Getting onto Naval Station Great Lakes for graduation isn't complicated, but the process changed in recent years and a lot of older advice online is now wrong. Here's exactly how base access and ticketing work today, verified against the official RTC graduation page, so you're not turned away on the biggest morning of your Sailor's boot camp.
Step 1: Your Sailor Submits You in the Guest Ticketing App
Your Sailor selects your name in RTC's online Guest Ticketing App, typically starting around week 3 of training. Guest names must be submitted by the Friday before graduation — names submitted later won't be processed and won't be granted base access. You'll get an automated email once your Sailor selects you, and a second confirming final approval (usually week 8). Double-check your Sailor has your legal name spelled correctly, since only your Sailor can make changes, and the deadline is firm.
Step 2: Pick Up Your Physical Ticket (Off Base)
Everyone attending — including children — must personally pick up a free printed ticket at the Recruit Family Welcome Center, located off base inside the Navy Exchange (NEX) at Burkey Mall, 2650 Green Bay Road, North Chicago, IL 60088. Do not go straight to the base gate without this ticket first.
| When | Welcome Center Hours |
|---|---|
| Day before graduation | 10:00 AM – 7:30 PM |
| Morning of graduation | 5:30 AM – 8:00 AM |
Bring valid ID: a REAL ID-compliant driver's license, a passport, or a military ID for anyone 18+. Minors need a school ID, driver's permit, birth certificate, or Social Security card. Your ticket is not transferable and won't be reissued if lost, so keep it safe once you have it.
How Many Guests Can Attend
Typically 3–4 guests per recruit, depending on how many divisions are graduating that week. Your Sailor will know their exact guest count and picks the names in the Guest Ticketing App — there's no way to add or swap guests once the list locks.
Driving Onto Base
If you're driving rather than walking or being dropped off, have your driver's license, vehicle registration, proof of insurance (or rental agreement), and your graduation ticket ready at the gate. Pedestrians and drop-offs can use the gate next to the METRA station (Gate 8), about a quarter mile from RTC's Visitor Center.
Security & What Not to Bring
Every person, bag, and vehicle is subject to search at the Visitor Center before the ceremony. Small purses, diaper bags, and camera bags are fine; leave backpacks, large bags, posters/signs, large tripods, gift bags, and flowers in the car. Weapons of any kind will be confiscated and can result in arrest on federal property.
Give Yourself Extra Time
Gates open to guests at 6:30 AM, and the drill hall doors close at 9:00 AM sharp when the ceremony begins — no entry after that. Security screening and traffic build up fast because every family arrives at once, so plan to arrive at least 1.5 hours early.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get on the guest list for Navy graduation?
Your Sailor selects your name in RTC's Guest Ticketing App, and names must be submitted by the Friday before graduation. You'll then need to personally pick up a printed ticket at the off-base Recruit Family Welcome Center during the week of graduation — the ticket is required for base entry.
Do I need a ticket to get on Naval Station Great Lakes for graduation?
Yes. Every attendee needs a physical ticket, picked up in person at the Recruit Family Welcome Center (off base, at NEX Burkey Mall) during graduation week. A vehicle gate pass is separate and is only needed if you're driving a car onto base.
Where do I pick up my Navy graduation ticket?
At the Recruit Family Welcome Center inside the Navy Exchange (NEX) Burkey Mall, 2650 Green Bay Road, North Chicago, IL 60088 — this is off base. It's open 10:00 AM–7:30 PM the day before graduation, and 5:30–8:00 AM the morning of graduation.
How many guests can attend Navy boot camp graduation?
Typically 3–4 guests per recruit, depending on the size of the graduating training group. Your Sailor will know the exact number and selects guest names in the Guest Ticketing App.
What ID do I need for Navy graduation?
Every guest 18 and older needs a REAL ID-compliant driver's license, a valid passport, or a military ID. Minors need a school ID, driver's permit, birth certificate, or Social Security card. You'll show ID both at ticket pickup and again at the base gate.