Membership Frequently Asked Questions

Membership Options

Q: When I buy a membership, when can I begin to use it?
A: Your membership is valid from the time of purchase and may be used immediately for access to the Hall. If you purchase your membership in the museum, you will receive temporary membership cards immediately.

Q: How do I know when my membership expires?
A: Your expiration date of membership will be printed on your membership cards. Memberships to the Lawrence Hall of Science are valid for one full year. As your expiration date nears, you will receive renewal notices from us via mail and email, highlighting some of our upcoming events and exhibits.

Q: Can member children come without a parent?
A: All children 17 & under visiting the Hall must be accompanied by an adult. Member children must be accompanied by one of the adults named under their membership.

Q: Can I let my relatives or neighbors use my membership?
A: No. Memberships are non-transferable and can be used only by the individuals listed on the membership cards.

Q: I would like to buy a gift membership for someone. How can I do this?
A: See the Gift Membership page for more information on gift memberships.

Membership Cards

Q: How long will it take to receive my membership cards?
A: Permanent member cards are mailed to you within 7-10 working days of purchase. If you purchase your membership at the Visitors Service Desk or in the Registration Office, you will receive temporary membership cards valid for 30 days. If you have not received your cards after approximately three weeks of purchase, please contact the Membership Office at 510-642-1838, Monday-Friday 9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. or email us at hallmembers@berkeley.edu.

Q: How many membership cards will I receive?
A: One card for Individual and Senior memberships; two cards for Family/Grandparent; and four cards for Family Plus levels and above.

Q: Am I able to use my membership without having the card?
A: While we strongly suggest having the card with you on your visit, you may enter the museum without your membership card. Please be prepared to show a picture ID at the Visitors Service Desk, and they will verify your current membership and level.

Q: My card has been lost/stolen. What should I do?
A: The replacement fee is $5 per card. Please contact the Membership Office at 510-642-1838 or email hallmembers@berkeley.edu for more information. Replacement cards may also be requested and paid for at the Visitors Service Desk.

Q: How can I update my mailing or email address?
A: If you have recently changed your address, please contact the Membership Office at 510-642-1838, Monday-Friday 9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. or email us at hallmembers@berkeley.edu with your new information and we will be happy to update your record.

Membership Benefits

Q: How can I find out about members-only events?
A: Our events are advertised on our website and through member emails. A postcard is mailed for some events.

Q: How do I get my members-only discount on camps and classes?
A: Contact our Registration Office at 510-642-5134 for more information on registering for camps and classes.

Q: Is my membership tax-deductible?
A: Yes, your purchase of a Hall membership is recognized as a charitable donation for federal and state tax purposes. Memberships are tax deductible to the extent allowable by law. Also, we are happy to issue a tax letter to you with our tax ID information. Please contact the Membership Office at 510-642-1838, Monday-Friday 9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. or email us at hallmembers@berkeley.edu with your request (specify if you would like your letter sent via email or regular mail). Please consult your tax adviser for specific advice.

Reciprocal Membership Programs

Q: Can I use my membership to get a discount at other museums?
A: Yes, we are part of the Association of Science-Technology Centers' (ASTC) Passport Program, which offers reciprocal admission to our members when they travel to museums across the world. All members of the Hall are eligible to participate in the ASTC reciprocal program. Visit our Benefits and Levels page for more information. Also, at Family Plus levels and above, members have access to the Association of Children's Museums (ACM) reciprocal program.

Q: Do I receive free or reduced admission to ASTC reciprocal museums?
A: Local ASTC museums within 90 miles of us offer half-price admission to our members. Outside of the Bay Area, ASTC science centers and museums offer free admission to members. Visit our Benefits and Levels page for a complete list of participating organizations.

Q: Do I receive reduced admission to Association of Children's Museums?
A: For Family Plus or higher level memberships, the ACM reciprocal program benefit is 50% off general admission for up to (6) people at almost 200 reciprocal Children's Museums throughout the US and Canada.

Q: I am a member of a reciprocal museum. What do I need to enter your museum?
A: If you are a member of a reciprocal museum and are planning to visit the Hall, you will be given ASTC admission discounts for your membership level. ACM reciprocity admits up to (6) people for 1/2 price. You must have your membership card or official proof of membership along with a valid photo ID at the time of your visit. We do not have access to your membership information and will not refund admission after the fact. Keep in mind that the Lawrence Hall of Science does follow the 90-mile limit for local ASTC members. Please contact our Visitors Service Desk at 510-642-5132 daily between 10:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. for more information.

If you have questions not answered above, email the Membership Department or call us at 510-642-1838.