NSA Hampton Roads
NSA Hampton Roads PCS Guide
Military Base History
250228-N-KC192-1026 PORTSMOUTH, Va. (Feb. 28, 2024) Rear Adm. Kevin Brown, commander, Naval Medical Forces Atlantic (NMFL), and director, Defense Health Network (DHN) - Atlantic, presents Richard Johnston, a management analyst at NMFL, with a Civilian Service Achievement Medal during a joint DHN...
NSA Hampton Roads acts as a central administrative and support hub for the U.S. Navy in Virginia’s Hampton Roads region. The installation was created to consolidate Navy command headquarters and support activities, improving coordination and efficiency.
Its location in Norfolk, a city with a deep naval tradition, made it the ideal site for centralizing Navy operations on the East Coast.
Key expansions took place in the late 20th and early 21st centuries. The base grew as the Navy restructured its shore commands, especially after the 2005 Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) recommendations.
NSA Hampton Roads absorbed several tenant commands, including the headquarters for U.S. Fleet Forces Command, Allied Command Transformation (NATO), and Navy Region Mid-Atlantic. These changes established its role as a nerve center for national and international naval operations.
During major conflicts like the Cold War and the Global War on Terror, NSA Hampton Roads played a vital role in strategic planning and command. The base provided essential support to deployed forces and served as a communications and logistics hub.
Its proximity to Naval Station Norfolk, the world’s largest naval base, further increased its strategic importance.
The installation’s name has changed over time. Previously called Naval Support Activity Norfolk, it was officially renamed NSA Hampton Roads in 2011 to better reflect its regional mission and broad support functions.
Today, NSA Hampton Roads continues to provide vital services—administrative, security, and logistical—to dozens of tenant commands, supporting both military operations and the local community.
Major Units & Training Programs
250506-N-KC192-1010 PORTSMOUTH, Va. (May 6, 2025) Capt. Ebony Ferguson, the operations department head assigned to Naval Medical Forces Atlantic (NMFL), has her hands prayed over by Capt. William Hlavin, the regional chaplain assigned to NMFL, during a blessing of the hands ceremony held during...
Major Units
U.S. Fleet Forces Command (USFFC)
USFFC provides operational and administrative control of U.S. Navy forces, ensuring they are ready to deploy and support global missions. The command sets training and readiness standards for the fleet.
U.S. Navy Reserve Forces Command (NAVRESFORCOM)
NAVRESFORCOM manages the training and mobilization of Navy Reserve units and personnel, supporting Navy missions worldwide. It ensures reservists are prepared for integration with active-duty forces.
Naval Information Forces (NAVIFOR)
NAVIFOR delivers trained information warfare forces to operational commanders, focusing on intelligence, cyber, electronic warfare, and communications. The command ensures information dominance for the fleet.
Training Schools
Navy Information Warfare Training
Overview
Provides specialized training in information warfare disciplines, including cyber operations, intelligence, and electronic warfare. Courses focus on preparing sailors for advanced technical and operational roles.
Course Length
Varies by course (2-12 weeks)
Who Attends
Enlisted sailors and officers in information warfare specialties
Arrival & In-Processing
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Welcome to NSA Hampton Roads! Arriving at a new installation is an exciting time, and being well-prepared ensures your check-in goes smoothly. Review the following steps to streamline your arrival and get settled quickly. For more details and updates, visit the official NSA Hampton Roads website.
NSA Hampton Roads features several main gates, with the most commonly used entrance located near the installation's central area. The primary gate operates 24/7, ensuring access at all hours for authorized personnel. All entrants must present a valid Military ID, CAC, or DoD-issued credential. State driver's licenses must comply with the REAL ID Act—non-compliant IDs require a secondary form of identification. Expect 100% ID checks and random vehicle inspections as part of the base's robust security posture. To obtain a visitor or family member pass, report to the Visitor Control Center before attempting entry. Sponsors must accompany guests and provide proper documentation for approval.
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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 (lease or assignment)
NSA Hampton Roads offers a sponsor program to help incoming personnel transition smoothly. To request a sponsor, contact your gaining command or unit prior to arrival. They will assign a representative to guide you through the process and answer any questions.
Formal in-processing takes place at the Welcome Center, typically located near the main administrative area of NSA Hampton Roads. Operating hours are Monday through Friday, 0730 to 1600. Key steps include check-in with Personnel Support Detachment, Finance, Housing, Medical, and your assigned unit. Plan for the process to take 2-3 business days, depending on your specific needs and documentation.
The Visitor Control Center (VCC) is located just outside the Main Gate. It is open Monday through Friday, 0600 to 1800, and Saturday, 0800 to 1200. The VCC issues visitor passes, registers DBIDS cards, and assists with guest sponsorship procedures. All visitors must be vetted and accompanied by their sponsor for access approval.
PCS & Relocation Essentials
Then-Pfc. Justin Enzenbacher, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), Fort Campbell, Kentucky, places his pub Ludo into his car for a ride in April 2022. Taking steps to prepare for a long road trip associated with a permanent change of station can reduce stress during a PCS move. (Photo by Ethan Steinquest)
When you receive PCS orders to NSA Hampton Roads, start by reviewing your official orders and contacting the base Transportation Office. Use the Defense Personal Property System (DPS) at move.mil to schedule your move and track your shipment. Choose between a Household Goods (HHG) shipment, where the government arranges movers, or a Personally Procured Move (PPM), also known as a DITY move, where you move yourself and may receive reimbursement. Both options require careful planning and documentation.
Temporary Lodging Information
Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) allowance
PCS Tips
- Request a sponsor as soon as possible for local insight.
- Keep all PCS orders and important documents in a carry-on bag.
- Take photos of your belongings before pack-out.
- Label boxes with your name and new address.
- Check pet regulations and book kennels early if needed.
- Avoid peak moving season (summer) for better scheduling.
- Contact the Transportation Office if you have oversized or special items.
Important Forms & Links
Access the Defense Personal Property System to schedule and track your move.
Find official rates and allowance information for PCS moves.
Get relocation support, counseling, and resources for service members and families.
Estimate your DLA entitlement for your PCS move.
Review local base information and newcomer resources.