FBI Headquarters

The Basics

Access to FBI Headquarters is strictly protected, but inside FBI Experience tours are available to US citizens and valid green card holders. You must arrange a visit through your congressional office and allow at least one month for confirmation. Many group and private sightseeing tours of Washington DC include a viewing of the building’s exterior with in-depth history and details about the FBI.

Things to Know Before You Go

• FBI Headquarters are ideal for those interested in law, government, and intelligence.

• You can schedule an FBI Experience tour up to five months, but no later than four weeks, in advance.

• The FBI runs a security check on all individuals who request a visit.

• Large bags, cameras, video equipment, strollers, food, and drink are prohibited.

• The building is accessible to wheelchair users.

How to Get There

The FBI HQ building is located at 935 Pennsylvania Avenue in downtown Washington DC between 9th and 10th streets NW. The building is easily accessible by metro with nearby stops on the Blue, Orange, Red, Silver, Yellow and Green lines. Driving is not recommended, as parking is extremely limited.

When to Get There

FBI Headquarters visits are available between 9am and 4:30pm Monday through Friday, excluding federal holidays. Washington DC can have extreme weather; check the forecast and dress accordingly.

FBI Experience Tours

The FBI Experience program, launched in 2017, is led by retired FBI agents. Visitors (who must be approved for a tour) can learn about the bureau’s history, work, and internal operations through interactive exhibits, multimedia content, and numerous artifacts. The free interactive tour has some kid-friendly exhibits, too.

What can I see on a visit to FBI headquarters in Washington DC?

On the FBI Experience self-guided tour at the FBI Headquarters in Washington DC, you can tour the J. Edgar Hoover Building and view interactive multimedia exhibits, educational content, and historical artifacts—these tell the history of the FBI and provide insight into its mission.

What are the security measures for taking tours of the FBI headquarters in Washington DC?

One does not simply walk into the FBI headquarters. US citizens and green card holders must submit a reservation request to their congressional representative at least four weeks in advance, bring a valid photo ID, clear a security screening, and leave large bags, cameras, video equipment, and prohibited items behind.

Are the FBI headquarters in Washington DC accessible?

Yes, the J. Edgar Hoover Building and the FBI Experience self-guided tour route have elevator access and are accessible for people with limited mobility. Visitors are encouraged to bring wheelchairs, scooters, and power-driven mobility devices, but none are available on-site.

What am I not allowed to bring in the FBI headquarters in Washington DC during my visit?

If you’re visiting the FBI headquarters in Washington DC, you’ll be turned away if carrying any of the following: large bags, most cameras, video recorders, iPads, strollers, food or beverage, tobacco products, aerosol containers, guns, ammunition, fireworks, electric stun guns, mace, martial arts weapons/devices, knives, or any pointed objects.

How long does it take to tour the FBI headquarters in Washington DC?

The FBI Experience tours of the FBI headquarters in Washington, D.C., take roughly two hours. They are available to US citizens and green card holders who make advance reservations with their congressional office. The tours detail the FBI's history and provide insight into its mission.

Are the FBI headquarters in Washington DC worth visiting?

It depends. Given the difficulty of arranging a visit, which involves submitting a request to your congressional representative at least four weeks before visiting, the 2-hour FBI Experience tours are worth taking for those interested in the FBI's history and mission.