How to Reach the Frances Perkins Building

The U.S. Department of Labor’s headquarters, the Frances Perkins Building, sits at 200 Constitution Avenue NW in Washington, D.C., on the northeast corner of Constitution Avenue and 3rd Street NW. The public entrance—called the Fountain Entrance—is actually one block north on 3rd Street at C Street NW. Because parking is scarce and traffic heavy in the area, Metro is the recommended way to get there.

The closest station is Judiciary Square on the Red Line. Exit toward 4th Street NW, go up the escalators, cross a small plaza to 4th and D Streets NW, then follow the diagonal walkway to the west side of the building. For drivers, the main routes are: from the south via I-395 North, exit at 1st Street NW; from the north via I-95 South to US-50 West (New York Avenue), then take the 3rd Street tunnel; from the west via I-66 East across the Theodore Roosevelt Bridge onto Constitution Avenue; and from the east via US-50 West to I-395 South into the tunnel. Visitors arriving from Reagan National, Dulles, or BWI airports can connect to the Red Line or follow specific driving instructions.

On‑site parking is available for a fee but must be approved in advance by a DOL sponsor. Street and nearby commercial lots also charge local rates.

What Visitors Need to Know Before Arriving

Security, ID Rules, and Building Hours

All visitors pass through airport‑style screening. Laptops and other electronics must be removed from bags for inspection and logging. Anyone carrying a state‑issued driver’s license that does not meet the REAL ID Act requirement should bring an alternative government‑issued photo ID; if that isn’t possible, alternate access procedures are available. The Frances Perk Café on the premises is open to the public Monday through Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., though hours can shift for special events. A post office inside the building is also accessible after clearing security.