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What items are prohibited from The White House?
To take a public tour of The White House, it's important to know what items could keep you from participating. Backpacks, purses and handbags are not allowed inside, so it's important to plan accordingly. Strollers, food and drinks, tobacco products, video cameras and personal grooming items (lotions, makeup) are also not permitted. As of July 2015, guests are now allowed to carry smartphones and compact cameras with them during the tour.
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What documents do I need in order to visit?
Along with the items not to bring, there's also items you must present in order to tour The White House. To gain admittance, visitors must present a valid, government-issued identification card, such as a drivers license, military I.D. or identification card. A valid United States passport and other official, government-issued passports are also acceptable.
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How do I schedule a White House Tour?
Public tour requests must be submitted through one's Member of Congress. These self-guided tours are available from 7:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Tuesday through Thursday, 7:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays (excluding federal holidays or unless otherwise noted). Tour hours will be extended when possible based on the official White House schedule. Tours are scheduled on a first come, first served basis. Requests can be submitted up to three months in advance and no less than 21 days in advance. You are encouraged to submit your request as early as possible as a limited number of spaces are available. All White House tours are free of charge. (Please note that White House tours may be subject to last minute cancellation.)
