SHAW AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. -- The 20th Security Forces Squadron is charged with protecting Shaw Air Force Base, which includes making sure visitors, to include delivery drivers, have the ability to gain access to base when needed in a safe and controlled manner.
So, how can drivers gain access to base if they don't have a military common access card? Here's the process.
The first step is to visit the Visitor Control Center at 1000 Shaw Dr., Building 9. This can be done at any time during duty hours, Monday - Friday from 7:30 am - 4:30 pm. Once there, the driver should request a background check and show their REAL ID compliant driver's license. If they don't have a REAL ID compliant license, they will need a secondary form of federal identification, such as a birth certificate, passport, or Social Security card.
Once the background check is completed, it will remain on file for one year from completion date. This step will not need to be re-accomplished until that year has passed.
The next step varies, depending on what time the order is placed. For deliveries during duty hours, the driver should go to the VCC with their license, and the name, address and phone number of the recipient. VCC personnel will contact that person to ensure they are expecting the delivery, and then write the driver a pass for the duration required to make the delivery.
For deliveries after hours and on weekends, the driver should go to the Main Gate and follow the same process with the gate guard. If no background check was completed prior, the driver will be denied access.
Regardless of the time of the delivery, drivers must use the Main Gate for base entry. However, oversize vehicles will still use the Commercial Gate.
For any questions, contact the VCC at (803) 895-5359.