MCRD Parris Island
MCRD Parris Island PCS Guide
Military Base History
U.S. Marines and Sailors from across Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, conduct a physical training event with Medal of Honor recipient, U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Dakota Meyer, on MCRD Parris Island, S.C., May 6, 2025. Meyer, one of the three Marine Corps Medal of Honor recipients during the...
MCRD Parris Island was established in 1915 as a dedicated training facility for the United States Marine Corps. Its original mission was to provide a permanent location for recruit training, centralizing Marine boot camp operations in the eastern United States.
The base’s strategic coastal location in South Carolina allowed for year-round training and easy access to Atlantic shipping lanes. This location made it ideal for supporting Marine operations and logistics.
Throughout its history, MCRD Parris Island has undergone significant expansion. During World War I and especially World War II, the installation rapidly grew to accommodate the surge in Marine recruits.
New barracks, ranges, and support facilities were constructed, transforming the base into a major training hub. At its peak during WWII, tens of thousands of Marines trained here annually, supporting the war effort in both the Pacific and European theaters.
The base has hosted several key units, most notably the Recruit Training Regiment and the Headquarters and Service Battalion. Over the decades, it has adapted its curriculum and infrastructure to meet the evolving needs of the Marine Corps.
In 1949, the base began the integration of female recruits, marking a significant milestone. The Cold War era saw further modernization, ensuring Marines were prepared for new global threats.
Today, MCRD Parris Island remains one of only two Marine Corps recruit depots. It continues to train enlisted Marines from east of the Mississippi River, shaping the Corps’ future leaders.
The base is also a significant economic and cultural presence in the Lowcountry region. Notably, the installation has retained the name "Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island" since its designation in 1915, with no major official name changes recorded.
Major Units & Training Programs
U.S. Marines and Sailors from across Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, conduct a physical training event with Medal of Honor recipient, U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Dakota Meyer, on MCRD Parris Island, S.C., May 6, 2025. Meyer, one of the three Marine Corps Medal of Honor recipients during the...
Major Units
Recruit Training Regiment, MCRD Parris Island
Responsible for the basic training and transformation of Marine recruits into Marines, instilling core values, discipline, and foundational military skills.
Support Battalion, MCRD Parris Island
Provides logistical, administrative, and operational support to ensure the effective functioning of recruit training and overall base operations.
Training Schools
Marine Corps Recruit Training
Overview
Covers basic military skills, physical fitness, marksmanship, Marine Corps history, and values to prepare recruits for service as Marines.
Course Length
13 weeks
Who Attends
New Marine Corps recruits (enlisted)
Drill Instructor School
Overview
Trains selected Marines in leadership, instructional techniques, and recruit training procedures to become certified Drill Instructors.
Course Length
11 weeks
Who Attends
Selected Marines (prospective Drill Instructors)
Arrival & In-Processing
Sgt. William Mularski, a rappelling and Crucible instructor, loads flak vests into a truck with the help of Rct. Monica Jackson, center, and Rct. Sally Nguyen, both with Platoon 4008, November Company, 4th Recruit Training Battalion, during the company’s eighth week of training, known as Team...
Welcome to MCRD Parris Island! Arriving at a new installation is an exciting step in your military journey. Being prepared with the right documents and understanding the check-in process will help ensure a smooth transition for you and your family. For more information, visit the official MCRD Parris Island website.
The main entrance to MCRD Parris Island is the Main Gate, located off Ribaut Road. This gate operates 24/7 to accommodate all arrivals. Be ready to present a valid Military ID, Common Access Card (CAC), or dependent ID for all adults in the vehicle. If using a state-issued driver's license, ensure it meets REAL ID Act standards—non-compliant IDs will not grant access. Expect 100% ID checks and possible random vehicle inspections at entry. Security is strict to protect personnel and assets. Family members and visitors must obtain a pass—sponsors should escort guests to the Visitor Control Center for processing before entering the base.
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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 arranged in advance)
MCRD Parris Island offers a sponsor program to help new arrivals settle in quickly. Request a sponsor through your gaining unit or by contacting the Relocation Assistance Office. Your sponsor will provide local guidance, answer questions, and assist with in-processing steps.
