Portsmouth Naval Shipyard
Portsmouth Naval Shipyard PCS Guide
Military Base History
KITTERY, Maine (Apr 17, 2025) – Secretary of the Navy John Phelan discusses Shipyard Infrastructure Optimization Program (SIOP) with Officer in ChKITTERY, Maine (Apr 17, 2025) – Secretary of the Navy John Phelan discusses Shipyard Infrastructure Optimization Program (SIOP) with Officer in...
Portsmouth Naval Shipyard is one of the oldest continuously operating shipyards in the United States, established in 1800. Its original mission centered on building and maintaining naval vessels, especially wooden warships for the early U.S. Navy. The shipyard’s location at the mouth of the Piscataqua River provided rapid Atlantic access, making it a vital asset for coastal defense and naval readiness.
Throughout the 19th and early 20th centuries, the shipyard expanded its facilities to keep pace with advances in naval technology. During World War I and World War II, it became a major center for submarine construction and repair. The shipyard launched over 70 submarines during World War II, playing a crucial role in the U.S. Navy’s undersea warfare capabilities.
Its workforce swelled to thousands, reflecting the shipyard’s importance to the war effort. This growth underscored the facility’s central role in supporting the Navy during critical periods of conflict.
During the Cold War, Portsmouth Naval Shipyard shifted its focus to the overhaul, repair, and modernization of nuclear-powered submarines. The base continued to adapt, supporting the evolving needs of the U.S. Navy’s submarine fleet.
While the 2005 Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) process considered closing the shipyard, it ultimately remained open due to its unique capabilities and strategic value. Its continued operation highlights its enduring significance to national defense.
Today, Portsmouth Naval Shipyard specializes in the maintenance, repair, and modernization of Los Angeles- and Virginia-class submarines. It remains a major employer in the region and a cornerstone of the Navy’s undersea warfare readiness.
The installation has retained its original name since its founding, with no significant official name changes. This continuity reflects the shipyard’s long-standing tradition and historical importance.
Major Units & Training Programs
KITTERY, Maine (Apr 17, 2025) – Secretary of the Navy John Phelan discusses Shipyard Infrastructure Optimization Program (SIOP) with Officer in ChKITTERY, Maine (Apr 17, 2025) – Secretary of the Navy John Phelan discusses Shipyard Infrastructure Optimization Program (SIOP) with Officer in...
Major Units
Portsmouth Naval Shipyard Command
Responsible for the overall operation, maintenance, and management of the shipyard, focusing on the overhaul, repair, and modernization of U.S. Navy submarines.
Naval Submarine Support Facility (NSSF) Detachment Portsmouth
Provides logistical, technical, and maintenance support to submarines undergoing work at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard, ensuring operational readiness of the fleet.
Training Schools
Shipyard Apprentice Program
Overview
Provides technical and hands-on training for civilian apprentices in ship repair, welding, electrical work, and other skilled trades essential to shipyard operations.
Course Length
4 years
Who Attends
Civilian apprentices hired by Portsmouth Naval Shipyard
Arrival & In-Processing
Protecting the workforce is a top priority at NNSY and the intense summer heat puts everyone at risk for heat exhaustion or stroke. Everyone should be familiar with the Heat Stress Flag Status and that NNSY notifies the workforce regarding “black flag” status via AtHoc alerts, Giant Voice...
Welcome to Portsmouth Naval Shipyard. Careful preparation ensures a smooth arrival and successful check-in for you and your family. Review all requirements before your move to avoid delays or complications. For more details, visit the official Portsmouth Naval Shipyard website.
The main entrance to Portsmouth Naval Shipyard is the Gate 1 Main Gate, located near the base's primary access point. Gate 1 operates 24/7 for authorized personnel. All personnel must present a valid Military ID or Common Access Card (CAC) at entry. State-issued driver's licenses must meet REAL ID Act standards; non-compliant IDs are not accepted for unescorted access. Expect 100% ID checks and random vehicle inspections at all times. The base maintains a high security posture—cooperate fully with security personnel. Visitors and family members require a temporary pass, which can be obtained at the Visitor Control Center after proper vetting and sponsor 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 and Dental Records
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Proof of Housing (if applicable)
Portsmouth Naval Shipyard offers a sponsor program for incoming personnel and families. To request a sponsor, contact your gaining unit or the Command Sponsor Coordinator. Most units assign sponsors automatically, but you may also request one via the base's personnel office or through the official website.
Report to the Welcome Center, typically located in Building 86 near the main gate. In-processing hours are Monday through Friday, 0730–1600. During in-processing, you'll visit Personnel, Finance, Housing, Medical, and your gaining unit. Plan for the process to take 2–3 business days, depending on your situation and required appointments.
The Visitor Control Center (VCC) is located just outside the Main Gate at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard. The VCC is open Monday through Friday, 0600–1800, and closed on weekends and federal holidays. Services include issuing visitor passes, DBIDS registration, and processing guest sponsorships. All visitors must be vetted and sponsored by authorized personnel before access is granted.
PCS & Relocation Essentials
Staff Sergeant Cornel Varnado Jr., 194th Military Police Company, 716th Military Police Battalion, signs for packages May 9 as workers from River City Movers conduct a direct delivery to his home May 9 at Fort Campbell. Varnado was recently reassigned from Germany to Fort Campbell and elected to carry out a government move to transport his Family’s belongings from overseas.
Arriving at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard starts with receiving your official orders. Your first step: contact the base Transportation Office to discuss your move options and get guidance on next steps. Most service members choose between a Household Goods (HHG) shipment—where the government arranges movers—or a Personally Procured Move (PPM), also called a DITY move, where you handle the move and may be reimbursed. You can track and manage your move through the Defense Personal Property System (DPS) at move.mil. This online tool is key for scheduling shipments, uploading documents, and checking the status of your move. Make sure to set up your DPS account as soon as you have orders.
Entitlements like Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) and Dislocation Allowance (DLA) help cover out-of-pocket costs during your PCS. TLE reimburses you for temporary lodging while you search for permanent housing near the shipyard, and DLA helps offset miscellaneous moving expenses. Know your weight allowance and keep receipts for all authorized expenses. Portsmouth Naval Shipyard is located on the Maine/New Hampshire border, so check local housing availability and plan for possible wait times during peak PCS season. Always confirm entitlements and requirements with your gaining command and the Transportation Office to avoid surprises.
Temporary Lodging Information
Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) allowance
PCS Tips
- Request a sponsor early to help with local info and in-processing.
- Keep orders, IDs, and important documents with you—not in shipped HHG.
- Review your weight allowance to avoid excess costs.
- Take photos and inventory your belongings before pack-out.
- Contact the Housing Office as soon as you have orders—wait lists can be long.
- Plan for New England weather—pack essentials for variable conditions.
- Schedule pet travel and lodging early, especially during summer PCS season.
Important Forms & Links
Start, track, and manage your PCS move online.
Check current per diem, mileage, and allowance rates.
Guides, checklists, and support for every stage of your PCS.
Estimate your DLA entitlement for your move.