Residents and businesses can apply for passes to get priority loading status for the Hatteras-Ocracoke ferry route.
Vehicles with the priority pass sticker displayed on the driver-side windshield can use lines labeled "PRIORITY" on both sides of the Hatteras Inlet or as a loading attendant so indicates.
To receive priority loading, a vehicle must be in line 10 minutes prior to the next scheduled departure and before loading begins. Boarding sequence is on a first-come, first-serve basis and at the discretion of the loading attendant.
Resident Priority Pass
Permanent residents of Ocracoke Island can apply for a free priority pass for their driver-side windshield.
Applicants must apply in person at the Ocracoke Silver Lake Terminal, 130 Pilot Town Circle.
A valid driver license and a vehicle registration card – both with an Ocracoke address – are required.
Vendor Priority Pass
Businesses that provide commercial services to Ocracoke Island more than twice a week can apply for a vendor priority pass that is valid only for the Hatteras-Ocracoke ferry route.
Passes are issued at the beginning of each year on an as-needed basis.