Can Anyone Go to a Commissary? Understanding Access and Eligibility

Commissaries have long been a cornerstone of military life, offering a unique grocery shopping experience to service members and their families. With competitive prices, quality products, and a connection to military culture, the commissary system is more than just a place to buy food—it’s a benefit earned through service. But the question remains: Can anyone go to a commissary? While the answer may seem simple at first glance, eligibility is nuanced and often misunderstood. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore who can and cannot shop at a commissary, the rules governing access, and the reasons behind these restrictions—all while offering valuable insight for military personnel, veterans, and concerned families.

What Is a Commissary?

Before diving into eligibility, it’s important to understand what a commissary actually is. A commissary is a subsidized grocery store operated by the Defense Commissary Agency (DeCA), an agency of the United States Department of Defense. These stores are primarily located on U.S. military installations, both domestically and overseas, and offer a wide variety of groceries, household goods, and specialty food items at prices that are often significantly lower than civilian supermarkets.

The commissary system traces its roots back to the American Civil War, when the U.S. Army established “post exchanges” and commissaries to ensure soldiers had access to nutritious and affordable food. Over time, the model evolved into a benefit system to support military readiness and morale by reducing the cost of living for service members.

Commissaries differ from typical grocery stores not only in pricing but also in their non-profit status. All revenue from commissary sales goes back into the operation and modernization of the network. In addition, they are partially subsidized by taxpayer funds and Department of Defense appropriations, which allows them to maintain lower prices.

Who Is Eligible to Shop at a Commissary?

Access to commissaries is not open to the general public. It is a privilege granted only to specific groups of individuals connected to the U.S. military. The rules are set and enforced by DeCA and verified through military identification cards.

Active-Duty Service Members

The primary group eligible for commissary access includes active-duty uniformed service members from all branches of the U.S. Armed Forces:

• Army
• Navy
• Air Force
• Marine Corps
• Space Force
• Coast Guard (when operating under the Department of the Navy)
• National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Commissioned Officer Corps
• U.S. Public Health Service (USPHS) Commissioned Corps

These individuals must possess a valid military ID—specifically a Common Access Card (CAC) or a Uniformed Services Identification and Privilege Card (USID)—to gain entry.

Reservists and National Guard Members

Members of the Reserve and National Guard components are eligible to shop at commissaries, but their access can depend on their status:

• Drilling reservists (those actively fulfilling training requirements)
• National Guard members on active duty or training orders

When not on active duty, many reservists and guardsmen retain commissary privileges provided they have a valid ID and are in good standing. However, policies can vary slightly based on installation and local commands.

Retired Military Personnel

Veterans who have retired from active military service after 20 years or more of qualifying service are among the most consistent beneficiaries of commissary access. Known as retirees, these individuals continue to receive a range of military benefits, including commissary shopping.

To maintain access, retired personnel must present a Retired Reserve ID card or a Department of Defense (DoD) retiree card along with their Defense Eligibility Reporting System (DEERS) registration, which verifies their eligibility.

Spouses and Dependents of Service Members

A critical component of the commissary system is support for service families. Spouses of active-duty, retired, and certain reserve service members, as well as their dependent children, can shop freely at military commissaries.

Eligibility for dependents depends on DEERS registration status. Children under 21, or under 23 if enrolled full-time in college, are generally covered. In the case of a service member’s death, surviving spouses and dependents may retain benefits—including commissary access—under certain conditions.

Disabled Veterans and Purple Heart Recipients

An important expansion of commissary access came in 2017, when Congress passed legislation allowing certain veterans who are not retired but have disabilities or were awarded the Purple Heart to shop at commissaries. To qualify:

• Veterans must have a service-connected disability rating of 10% or higher as determined by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).
• Recipients of the Purple Heart medal, regardless of disability rating.
• Former prisoners of war (POWs).

These individuals must register in DEERS and obtain a veteran health identification card (VHIC) or equivalent to verify eligibility.

Medal of Honor Recipients and Certain Caregivers

In a special provision, recipients of the Medal of Honor—the U.S. military’s highest award for valor—are granted lifetime commissary privileges, regardless of age, rank, or retirement status.

