The Department of the Interior shares short- and long-term operational solutions in a recent stakeholders call
The U.S. Department of the Interior (DOI) recently convened a meeting with Commercial Use Authorization (CUA) stakeholders to provide updates on both immediate and long-term solutions for the implementation of the nonresident entrance fee for commercial tour operators serving 11 of the nation’s most popular national parks:
- Acadia
- Bryce Canyon
- Everglades
- Glacier
- Grand Canyon
- Grand Teton
- Rocky Mountain
- Sequoia & Kings Canyon
- Yellowstone
- Yosemite
- Zion
Currently, nonresident entrance fees remain in effect at $100 per person or $250 for an America the Beautiful (ATB) pass. During the discussion, the National Park Service highlighted ongoing operational challenges associated with the current process, including buses being redirected to alternate purchase locations, increased traffic congestion, guest confusion at park entry points, and inefficiencies for both operators and park staff.
To address these concerns, DOI and the National Park Service (NPS) outlined a short-term operational solution to be implemented in May 2026. The proposed process includes a new commercial vehicle entrance fee calculation form that will allow operators to pre-populate guest information. Tour guides or drivers will then present the completed form at park entry, enabling fee collectors to process transactions more efficiently and reduce delays at entrance stations.
DOI also shared details on a longer-term digital solution expected to launch in June 2026. Under the proposed system, commercial operators and visitors will receive digital ATB passes via email following purchase. Operators will be able to manage purchased passes within an online account prior to arrival at park sites, and a digital PDF confirmation will be generated for drivers or tour guides to present at entry. The system is also expected to allow operators to purchase up to 10 passes within a single transaction, streamlining the process for group travel.
In addition, DOI informed stakeholders that once the long-term system is finalized, NPS will provide resource materials and host instructional webinars to help operators navigate the updated processes and requirements.
These developments are the result of continued advocacy and engagement from ABA to ensure operational concerns are heard and addressed. ABA will continue working closely with NPS, DOI, and congressional leaders to ensure policies and implementation systems work effectively for the commercial tour industry while minimizing disruptions for operators and travelers.