How can I obtain a visitor pass to access Joint Base Charleston?

Visitors aged 18 and older must obtain a pass from the Visitor Control Center (VCC) by presenting a valid state-issued ID or passport for a background check.

What are the procedures for lost or stolen ID cards?

Report to the Military Personnel Flight to obtain a new ID card. For assistance, contact the MPF at (843) 963-4567.

How do I enroll family members in DEERS?

Sponsors should accompany family members to the DEERS office with required documents. If unavailable, a notarized DD Form 1172-2 or a valid power of attorney is needed.

Are ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft allowed on base?

Drivers must have a valid Joint Base Charleston visitor pass. Without it, they will be turned away, and passengers will need alternative transportation.

What are the regulations regarding firearms on base?

Firearms must be registered per Joint Base Charleston regulations. Unregistered firearms or violations can lead to administrative actions or prosecution.

How do I check in for recreational activities like hunting or fishing?

Use the iSportsman system to register, watch a safety briefing, and check in/out for activities. Permits are purchased online, and check-ins can be done via the website or phone.

What should I do if I encounter military munitions during recreational activities?

Follow the 3Rs: Recognize (don't touch), Retreat (leave the area), and Report (notify Range Control at (843) 963-5530).

How can I get assistance with PCS (Permanent Change of Station) moves?

The Relocation Readiness Program offers support, including welcome packets and counseling. Contact them at the Family Support Office for help.

What are the operating hours for the Visitor Control Center?

The Visitor Center operates Monday–Friday: 7:30 AM–4:30 PM and is closed on weekends and federal holidays. The Main Gate is open 24/7.

Are there educational resources for military families?

Yes, Joint Base Charleston provides educational services, including on-base schools, tutoring programs, and liaison officers to assist families.

What are the contact details for Joint Base Charleston (Air Base)?

The contact phone number for Joint Base Charleston (Air Base) is (843) 963-1110 . The base address is 101 West Hill Blvd, Charleston, SC 29404.

What are the operating hours for the base housing office?

The base housing office at Joint Base Charleston is open Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM. For more information, visit the [housing office](https://www.jbcharleston.jb.mil/).

Where is the commissary located and what are its hours?

The commissary is located at 101 West Hill Blvd, Charleston, SC 29404. It is open Monday through Saturday from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM and closed on Sundays.

What are the hours of operation for the base medical facilities?

The base medical facilities are open Monday through Friday from 7:30 AM to 4:30 PM. The contact number is (843) 963-6700.

What recreational facilities are available at Joint Base Charleston?

The base offers a fitness center, swimming pool, and various outdoor areas. The fitness center is open Monday through Friday from 5:00 AM to 8:00 PM and on weekends from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

Are there any on-base schools at Joint Base Charleston?

There are no on-base schools. However, military families can access local public schools in the Charleston area.

What are some nearby attractions and activities?

Nearby attractions include the Charleston Waterfront Park, South Carolina Aquarium, and historic downtown Charleston. For outdoor activities, visit local parks or beaches.

Where can I find more information about Joint Base Charleston?

Visit the official [Joint Base Charleston website](https://www.jbcharleston.jb.mil/) for more details and updates.

What legal services are available at the base?

The base legal office provides assistance with wills, powers of attorney, and estate planning. Contact them at (843) 963-6502.

How can I access veteran services near the base?

The VA South Carolina Health Care System provides various veteran services. Visit their website or contact them for more information.

About Joint Base Charleston

Joint Base Charleston (Air Base), located in Charleston, South Carolina, is a major U.S. Air Force installation that serves as a critical hub for air mobility and strategic airlift operations.

The base supports a wide range of missions including air cargo and passenger transport, and is home to the 437th Airlift Wing and the 315th Airlift Wing. Joint Base Charleston plays a vital role in providing rapid global mobility and logistics support for military operations worldwide.

If you’re stationed at Joint Base Charleston or planning a move here, our comprehensive guide has everything you need. From housing options both on and off base, to the best things to do in the area, financial resources, and local businesses offering military discounts, this guide is your one-stop resource for everything.

Charleston Guide

Contact Information

Main Phone Number: +1 (843) 963-1110
Housing Office: +1 (843) 963-3858
Health Services Coordinator: +1 (843) 963-6880
Family Support Office: +1 (843) 963-4406
Legal Office: +1 (843) 963-5502

Address: 104 E. Simpson St, Joint Base Charleston, SC 29404, United States

Mission

Joint Base Charleston’s mission is to provide premier installation support, enabling mission readiness and execution for air, land, and sea operations. It hosts over 60 Department of Defense and federal agencies, ensuring comprehensive support for national defense objectives.

History

Established: 1941
Key Historical Facts:
- Originally established as Charleston Army Air Field during World War II.
- Merged with Naval Weapons Station Charleston in 2010 to form Joint Base Charleston, enhancing joint operational capabilities.
- Has played a significant role in various military operations, including airlift missions and naval support.