Additionally, under the Caregivers and Dependents Assistance Program, certain primary family caregivers designated by the VA for seriously injured service members may also have access to commissaries. This access helps support caregivers managing the daily needs of veterans recovering from service-related injuries.

Verification Procedures at the Commissary Gate

Regardless of eligibility category, everyone must verify their status at the entrance of each commissary. This process involves:

• Presenting a valid military ID card or VHIC.
• Scanning the card at the automated kiosk or checking with security personnel.
• Entry may be denied if DEERS records are not current or if the ID is expired or invalid.

Modern commissaries use electronic verification systems to streamline access, reducing wait times and preventing unauthorized entry.

Who Cannot Go to a Commissary?

Despite the range of eligible individuals, many people assume they can walk into any military commissary, especially when stationed near large bases. However, the following groups are typically not eligible for commissary access unless they fall into one of the approved categories:

Civilian Employees and Contractors

While tens of thousands of civilians work on military bases—ranging from administrative staff to defense contractors—most do not have access to commissaries. Their eligibility does not extend from their employment status alone.

There are exceptions:

• Civilians with dual status (e.g., retired military) may shop if using their military ID.
• DoD civilians stationed overseas may have access under special agreements depending on location and mission requirements.

General Public and Friends of Service Members

Your neighbor, buddy from college, or even a well-meaning relative cannot accompany a service member into the commissary unless they are a verified dependent or eligible family member.

The idea of “guest passes” or temporary access for civilians is largely a myth. While some families may invite friends onto base for events, this does not transfer to commissary shopping privileges.

Non-Military Veterans Without Qualifying Status

Many veterans honorably discharged after less than 20 years of service often ask if they can shop at commissaries. The answer is typically no—unless they meet the criteria for disability, Purple Heart, Medal of Honor, or POW status.

This limitation often surprises veterans, especially if they served during wartime or in combat zones. However, commissary access is not tied to the nature of service but to specific eligibility categories established by federal law.

Commissary Access During Emergencies and Natural Disasters

One noteworthy exception to standard access rules occurs during national emergencies or regional crises, such as hurricanes, wildfires, or pandemics.

During these times, the Department of Defense or local base commanders may temporarily expand commissary access to:

• First responders
• Emergency personnel stationed on or near the base
• Local military retirees and veterans, regardless of exact eligibility, to ensure continuity of food supply

Such provisions are temporary and not a permanent expansion of privileges. They are intended to support mission readiness and community welfare during extraordinary circumstances.

The Role of DEERS in Commissary Eligibility

Central to maintaining accurate commissary access is the Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System (DEERS). This database tracks eligibility for all military benefits, including healthcare, exchange privileges, and commissaries.

It is the responsibility of service members and retirees to ensure their information in DEERS is up to date. This includes:

• Updating marital status
• Adding or removing dependents
• Verifying retirement or disability status

Failure to maintain accurate DEERS records can result in denied access at the commissary, even if someone is otherwise eligible.

How to Register or Update Your Status in DEERS

Accessing DEERS requires in-person or online visits:

• Visit a RAPIDS (Real-Time Automated Personnel Identification System) site on base.
• Provide required documents (birth certificates, marriage licenses, VA disability letters, etc.).
• Request ID cards and ensure commissary access is flagged in your profile.

For retirees and veterans with disabilities, the VA and DoD have coordinated some online verification tools through the eBenefits portal and the milConnect website.

Commissary Access Overseas

For service members stationed abroad, commissary access remains a vital benefit. Overseas commissaries are typically located on U.S. military installations in countries such as Japan, Germany, South Korea, Italy, and Bahrain.

While the same eligibility rules apply, shopping at overseas commissaries offers certain advantages:

• Larger selection of American brand-name goods
• Imported or duty-free items
• Consistently lower prices compared to local civilian markets (especially in high-cost countries)

However, access can be more restricted due to security concerns and limited capacity. Some overseas commissaries use appointment systems or limit hours to manage demand.

