CAC- Common Access Card
A Common Access Card (CAC) is your government/military ID card. It will be issued to you during (New Employee Orientation). This is a required document to apply for MSC. Even if you are retired military, you will still receive a new civilian CAC.
The CAC allows you to access military bases and government computers. You will also need to present it at a ship’s gangway to enter or leave a ship. On the back of your CAC is your DOD ID number. This number serves as your employee ID number. This number is also important, as it can be used as your “Trusted Traveler Number”. Your DOD ID enables you to get TSA Pre-Check each time you fly for both official and personal travel.
CACs are crucial for CIVMARs and should be kept secure. They can be renewed at most military bases through the Pass and ID office, although each base has different scheduling policies. Many CIVMARs choose to renew their CACs overseas because overseas CAC offices print your “privileges” directly onto the card.
More details about these privileges are provided below.
Privilege Card
As a CIVMAR, you have access to shop at the Navy Exchange (NEX) and overseas Commissaries.
Navy Exchange (NEX)
The Navy Exchange, or NEX, is a retail store that combines features of Macy’s and Target, located at most Navy bases. Shopping at the NEX is tax-free, making it a great option for purchasing a variety of items, especially when you are overseas and need specific American products.
Commissary
The Commissary is a grocery store for military members. While CIVMARs cannot shop at U.S. Commissaries, you are entitled to shop at overseas Commissaries.
Using Your CAC and Privilege Card
To shop at the NEX or overseas Commissary, you typically need to show your CAC before checking out. In some locations, especially in Norfolk, you may also need to present a privilege card. This card lists your specific privileges, such as NEX and overseas Commissary access.
Obtaining a Privilege Card
Privilege cards are issued and renewed at MSC HQ at Naval Station Norfolk. However, if you are on an overseas assignment and renew your CAC, the overseas CAC office will print your privileges directly on your CAC. Note that stateside CAC offices do not offer this service.
While some cashiers may still ask to see your privilege card even if your CAC has the privileges printed, this is relatively uncommon.
MSC HQ Address: 471 East C Street, Bldg. SP-47, Norfolk, VA 23511-2419
The maritime industry can be unpredictable. Missions, ports, policies and procedures frequently changes, and not having the most up to date information is frustrating. If something we wrote needs an update, or if we missed something important that should be added or highlighted, drop us a line via the form below and we will work to get the information updated as soon as possible! Safe sailing!