin became a hub for missile and weapons testing, supporting the development of cutting-edge air-delivered munitions. The base hosted critical units like the Air Proving Ground Command and later the Air Force Armament Center.
Its vast ranges enabled large-scale exercises and advanced research in aerial warfare technology. Eglin’s facilities allowed the Air Force to push the boundaries of weapons development and operational tactics.
In recent decades, Eglin has evolved into a cornerstone of the Air Force's test and evaluation mission. It is home to the 96th Test Wing, the 33rd Fighter Wing (F-35 training), and the 7th Special Forces Group (Airborne).
The base also supports joint and multinational exercises, reflecting its enduring strategic value. Eglin’s collaborative environment strengthens partnerships and enhances military readiness.
Eglin AFB has retained its name since 1937, when it was renamed to honor Lt. Col. Frederick I. Eglin. Today, it remains one of the largest Air Force installations in the world, driving innovation in weapons testing and supporting the local economy as a major employer in the Florida Panhandle.
Namesake
Major Units & Training Programs
U.S. Air Force 1st Lt. Alexandra King, research analyst with the 28th Test and Evaluation Squadron, builds a prototype sensor using a circuit board during the first-ever Combat Innovation Cohort workshop at Eglin Air Force Base, Fla., March 12, 2025. The workshop aimed to equip Airmen with the...
Major Units
96th Test Wing
Serves as the host unit at Eglin AFB, responsible for developmental test and evaluation of air-delivered weapons, navigation and guidance systems, command and control systems, and Air Force Special Operations Command systems.
33rd Fighter Wing
Conducts training and operational missions with the F-35A Lightning II, preparing pilots and maintainers for fifth-generation fighter operations.
53rd Wing
Leads operational testing and evaluation for Air Force weapons systems, electronic warfare, and avionics, ensuring combat readiness and effectiveness.
Training Schools
F-35 Lightning II Training Program
Overview
Provides initial and advanced training for F-35A pilots and maintainers, focusing on fifth-generation fighter tactics, systems, and maintenance.
Course Length
4-9 months (varies by specialty)
Who Attends
Air Force, Navy, Marine Corps, and allied nation pilots and maintainers
Arrival & In-Processing
The static F-15 Eagle on display outside the Main Gate and Arnold Air Force Base, Tenn., is dedicated to Maj. Jim Duricy. He died April 30, 2002, when he was forced to eject at a high speed as the F-15C he piloted crashed into the Gulf of Mexico. His body was never found. A 12-year test pilot,...
Welcome to Eglin Air Force Base! Arriving at a new installation is an exciting step, and being prepared will help you start smoothly. Review this guide to ensure you have the right documents and understand the base access process. For more detailed information, visit the official Eglin AFB website.
Eglin AFB's main entrance is the West Gate, which serves as the primary access point for most arrivals. The West Gate operates 24/7 for your convenience. Other gates, such as the East and North Gates, have limited hours—check current schedules before arrival. All drivers and passengers must present a valid Military ID, CAC, or an approved visitor pass. State driver's licenses must comply with the REAL ID Act; non-compliant IDs require a secondary form of identification. Expect 100% ID checks at all gates. Security forces may conduct random vehicle inspections to maintain a strong security posture. If you need to sponsor a family member or visitor, stop at the Visitor Control Center outside the West Gate to obtain a pass. Sponsors must be present or provide prior authorization.
-
PCS Orders (multiple copies)
-
Military ID/CAC
-
Driver’s License (REAL ID compliant)
-
Marriage Certificate (if applicable)
-
Birth Certificates (for dependents)
-
Social Security Cards
-
Vehicle Registration & Insurance
-
Medical and Dental Records
Eglin AFB offers a robust sponsor program to help new personnel and families transition smoothly. Contact your gaining unit or the Military Personnel Section to request a sponsor before arrival. Your sponsor will provide local information, answer questions, and assist with check-in procedures.