Changes in Commissary Policy Over the Years

The rules governing commissary access have not remained static. Over the past two decades, several key changes have shaped today’s eligibility landscape:

2004 Expansion: Survivor Benefits Improvements

Following advocacy by military support groups, commissary privileges were extended to surviving spouses of service members who died on active duty or due to service-connected causes. This helped ensure continued financial support during a difficult transition.

2017 Legislation: Expanded Veteran Access

With the enactment of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2017, Congress mandated that veterans with VA-rated service-connected disabilities, including Purple Heart recipients, be granted full commissary access.

This was a landmark change, recognizing the long-term sacrifices made by wounded warriors and extending benefits beyond just retirement.

Recent Digital and Logistical Upgrades

From 2020 onward, many commissaries have adopted:

• Self-checkout kiosks
• Digital coupons and loyalty programs (via the commissary app)
• Curbside pickup and limited delivery

These innovations have helped improve convenience—especially for older retirees and disabled veterans living off base.

Why Are Commissaries Restricted to Eligible Individuals?

The commissary system is not merely a convenience store—it is a strategic benefit with important economic and military implications.

Financial and Taxpayer Support

Commissaries receive partial subsidies from the federal government. This means taxpayer dollars help keep prices low. As such, access is restricted to those who have earned these benefits through service.

Allowing unrestricted access could strain the subsidy model, increase costs, and reduce service quality.

Base Security and Operational Control

Military bases are secure installations. Controlling who enters—and for what purpose—ensures the safety of service members, their families, and critical infrastructure. Commissaries, located inside base perimeters, are part of this security ecosystem.

Supporting Military Morale and Readiness

Affordable groceries directly impact a service member’s quality of life. By reducing household expenses, the commissary helps maintain high morale, financial stability, and, ultimately, mission readiness—especially in high-cost locations or during long deployments.

Commissary vs. Exchange: Understanding the Difference

Many people confuse commissaries with military exchanges (like the BX, PX, or NEX). While both are military-operated and offer discounted goods, they differ in critical ways:

While commissaries receive more direct government funding, exchanges operate as self-sustaining enterprises, which allows for slightly expanded access—even to some honorably discharged veterans with no disability.

How to Find a Commissary Near You

Eligible individuals can use several tools to locate the nearest commissary:

• DeCA’s official website: Features a store locator with hours, services, and special events.
• The commissary mobile app: Offers digital coupons, inventory lookup, and real-time wait times.
• Base visitor centers: Can provide directions and access information.

It’s advisable to check operating hours in advance, especially overseas or during holidays.

Conclusion: Access Is a Privilege, Not a Right

While the commissary offers tremendous value and convenience, it remains an earned benefit—not an open service for the public. Can anyone go to a commissary? The answer is a firm no, unless they meet specific criteria tied to military service, retirement, disability, or family dependency.

This structure ensures that the system remains sustainable, equitable, and focused on supporting those who have served or are currently serving our nation. For eligible individuals, the commissary is more than just a grocery store; it’s a tangible expression of gratitude and a cornerstone of military support.

If you believe you qualify but have been denied access, the first step is always to verify your status in DEERS and obtain proper identification. By staying informed and compliant with regulations, service members, retirees, veterans, and their families can continue to enjoy one of the most valuable non-monetary benefits the military offers.

Who is eligible to shop at a military commissary?

Active-duty service members, retirees, and their dependents are among the primary groups eligible to shop at military commissaries. This includes individuals serving in the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, Space Force, Coast Guard, Commissioned Corps of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), and the U.S. Public Health Service (USPHS). Eligibility also extends to members of the Reserve and National Guard when they are on active duty or during specific training periods.

In addition to active and retired personnel, surviving spouses of service members who died while on active duty or as a result of a service-connected disability are permitted access. Medal of Honor recipients and certain Purple Heart recipients also qualify, regardless of whether they are retired. Individuals may be required to present a valid military ID card, such as a Common Access Card (CAC) or a Dependent ID, to verify eligibility upon entry.

Can veterans without a service-connected disability shop at a commissary?

