The White House has been the home of democracy since 1800, in countries around the world. Everyone recognises it from films, TV shows and the background of countless television news reports. In this article, we’ll tell you what you need to know to be able to tour the White House.
For security reasons, touring the White House requires plenty of advance planning and a little bit of luck. Requests to tour the White House are handled on a first come, first served basis, and need to be submitted in advance.
How To Get In
The White House Tours page of the US National Parks service has some information about how the process works. Applications are taken between three months and 21 days before the tour.
Non-US residents need to submit their application via the United States embassy in their country.
Submitting an application as a UK citizen can be a slow and relatively cumbersome process. Understandably, processing tours of the White House for visiting tourists is not the priority of most US Embassy staff. However, if you are persistent, who knows – you might just be in with a chance!
Some Tips To Increase Your Chances
If you definitely have your heart set on a tour, it can be worth making enquiries before the three-month point passes. This means you will know how to submit the application before the window opens.
What To Do When You Arrive
When you arrive at the White House on the day of your tour (with a ticket in hand we hope!), you’ll be required to present your passport and go through an airport-style security check.
As a general rule, the fewer items you take with you, the easier your trip will be, so leave any bags behind in your hotel or find a luggage storage facility. The same goes for video cameras or any other large electronics such as iPads.
Do a bit of planning and follow these rules, and you’ll be able to make the most of your visit to this famous building.
