HOUSTON, TX – July 22, 2025 – Tired of waiting in lines to get into Daikin Park for an Astros game? Fans now have a faster, hands-free option to enter the ballpark thanks to MLB Go-Ahead Entry, Major League Baseball’s facial authentication-based entry system. Introduced for the 2024 season, this technology aims to get you to your seat and the action on the field quicker than ever.
MLB Go-Ahead Entry uses facial recognition technology to identify pre-registered fans, allowing them to walk through dedicated lanes at nearly full speed without needing to pull out their phone or physical ticket. The system verifies your identity and automatically scans your digital tickets, streamlining the entry process.
How it Works:
1. Free-Flow Entry: Instead of stopping to have your ticket scanned, you simply walk through a designated Go-Ahead Entry lane. A camera scans your face as you pass, matching it to your registered account.
2. Hands-Free Convenience: Once identified, your digital tickets for that day’s game are automatically validated, and you can proceed directly into the ballpark.
3. Enhanced Throughput: According to MLB, this system significantly reduces wait times, with pilot programs showing users entering up to 68% faster than traditional lanes.
How to Sign Up for MLB Go-Ahead Entry:
Enrolling in MLB Go-Ahead Entry is completely voluntary and is done directly through the MLB Ballpark app. It’s a one-time registration that can be used at any MLB ballpark that has implemented the technology.
Here are the simple steps to enroll:
1. Download the MLB Ballpark App: If you don’t already have it, download the latest version of the official MLB Ballpark app on your iOS or Android device.
2. Create/Log In to Your Account: Ensure you have an MLB Ballpark app account and are logged in.
Navigate to Go-Ahead Entry: Look for the “Go-Ahead Entry” option within the app. There’s typically a prominent button or section for it.
3. Enroll by Taking a Selfie: Follow the prompts to capture an image (selfie) of your face. This image is then converted into a unique alphanumeric code (or “token”) that is associated with your MLB account, and the image itself is deleted for privacy.
4. Consent to Terms: You will need to consent and agree to MLB’s Terms of Use and Privacy Policy to participate. Enrollment is open to individuals 18 years of age or older. (Note: Children under 18 can enter with a registered adult whose tickets they are using.)
5. Load Your Tickets: Ensure your digital tickets for the game you are attending are loaded into your MLB Ballpark app account.
Once you’ve enrolled, simply head to any designated “Go-Ahead Entry” lane at Daikin Park (available at all entrances) on game day. It’s recommended that the registered individual leads their group through the lane, keeping their face visible for the camera.
While traditional ticket scanning methods remain an option at all gates, MLB Go-Ahead Entry offers a cutting-edge way to streamline your ballpark experience and get you into the game faster.