Generally, veterans who have not retired from military service and do not have a service-connected disability are not eligible to shop at military commissaries. Commissary access has historically been a benefit reserved for active-duty personnel, retirees, and specific categories of family members or honorably distinguished individuals. The Department of Defense (DoD) maintains strict eligibility guidelines to ensure benefits are targeted to those with ongoing military affiliations.

However, there are certain exceptions. Veterans who are 100% disabled due to service-connected conditions, as determined by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), may shop at commissaries. Additionally, some Gold Star family members and caregivers enrolled in the VA’s Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers may have limited access under specific circumstances. All eligible individuals must present proper identification, such as a Veteran Health Identification Card (VHIC) with a “service-connected” indicator, to gain entry.

Are dependents of active-duty military members allowed to use the commissary?

Yes, dependents of active-duty service members are fully authorized to shop at military commissaries. This includes spouses and children of service members from all branches of the U.S. Armed Forces. Dependents must carry a valid military dependent ID card, which serves as proof of their relationship to the sponsor and confirms their eligibility for commissary benefits.

It is important that dependents present their ID each time they visit, as access is not guaranteed without proper documentation. In most cases, spouses can shop independently without the service member being present. Children under the age of 10 do not require their own ID if accompanied by an eligible adult, but older dependents must carry their own cards. These rules help maintain the integrity of the benefit while supporting military families.

Can I use my military ID from decades ago to access the commissary?

No, outdated military ID cards are not valid for commissary access, even if they were issued during active service. The Department of Defense maintains current databases and requires individuals to present a valid, up-to-date ID such as a Common Access Card (CAC) or a dependent ID with a current expiration date. Expired IDs are not accepted because they cannot verify real-time eligibility.

Service members who have retired or separated from the military should ensure they have obtained a current retiree ID or other authorized credential. Veterans with qualifying disabilities must carry a Veteran Health Identification Card (VHIC) that displays the appropriate service-connected designation. Individuals with old IDs are encouraged to visit a local ID card office—often located on a military installation or through the Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System (DEERS)—to update their status and obtain proper documentation.

Are National Guard and Reserve members eligible for commissary access?

National Guard and Reserve members are eligible to shop at military commissaries, but only under specific conditions. When activated on federal orders for more than 30 consecutive days, these service members and their dependents can access commissary benefits. This includes both training periods and operational deployments supported by Title 10 or Title 32 orders.

Outside of active duty orders, Reserve and National Guard members generally do not have routine access to commissaries. However, once they retire after completing 20 qualifying years of service, they gain full commissary privileges as military retirees. It’s important for Guard and Reserve personnel to carry appropriate orders or military ID when accessing the store to demonstrate their eligibility during activation periods.

Can caregivers or family members of disabled veterans access the commissary?

In most cases, general family members of disabled veterans cannot access the commissary unless they are officially recognized dependents in the Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System (DEERS). However, primary caregivers enrolled in the VA’s Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers (PCAFC) may receive limited commissary access under the Caregivers Assistance Act. This privilege is extended only to designated caregivers of seriously injured post-9/11 veterans.

To use this benefit, caregivers must be registered in DEERS and possess a formal identification card issued through the caregiver program. Access is not automatic and requires enrollment and verification. The benefit allows caregivers to purchase groceries at cost-effective prices to support the veteran they care for. Caregivers should contact their local VA or military ID office to confirm eligibility and obtain the required documentation.

Is commissary access the same worldwide or does it vary by location?

Commissary access eligibility is standardized by the Department of Defense, meaning the same core rules apply whether the store is located in the United States or overseas. Authorized patrons such as active-duty personnel, retirees, and eligible dependents can shop at any commissary regardless of geographic location, including installations in Europe, the Pacific, and other regions where U.S. military forces are stationed.

However, practical access may be limited by physical location and base security protocols. Not all overseas bases have commissaries, and those that do often restrict base entry to personnel with official military affiliation or approved visitors. Even eligible patrons may need to coordinate base access in advance, particularly in high-security or contingency environments. While eligibility remains uniform, access logistics can vary depending on the host nation, base command policy, and operational requirements.