As of November 2019, the Bureau of Reclamation is requiring that commercial operators bringing passengers to Hoover Dam have a Hoover Dam CUA (Commercial Use Authorization).

Prior to visiting the dam, guides should ensure that their tour operator or motor coach company has secured the CUA. While many local coach companies will get and have the CUA, the onus is on the packager or operator.

The application and CUA fee is $300. Until the Spring, when a new shack will be built just past the security stop, the CUA checkpoint will be at the security stop. If a commercial vehicle does not have the CUA, they will have to either pay $300 on the spot for a Temporary CUA (TCUA) or turn around. These are options no guide would want to chose from. If purchasing the TCUA, the operator has 7 days to apply for the CUA and receive credit for the $300 paid, or they will forfeit the amount.

Also, note that in the Spring, an additional User Fee of $5 per person will be collected at the CUA checkpoint!

The CUA and User Fees are not related to or changing the cost of tours at the dam or policies for parking in the garage.

The CUA will be required for any visit past the security stop, so this includes the bridge as well as the dam itself. Though it’s unlikely that one would drive to the Lake Mead overlook for its own sake, as it’s prior to the security stop, the CUA is not required to stop there.

While daily operators to the dam and most local motorcoach companies will be prepared and have the CUA, those from outside the area may not be. Some local DMCs or infrequent operators may also not be aware of the new requirements and upcoming User Fees. Especially until some time has passed, guides should doublecheck that their employer or coach company has the CUA and that you have a copy with you when visiting Hoover Dam.

For details, see the Bureau of Reclamation website.