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Frequently Asked Questions

Have questions about FONZ membership? Find answers to the most commonly asked questions here.

How do I join FONZ?
There are four easy ways to join FONZ. You can join online instantly, contact the FONZ Membership Department directly at 202.633.2922, complete and mail this printable application form, or join at the Zoo at any information booth, parking booth, or gift shop.

When will I receive my permanent membership card?
Please allow up to three weeks for your membership card and welcome package to arrive in the mail. Still haven’t received your card? Don’t hesitate to call us at 202.633.2922 or email us to let us know.

Can I redeem my FONZ benefits before my permanent membership card arrives?
Yes. Your membership is active the day you join FONZ. If you join online, you will receive an email confirming your membership immediately. You may print this email and bring it to the Zoo to enjoy your benefits. If you join during a visit to the Zoo, you will be given a temporary card valid for up to three months.

How many membership cards will I receive?
You will receive one membership card if you sign up at the Individual, Young Professional, Senior, or Zoogoer level. will receive two membership cards at all other levels, Household and above. If you purchase a membership at or above the Household level you may list up to two names on your membership card.

Can membership be shared?
Memberships may not be shared by more than one household. All adults named on the card and their children up to age 18 must reside in the same household. Memberships are not transferable and are only valid for the individuals named on the card.

Can our nanny or childcare provider use our membership card?
Zoo memberships are tailored specifically for the named adult cardholders on the membership cards. However, we understand that you (and the other cardholder) might not always be available to bring the kids to the Zoo. As a courtesy, we do allow nannies and caregivers to use their employer’s Zoo membership during these special circumstances. To do so, we require a written letter as proof of authorization to use your membership. Authorization letters must be dated the same day as the visit, have the full name of the nanny/caregiver, your name and signature, and a contact number.

What do I do if I misplace my membership card?
If you misplace your membership card, you can request a new card online. There is a $5 charge for printing a replacement card. If you do not have a valid membership card, you will not be able to receive free parking when visiting the Zoo. Please allow two to three weeks for delivery. If you plan to visit the Zoo before your replacement card arrives, or you believe that you have misplaced your card temporarily, bring your photo ID and stop by any Zoo membership kiosk or information booth. One of our representatives will verify your membership. You will be issued a day pass valid for all the benefits of your FONZ Membership, including parking. Please make sure you receive your day pass before you leave; day passes are not available at the parking lots and parking is not refundable.

How can I renew my membership?
You can renew your membership online, at the Zoo, or by mail. You will receive renewal notices by mail and by email, if you provide your email address.

I've already renewed my FONZ membership, but I continue to receive renewal notices. Should I be concerned?
If you have recently renewed your FONZ membership, please disregard any further renewal notices. Although we work to process renewals as quickly as possible, it is possible that your payment and our notice crossed in the mail.

How can I change my mailing and email address?
You can change your mailing and email address by sending us an email with your name, old and new addresses, and FONZ member number.

Can I purchase a membership for more than one year?
Individual, Young Professional, and Household levels of membership are also available as two-year memberships.

Can I support FONZ if I live outside the D.C. Metro area?
By becoming a FONZ member at any level, you help support the National Zoo's commitment to providing leadership in animal care, science, education, and sustainability. The Zoogoer membership level is specifically designed for and only available to individuals more than 200 miles outside of Washington, D.C. You can also support this important mission by donating to the National Zoo.

Do you offer discounts for seniors?
Yes. People 65 and older can purchase a Senior FONZ membership for $50 for one year.

Is free parking included with my membership?
Yes. Every level of FONZ membership includes free parking when visiting the Zoo during regular Zoo hours. However, it does not guarantee that parking will be available. Plan to arrive early when weather is nice. Indoor animal exhibits are open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., but Zoo gates open at 6:00 a.m. April through October and many animals are in their outdoor exhibits before 10:00 a.m. during the summer season.

What are the rules for parking?
A valid FONZ membership card with matching photo ID is required for free parking. Please be prepared to present your FONZ membership card and ID at the parking gate. If you forget your membership card, or if it has an expired date on it, you will be charged for parking. Parking spaces are limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis during regular Zoo hours.

Can I get a refund for parking?
The parking fee cannot be refunded. Parking spaces are limited and on a first-come, first-served basis.

I forgot to bring my membership card; can I still park at the Zoo for free?
Yes! Just bring your photo ID and stop by any membership kiosk or information booth and one of our representatives will verify your membership. You will be issued a day pass valid for all the benefits of your membership, including parking. Please make sure you receive your day pass before you leave; day passes are not available at the parking lots and parking is not refundable.

Why must I show an ID with my membership card?
As a non-profit organization we rely heavily on membership dues and attendance fees for support. To prevent the misuse of your membership cards, we ask that you show a photo ID. We appreciate your understanding.

Is my membership payment tax-deductible?
Yes. The amount you may deduct varies by membership level.

Is my membership good at other zoos?
The National Zoo participates in a reciprocal program that includes more than 100 zoos and aquariums nationwide. As a FONZ member, you are eligible to receive benefits from other participating organizations. Benefits may vary. We recommend that you call ahead to the zoo or aquarium you plan to visit to confirm what benefits are offered. See a list of reciprocating zoos and aquariums and their current benefits.

Does FONZ exchange mailing lists with other organizations?
FONZ does not sell membership information or sell or trade phone and email information. FONZ occasionally shares membership addresses with organizations we believe might be of interest to our members. If you do not wish your mailing address to be shared with other mailers, please email us or call 202.633.2922, Monday through Friday, 9 a.m-5 p.m.

Other questions?
If you don't see the answer to your question, please call us at 202.633.2922 or email us.

Thank you for supporting the National Zoo. Money raised through membership is used to support the National Zoo’s international wildlife conservation efforts.