NSA Annapolis
NSA Annapolis PCS Guide
Military Base History
ANNAPOLIS, Md. (July 14, 2023) Capt. Homer Denius is relieved by Capt. Christopher Schwarz during Naval Support Activity Annapolis Change of Command in Mahan Hall at the U.S. Naval Academy. The Ceremony was followed by Capt. Denius retirement ceremony. (U.S. Navy photo by Kenneth D. Aston Jr.)
NSA Annapolis serves as a key support installation for the U.S. Navy in Maryland. The base was established to provide essential services to the U.S. Naval Academy, with its original mission focused on logistics, security, and infrastructure support for the Academy and tenant commands.
Over time, the base expanded to include housing, training facilities, and operational support for Navy activities in the region. These additions helped NSA Annapolis meet the growing needs of the Navy and its personnel.
During World War II, NSA Annapolis played a vital role in supporting the rapid expansion of the Naval Academy and the training of midshipmen. The base adapted its facilities to meet wartime needs, including increased housing and logistical operations.
In the Cold War era, NSA Annapolis continued to modernize by integrating advanced security and communications systems. These upgrades supported evolving naval missions and ensured the base remained a strategic asset.
The installation was officially designated as Naval Support Activity Annapolis in 2006, reflecting its broader mission beyond the Naval Academy. Today, it provides base operations support to over 50 tenant commands, including:
- Naval Academy
- Navy Operational Support Center
- U.S. Naval Research Laboratory Detachment
NSA Annapolis remains a critical hub for Navy operations, education, and research in the Mid-Atlantic region. The base supports both military readiness and the local community, ensuring ongoing mission success.
Major Units & Training Programs
Marine Corps Sgt. Maj. Bryan B. Battaglia, senior enlisted adviser to the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, speaks to sailors and Marines stationed at Naval Support Activity Annapolis, Md., March 22, 2013. Base personnel support operations and training for the midshipmen of the U.S. Naval...
Major Units
U.S. Naval Academy
The U.S. Naval Academy educates and trains future officers for commissioning primarily into the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps, focusing on leadership, academics, and physical development.
Naval Support Activity Annapolis
NSA Annapolis provides installation support services to the U.S. Naval Academy and other tenant commands, ensuring operational readiness and quality of life for assigned personnel.
Training Schools
U.S. Naval Academy (Midshipman Training)
Overview
Comprehensive four-year program covering academics, military leadership, physical fitness, and professional development for future naval officers.
Course Length
4 years
Who Attends
Naval Academy midshipmen (officer candidates)
Arrival & In-Processing
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Welcome to NSA Annapolis! Arriving at a new installation can be a big step for you and your family. Being prepared with the right documents and understanding the check-in process helps ensure a smooth start. For more details, visit the official NSA Annapolis website.
NSA Annapolis is primarily accessed through the Main Gate, located near the heart of the installation. The Main Gate operates 24/7 for authorized personnel. Be ready to present a valid Military ID, CAC, or other approved credentials at all times. State driver's licenses must comply with the REAL ID Act for access. All vehicles are subject to 100% ID checks and random inspections, in line with current security measures. If you need to sponsor a visitor or family member, stop at the Visitor Control Center just outside the Main Gate to obtain a temporary pass. All guests must be accompanied by a sponsor and present valid photo identification.
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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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Housing Assignment or Application
NSA Annapolis offers a sponsor program to help new arrivals settle in. Contact your gaining unit or the Command Sponsor Coordinator to request a sponsor before your move. Your sponsor will provide guidance, answer questions, and assist with your transition.
Formal in-processing takes place at the Welcome Center, located near the main administrative area of NSA Annapolis. The Welcome Center typically operates Monday through Friday, 0800 to 1600. You will check in with Personnel Support, Finance, Housing, and Medical offices. Plan for the process to take 2 to 3 business days, depending on your needs and appointment availability.
The Visitor Control Center (VCC) is located just outside the Main Gate at NSA Annapolis. The VCC is open Monday through Friday, 0600 to 1800, and closed on weekends and federal holidays. Services include issuing visitor passes, DBIDS registration, and processing guest sponsorships. All visitors must be sponsored by an authorized base member.
PCS & Relocation Essentials
Military spouse Valerie McNulty says the use of a GPS tracker placed in her household goods during her Family’s recent permanent change of station made national news headlines, and led to conversations with top Department of Defense officials about bettering PCS experiences.
NSA Annapolis welcomes incoming service members and families with a straightforward PCS process. Once you receive your orders, contact the base Transportation Office to begin planning your move. You’ll choose between a Household Goods (HHG) shipment, where movers pack and transport your items, or a Personally Procured Move (PPM/DITY), where you move your belongings and may receive reimbursement. Most personnel use the Defense Personal Property System (DPS) to schedule and track their move. Registering in DPS early helps secure your preferred moving dates and ensures your entitlements are processed on time. Entitlements like Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) and Dislocation Allowance (DLA) help offset costs during your transition. TLE reimburses you for lodging and meals when you arrive, while DLA helps with relocation expenses. Review your allowances and keep receipts for all costs. NSA Annapolis is located in a high-demand area near the U.S. Naval Academy, so book temporary lodging as early as possible. Local traffic and parking can be tight, so plan your arrival for off-peak hours if possible. For detailed guidance, visit the base’s official website or contact the Transportation Office directly.
Temporary Lodging Information
Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) allowance
PCS Tips
- Request a sponsor early to help with local info and housing.
- Book temporary lodging as soon as you receive orders—Annapolis fills up fast.
- Keep all PCS documents and receipts with you during travel.
- Use DPS to track your HHG shipment in real time.
- Label boxes clearly with your name and new address.
- Plan for pet boarding or lodging; some local hotels have restrictions.
- Arrive during off-peak hours to avoid traffic near the Naval Academy.
Important Forms & Links
Schedule and manage your move through DPS.
Check current rates and entitlements for PCS moves.
Comprehensive PCS planning tools and support.
Learn about DLA eligibility and rates.
Installation-specific resources and newcomer information.