For independent and working journalists
Apply free in about two minutes. Show who you are and what you publish, with the option of a printed press kit.
An NPA membership is a private association credential. It is not government-issued and does not give legal rights or guaranteed access. See how press credentials really work.
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Thank you for applying to the National Press Association. Check your email within 24 hours for your membership confirmation.
← Return to homepageYou qualify with any one of these. You do not need to work for a news organization.
Original reporting or commentary you publish online.
A newsletter you write and send to readers.
Work published under your name in print publications.
An established social media profile where you report or comment.
Fill in the short form above and link to your work. It takes about two minutes.
We check your work against the qualification standard. Applications are typically reviewed within 24 hours.
We email your membership confirmation. Printed kits are for approved members.
$49 a year. New members get a free bonus year. The NPA prints and ships every kit.
Your NPA membership certificate.
A wallet-size membership card.
An NPA member badge.
Plain identification wording.
The card and hanger identify you as an NPA member. They do not give parking, access, or police-line privileges.
An NPA membership is a private association credential. It is not issued by a government agency. No U.S. law requires a journalist to carry a press pass, and agencies, venues and event organizers set their own rules for who they admit. Membership does not give you legal rights or guarantee access.
Read how press credentials actually work, check what major cities require, and see our editorial standards.
Yes. Applying and membership are free. The printed press kit is optional and costs $49 a year.
Independent and working journalists who have a live blog or website, a newsletter, bylines in print publications, or a social media profile with an established audience. You do not need to work for a news organization.
Membership in the NPA, confirmed by email, and, if you choose it, The Press Briefing, our free weekly newsletter.
A membership certificate, a laminated press pass card, a badge, and a car mirror hanger with plain identification wording. The NPA prints and ships the kits.
The kit is $49 a year, and new members get a free bonus year.
No. It is a private association credential. No U.S. law requires a journalist to carry a press pass, and agencies and event organizers set their own rules. Our guide to how press credentials work explains what agencies in major cities require.
No. They identify you as an NPA member. They do not give you parking, access, or legal privileges.
Applications are typically reviewed within 24 hours, and you will hear from us by email. The NPA does not give legal advice; for a legal problem, speak with a licensed attorney.