Location

Coordinates: 32.8986° N, 80.0405° W
Website: Joint Base Charleston Official Website

Hours of Operation

Visitor Center:
- Monday–Friday: 7:30 AM–4:30 PM
- Closed on weekends and federal holidays.
Main Gate: Open 24/7

Base Location and Directions

Driving Directions:
- From Charleston International Airport:
  - Exit the airport onto International Blvd.
  - Merge onto I-526 W toward Savannah.
  - Take Exit 15 for South Carolina 642/Dorchester Rd.
  - Turn left onto Dorchester Rd.
  - Follow signs to Joint Base Charleston Main Gate.

Population

Active Duty Personnel: Approximately 6,000
Civilians and Contractors: Around 3,500
Families and Dependents: Nearly 8,000
Total Population Served: Over 17,500

Housing Options

On-Base Housing: Joint Base Charleston offers on-base housing managed by Balfour Beatty Communities. Housing options include single-family homes, duplexes, and townhomes. For detailed information and to apply for housing, visit the Balfour Beatty Communities Joint Base Charleston page or contact them at +1 (843) 767-3515. The housing office is located at 101 East Hill Blvd, Joint Base Charleston, SC 29404. Office hours are Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM.

Amenities and Services

Commissary and Exchange: The commissary and Exchange are available for grocery shopping and retail needs. The commissary is located at 101 East Hill Blvd, Joint Base Charleston, SC 29404, open Monday through Saturday, 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, and closed on Sundays. The Exchange is also at 101 East Hill Blvd, open Monday through Saturday, 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, and closed on Sundays.
Medical Facilities: The base includes the Joint Base Charleston Medical Group, offering comprehensive healthcare services such as primary care, dental care, and specialty services. The medical group is located at 101 East Hill Blvd, Joint Base Charleston, SC 29404. Office hours are Monday through Friday, 7:30 AM to 4:30 PM. For appointments, call +1 (843) 963-6880.
Recreational Facilities: Joint Base Charleston provides a fitness center, swimming pool, and various outdoor areas. The fitness center is at 101 East Hill Blvd, open Monday through Friday, 5:00 AM to 8:00 PM, and Saturday and Sunday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The swimming pool is open seasonally from Memorial Day to Labor Day.

Education

On-Base Schools: There are no on-base schools. However, military families have access to local public schools through the Charleston County School District.
Off-Base Schools: Military families living off base can enroll their children in public schools within the Charleston County School District. For information on school enrollment and resources, contact the Charleston County School District at +1 (843) 937-6300.

Things to Do Near Joint Base Charleston

Outdoor Activities: Nearby attractions include Magnolia Plantation and Gardens for outdoor exploration and historical tours.
Shopping and Dining: Charleston offers a variety of shopping and dining options. For shopping, visit the Charleston Tanger Outlets, and for dining, explore local favorites like Husk and Fleet Landing Restaurant & Bar.
Cultural Attractions: Charleston features several cultural attractions, including the Charleston Museum and historic sites like Fort Sumter.

Local Support and Resources

Military and Family Support Center: The Airman & Family Readiness Center offers financial counseling, deployment support, and family advocacy services. It is located at 101 East Hill Blvd, Joint Base Charleston, SC 29404. For more information, call +1 (843) 963-8883.
Legal Services: The base legal office provides assistance with wills, powers of attorney, and estate planning. Contact the legal office at +1 (843) 963-3417. It is located at 101 East Hill Blvd, Joint Base Charleston, SC 29404.
Veteran Services: Joint Base Charleston is near the VA South Carolina Health Care System, offering benefits assistance, healthcare, and veteran resources.

Frequently Asked Questions

Question	Answer
How can I obtain a visitor pass to access Joint Base Charleston?	Visitors aged 18 and older must obtain a pass from the Visitor Control Center (VCC) by presenting a valid state-issued ID or passport for a background check.
What are the procedures for lost or stolen ID cards?	Report to the Military Personnel Flight to obtain a new ID card. For assistance, contact the MPF at (843) 963-4567.
How do I enroll family members in DEERS?	Sponsors should accompany family members to the DEERS office with required documents. If unavailable, a notarized DD Form 1172-2 or a valid power of attorney is needed.
Are ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft allowed on base?	Drivers must have a valid Joint Base Charleston visitor pass. Without it, they will be turned away, and passengers will need alternative transportation.
What are the regulations regarding firearms on base?	Firearms must be registered per Joint Base Charleston regulations. Unregistered firearms or violations can lead to administrative actions or prosecution.
How do I check in for recreational activities like hunting or fishing?	Use the iSportsman system to register, watch a safety briefing, and check in/out for activities. Permits are purchased online, and check-ins can be done via the website or phone.
What should I do if I encounter military munitions during recreational activities?	Follow the 3Rs: Recognize (don’t touch), Retreat (leave the area), and Report (notify Range Control at (843) 963-5530).
How can I get assistance with PCS (Permanent Change of Station) moves?	The Relocation Readiness Program offers support, including welcome packets and counseling. Contact them at the Family Support Office for help.
What are the operating hours for the Visitor Control Center?	The Visitor Center operates Monday–Friday: 7:30 AM–4:30 PM and is closed on weekends and federal holidays. The Main Gate is open 24/7.
Are there educational resources for military families?	Yes, Joint Base Charleston provides educational services, including on-base schools, tutoring programs, and liaison officers to assist families.