Membership FAQ
Commonly asked Membership questions
Who can I bring in on my membership?
Who can be a cardholder?
When and how will I receive my membership cards?
I don’t have a smart phone to use a digital card. What do I do?
Do I need my membership card and photo ID at check in?
How do I redeem my gift membership?
How do I replace my membership card?
How do I update my contact information?
Can I add a caregiver or give someone my card?
How do I receive free or discounted admission at other ASTC and AZA institutions?
Who can I bring in on my membership?
As long as one of the cardholders is present, you can bring in whoever you want up to the level of your membership. (i.e. Explorer 6 = one cardholder + 5 or two cardholders + 4)
Who can be a cardholder?
Each membership can have up to two cardholders. All cardholders must be adults in the same household. Please note that once cards are distributed, cardholders cannot be changed or removed until membership renewal.
When and how will I receive my membership cards?
In the next week, a download link will be emailed from our digital card partner Cuseum for each cardholder with their name in the subject line. It will include instructions for how to download the card to your phone. For the first week of a new membership, you can check-in with a photo ID.
Since we can only send to the primary email on your record, two emails are sent with a unique link for each cardholder. Once downloaded, the link expires.
I don’t have a smartphone to use a digital card. What do I do?
We can mail you printed cards. If you purchase or renew on online, just add it to your cart. There’s a $6 processing fee for a set of printed cards. Your printed cards are valid until your next renewal – just be ready to show ID with your ticket when you check in!
Do I need my membership card and photo ID at check-in?
Nope, you can check in with your valid photo ID.
How do I redeem my gift membership?
Your membership is active now! You can visit with just your photo ID until your cards are ready. Then, have both photo ID and your membership card ready when checking in.
Note: The Gift Certificate expires twelve months from purchase and any unused months are not transferable.
How do I replace my membership card?
This can be done at the front desk or by calling the Membership Office at 919.220.5429 x 324. There is a $6 fee for printed replacement cards.
How do I update my contact information?
You can update any email, address, or phone number by emailing us at membership@lifeandscience.org
Can I add a caregiver or give someone my card?
A nanny, grandparent, or other caregiver who brings your children can be added as an authorized user. This benefit is limited to two caregivers and to visits when they are the primary caregiver for your family member. Authorized users will check-in with the name the membership is under and show a valid photo ID.
Our membership office can help you add an authorized user by email at membership@lifeandscience.org or (919) 220-5429 ext. 324. Please include your authorized user’s name and relationship.
How do I receive free or discounted admission at other ASTC and AZA institutions?
You must present your current membership card and photo ID to receive free or reduced admission. Reciprocal benefits vary so be sure to check the ASTC Passport Program or AZA Reciprocity for rules. Restrictions apply and not every member organization offers reciprocity. Click on the links for participating institutions, read the rules, and please call ahead!
*ASTC Passport program excludes offering benefits within 90 miles of your home or the Museum of Life and Science.