Summary
Introduction to the Empire Pass
If you enjoy driving in Long Island and other regions of New York State, you can enhance your experience by purchasing a New York State Empire Pass. This pass allows access to parks, beaches, and forest preserves, offering a cost-effective solution for frequent visitors. Instead of paying a fee each time, this pass provides a flat fee that can lead to substantial savings.
The Empire Pass acts as an unlimited day pass for vehicular access to a significant number of New York State’s 180 state parks and over 55 Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Forest Preserve areas. It also grants access to most boat launch sites, arboretums, seashores, and park preserves. The state offers a detailed list of locations where the Empire Pass is accepted.
With an Empire Pass, you can bring as many friends or family members as you desire in your vehicle, making it an excellent choice for group outings.
The Empire Pass Card
Unlike previous versions that required a window sticker for your vehicle, you’ll receive a wallet-sized Empire Pass card that can be shared within a household or extended family. This family-oriented alternative is not tied to a specific vehicle, allowing flexibility in usage. The card’s portability means anyone the cardholder designates can use it, while decals for vehicles are no longer issued.
New York State provides comprehensive guidelines on using Empire Pass Cards and addresses frequently asked questions regarding replacement, volume sales, and other essential details.
Empire Passes are available for various durations: one year, multi-year, or lifetime, with fees subject to change. It is advisable to check the website for the most current pricing.
Annual and Multi-Year Passes
To purchase an annual or multi-year pass, you have several options:
- Order online
- Order by phone: Credit card orders can be processed through any NYS Parks regional office or by calling 518-474-0458 during regular business hours
- Order by mail: Complete an application with a check or money order (do not send cash) payable to “NYS Parks.” Mail to:
- Empire Pass
- New York State Parks
- Albany, NY 12238
Lifetime Pass Option
The Lifetime Empire Pass is a perfect solution for avid park-goers. Issued by the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles, it appears as an icon on your New York State driver license, non-driver ID, or learner permit. This eliminates the need for a separate card. The Lifetime Empire Pass offers greater discounts for day-use vehicle entry compared to the annual or multi-year options, accompanied by all the same benefits. With no expiration date, you can enjoy the parks for a one-time fee. If you are not a New York resident, you can still purchase a lifetime Empire Pass, provided you obtain a non-driver New York State ID card from the state Department of Motor Vehicles. You can apply online for this pass.
‘I Love NY Parks’ License Plates
New York State Parks has partnered with the Department of Motor Vehicles to offer three distinct “I Love NY Parks” license plate designs. A set of license plates (front and back) is available free to Lifetime Pass holders, while they can also be purchased by those with single-year or multi-year passes. For further information, visit the NYS Department of Motor Vehicles.
