The National Park Service (NPS) in the United States has introduced stricter guidelines for its annual park passes, warning visitors that altering the 2026 edition by covering former President Donald Trump's image could lead to financial penalties. According to a report by SFGate, the updated rules clarify that defacing the pass in any manner, including placing stickers over portraits, may render it invalid.
Stricter "Void if Altered" Policy Explained
The core of the update revolves around the NPS's "Void if Altered" policy. The service has explicitly stated that adding any stickers, coverings, or writings on the front of an America the Beautiful national parks pass constitutes alteration. This is crucial because such actions can obscure vital security features and information designed to prevent fraud.
Starting January 1, 2026, the annual pass will feature the images of both Donald Trump and George Washington. The NPS policy, as reported, emphasizes that altering the pass in any way is prohibited to maintain its integrity and security.
Potential Consequences for Visitors
Under the revised guidelines, park rangers and staff have been given discretion on how to handle altered passes. The final decision may depend on whether key security elements, like a mountain-shaped foil hologram, remain visible and verifiable.
However, visitors found with a non-compliant pass could face several outcomes:
- Being asked to remove the sticker or covering on the spot.
- Being required to purchase a single-day entry pass for immediate access.
- Having to buy a full-price replacement for the annual pass.
- Potentially facing fines for violating the terms of use.
The report clarifies that the primary goal is to combat pass fraud while ensuring smooth entry for legitimate holders.
Context and Broader Implications
This policy update brings formal clarity to a situation that has been anticipated since the design of the 2026 pass was announced. The inclusion of a contemporary, polarizing figure like Donald Trump alongside the first president was always likely to prompt reactions from some visitors. The NPS guidelines now preemptively address attempts to modify the pass for personal or political reasons.
The move underscores the administrative and security-focused approach of the National Park Service, treating the pass as an official document subject to anti-tampering rules, regardless of the personalities depicted on it. Visitors planning to purchase the 2026 pass are advised to be aware of these terms to avoid unexpected costs or entry issues at park gates.
