All military installations, including the Depot, have rules that must be followed for security and to maintain an organized community and lifestyle while on the base. It's all part of the new military lifestyle your son is learning. While at the Depot (MCRD San Diego) you are a guest on a military installation as well as a guest of your future Marine. Your actions on the depot are a direct reflection on your son. Please be courteous and respectful. Please note the following:

Photos and video can be taken on MCRD San Diego, except in recruit training areas - the site of close combat training, the Confidence Course, the site of Basic Warrior Training and inside the recruit training barracks.

There are several places on MCRD San Diego to purchase souvenirs and other Marine Corps memorabilia.

• The Marine Corps Exchange (department store) has a large selection of items for civilians to shop in. Without a Department of Defense ID card, however, civilians are limited to that section. The Exchange is located across the street from the Command Museum.
• The 7-Day Store is a gas station and convenience store. Civilians may shop but cannot purchase tobacco products or alcoholic beverages.
• The Museum Gift Shop is located inside the Command Museum.

You will not be given a "pass" or other document to access the Depot (MCRD San Diego). If you are driving a vehicle, you must present three documents to the MP (Military Policeman/Policewoman) to be allowed on the Depot:

• a valid driver's license
• vehicle registration (for rental cars, a copy of the contract you signed at the rental agency)
• proof of automobile insurance

All driving rules and regulations are STRICTLY ENFORCED!

• All vehicles must stop at the front gate.
• The speed limit on base is 20 Miles Per Hour; do not exceed it.
• Turn signals must be used 100 feet before turning.
• Seatbelts must be worn at all times.
• All children 5 years of age or younger must be secured in a child safety seat.
• Cell phone use while driving is prohibited unless phone is a hands-free device.
• Do not park on grass or in any reserved parking space, including curbs painted yellow.
• Do not move or circumvent barricades.
• Keep out of all restricted areas.

After you have checked in at the gate, the MP will direct you to the appropriate depot facilities.

For all passengers of vehicles, including hotel shuttles, the following applies:

• All persons entering the MCRD are subject to search and seizure of illegal substances.
• Weapons of any type, alcohol, glass bottles and illegal drugs or paraphernalia are strictly prohibited on base.
• All bags, packs, camera bags and personal property will be searched. Guests are encouraged to limit baggage brought into the MCRD. This will facilitate expeditious entry.
• Entry into the MCRD constitutes consent to search of personnel and the property under their control, pursuant to internal security act of 1950, section 21, 50 u.s.c. 797 (1979).
• The MCRD is an active military base. Due to national security concerns, any jokes or references will be treated seriously and will result in eviction from the base and possible arrest.