Formal in-processing is conducted at the Welcome Center, Building 210, located near the West Gate for easy access upon arrival. The Welcome Center operates Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Key steps include check-in with Personnel, Finance, Housing, and Medical offices. Plan for the process to take 2–3 business days, depending on your needs and required briefings.
The Visitor Control Center (VCC) is located just outside the West Gate. The VCC is open Monday through Friday, 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., and Saturdays from 7:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Services include issuing visitor passes, DBIDS registration, and processing guest sponsorships. All visitors must be vetted and accompanied or sponsored by an authorized base member.
PCS & Relocation Essentials
ROBINS AIR FORCE BASE, Georgia – Maj. James Hodgson, Air Force Reserve Center Headquarters (left), checks several packing crates off of his shipping invoice from the moving company for his permanent change of station relocation to Robins Air Force Base, Georgia, Dec. 15, 2021.
Eglin AFB welcomes new arrivals with a streamlined PCS process. Once you receive your orders, contact the Base Transportation Office to discuss your moving options. Most service members choose between a Household Goods (HHG) shipment, where a government-contracted mover transports your belongings, or a Personally Procured Move (PPM), also known as a DITY move, where you handle the move and may receive reimbursement. The Defense Personal Property System (DPS) is your central hub for scheduling and tracking your move—register and start early to avoid delays. You are entitled to Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) reimbursement for up to 10 days at Eglin AFB, helping cover costs while you secure housing. Dislocation Allowance (DLA) provides extra funds to offset relocation expenses. Always keep copies of your orders and receipts, and check entitlements at official DoD sites. Eglin AFB’s location on Florida’s Emerald Coast means high demand in summer—book early and stay in touch with your sponsor for local guidance.
Temporary Lodging Information
Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) allowance
PCS Tips
- Request a sponsor as soon as you get orders.
- Contact the Transportation Office early to schedule your move.
- Book temporary lodging in advance—summer fills up quickly.
- Keep important documents (orders, IDs, receipts) with you.
- Take photos of high-value items before packing.
- Understand your weight allowance to avoid extra charges.
- Plan for pets—review Eglin AFB pet policies and local kennels.
Important Forms & Links
Register and manage your PCS move online.
Find current TLE, DLA, and per diem rates.
Guides, checklists, and support for your PCS.
Official base arrival and in-processing details.
Schools & Childcare
Image Unavailable
Childcare Options
Eglin Child Development Center (CDC)
Eglin Youth Center
Family Child Care (FCC) Program
Local Schools
Okaloosa County School District
Niceville High School
Lula J. Edge Elementary School
Space-A Travel & Passenger Terminal
Terminal Contact Information
Terminal Location
Eglin AFB, FL Passenger Terminal.
Please verify the exact building number, operating hours, and directions upon arrival or by contacting the terminal directly using the information provided.
Terminal Amenities
Waiting Area
Comfortable seating and designated family space.
Wi-Fi Access
Free wireless internet for passengers.
Snack Bar/Vending
Light snacks and beverages available for purchase.
Children’s Play Area
Safe play area for young children while waiting for flights.
Space-A Eligibility & Signup
For detailed Space-Available (Space-A) travel eligibility requirements and the most current sign-up procedures for flights from Eglin AFB, FL, please refer to the official Air Mobility Command (AMC) website or contact the passenger terminal directly.
Information can typically be found regarding travel categories (DoD Categories I-VI), necessary documentation (e.g., CAC, leave forms, dependent IDs), and any specific local policies.
Official AMC information may be available here: https://www.amc.af.mil/AMC-Travel-Site/Terminals/CONUS-Terminals/Eglin-AFB-Passenger-Terminal/
It's always recommended to confirm details well in advance of your intended travel dates.
Common Destinations
Joint Base Charleston, SC
Arrive early for roll call as seats fill quickly due to high demand.
Andrews AFB, MD (Washington D.C. area)
Plan for possible delays; ground transportation options are plentiful in the D.C. area.
Ramstein AB, Germany
Bring valid passports for all travelers; these flights are popular and fill up fast.