Launched March 26. New York launches Excelsior Pass to prove vaccination or negative COVID test

New York State’s Excelsior Pass, an app to prove Covid-19 vaccination or a recent negative Covid test, was launched March 26.

Madison Square Garden in New York City and Times Union Center in Albany are expected to start using the pass this week. Starting April 2, smaller arts, entertainment and event venues will start gaining access to the app.

Participating New Yorkers may choose to use Excelsior Pass to verify their COVID-19 vaccination or negative test results as needed to gain entry to major stadiums and arenas, wedding receptions, or catered and other events above the social gathering limit. After gaining entry to an establishment, pass holders will still be asked to follow State and CDC guidance regarding social distancing, face coverings and hand hygiene.

Passes can be stored digitally through the free “Excelsior Pass Wallet” app (available in the Apple App Store and Google Play Store) or printed out from the online Excelsior Pass website.

Using the Excelsior Pass is a free and voluntary; New Yorkers can always show alternate proof of vaccination or testing, like another mobile application or paper form, directly at a business or venue.

To sign up or learn more, visit: www.epass.ny.gov.

- Molly Colgan