You don't need a retired ID card. VA card works once registered at main gate. You do need the new Real ID card for the state
I went to the visitors center yesterday and got access. You show them your VA Card and driver's license. They ask you to put your Social Security number into a keypad and scan your index fingerprints on both hands. Then they take your picture and you're done. You use your VA card for access at the gate and at any facilities. It's good until 31 December. Hope this helps. P.S. I have the Real ID so that probably helped.
They have expanded the accessibility to any service connected disabled veteran effective 1/1/2020 provided they have their VA identification card. I just visited the commissary for the 2nd time today. The first time it went smoothly, today though they tried to hassle me about my wife before waving me through. Everything Bobby Hill wrote above is correct!
https://www.blogs.va.gov/VAntage/70068/dod-answers-top-10-questions-expanded-commissary-exchange-mwr-access/
You will need an retired ID card. I am not sure of the veteran ID card will work.
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