Formal in-processing takes place at the Welcome Center, Building 923, near the Main Gate. Hours are Monday through Friday, 0800–1600. Key steps include Personnel check-in, Finance processing, Housing assignment, Medical and Dental registration, and Unit check-in. Plan for the process to take 2–3 days, depending on your individual requirements and arrival time.
The Visitor Control Center (VCC) is located just outside the Main Gate. It operates Monday through Friday, 0700–1600. The VCC issues visitor passes, registers guests in the DBIDS system, and assists with sponsoring non-DoD visitors. All guests must be accompanied by their sponsor during the pass process.
PCS & Relocation Essentials
Military One Source is the U.S. Transportation Command’s one-stop shop for personal property information and access to systems: https://www.militaryonesource.mil/moving-housing/moving/pcs-and-military-moves . (Courtesy photo)
Arriving at MCRD Parris Island starts with receiving official PCS orders. Service members should contact the base Transportation Office right away to begin planning their move. You’ll choose between a Household Goods (HHG) shipment, where the government arranges movers, or a Personally Procured Move (PPM/DITY), where you handle the move and may receive reimbursement. Use the Defense Personal Property System (DPS) at move.mil to schedule and track your shipment.
Key entitlements include Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) and Dislocation Allowance (DLA). TLE helps offset the cost of temporary lodging while you secure permanent housing, and DLA assists with miscellaneous moving costs. Make sure you keep all receipts and check current rates on the official DoD website. MCRD Parris Island is a high-traffic training installation, so plan early and keep in touch with your sponsor and the Transportation Office throughout your move.
Temporary Lodging Information
Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) allowance
PCS Tips
- Request a sponsor as soon as you receive orders.
- Contact the Transportation Office early to secure your preferred move dates.
- Keep important documents (orders, IDs, receipts) with you during travel.
- Take photos of your belongings before packing.
- Label boxes clearly with your name and destination address.
- Plan for pet accommodations—local kennels fill quickly.
- Check base housing wait times and apply early if needed.
Important Forms & Links
Access the Defense Personal Property System to manage your move.
Find current TLE, DLA, and per diem rates.
Guidance and checklists for every PCS step.
Estimate your Dislocation Allowance.
Official base website for local contacts and newcomer info.
Schools & Childcare
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Families stationed at MCRD Parris Island will find that there are no DoDEA schools on base, so children attend local public schools in the surrounding Beaufort area. The School Liaison Officer (SLO) is a key resource, helping families navigate school enrollment, district boundaries, and special education services. Reach out to the SLO early for guidance on school choices and transition support.
Childcare Options
Child Development Center (CDC) – MCAS Beaufort
The CDC at nearby MCAS Beaufort offers full-day care, part-day preschool, and hourly care. The program is NAEYC-accredited and provides a structured, nurturing environment for young children.
School Age Care (SAC) Program – MCAS Beaufort
SAC provides before and after school care, holiday camps, and summer programs for school-age children. The program focuses on enrichment, homework help, and recreation in a safe setting.
Family Child Care (FCC) Program – MCAS Beaufort
FCC offers in-home care by certified providers, giving families flexible options for full-time, part-time, or hourly care. All providers undergo background checks and receive ongoing training.
Local Schools
Beaufort County School District
Beaufort County School District serves most military families in the area and offers a range of academic and extracurricular programs. The district has earned solid ratings for its diverse offerings and support for military-connected students. Many schools receive above-average reviews on GreatSchools.org.
Whale Branch Early College High School
Whale Branch Early College High School provides students with the chance to earn college credits while completing high school. The school is known for its strong STEM focus and supportive learning environment.
Lady's Island Middle School
Lady's Island Middle School is praised for its dedicated teachers and focus on student achievement. The school offers a variety of academic and arts programs, and parents report a welcoming atmosphere.
Riverview Charter School
Riverview Charter School is a popular K-8 option in Beaufort, known for its project-based learning and strong parent involvement. The school consistently receives high marks for academic growth and community engagement.