Frequently Asked Questions: Flags

Who can order flags through your office?

Any resident of New Mexico may order a flag through my office. Military personnel often find that flags are a welcome retirement gift, and private citizens like owning a flag that they know has flown over the United States Capitol.

If you are not from New Mexico, please contact the senators from your state to arrange to purchase a flag through their office.

Can you donate a flag to our cause?

I receive a large amount of flag donation requests. Although I find these causes worthy, I regret that the sheer volume of such requests makes it impossible for me to oblige them.

How long will it take to get my flag?

Due to heavy demand for flags, the Senate Flag Office estimates a five-week turnaround for flag orders. The five weeks begin when the form is received in the flag office, not from the time it is mailed. Please also remember that mail into the Senate is delayed due to security concerns and may take up to three weeks to arrive in our Washington office.

I need a flag in a hurry.  Can I expedite the process somehow?

Unfortunately, no -- but not because my office doesn't want to help. Regrettably, we control only a small portion of the overall process; specifically, the short time between when your order arrives in my office and the time we take it to the flag office (which usually happens the same day), and again between the time we pick it up from the flag office and the time we ship it back to you (which, again, usually happens the same day). 

The length of time it takes to get your flag flown depends on the number of orders the flag office must fulfill and is not under my control.   

Can you ship flags overseas?

Yes, we can, if you supply us with the appropriate APO address.

Can I use a credit card to purchase my flag?

Unfortunately, we do not have the capability to process credit card information. We can accept only money orders.

What's the difference between a cotton and a nylon flag?

Cotton flags have a softer aspect.	Nylon flags have a sheen.
For direct comparison: cotton flag above and nylon flag below.

How do I know my flag has been flown over the Capitol?

Along with your flag, you will receive a certificate of authenticity stating the date your flag was flown over the Capitol.

What is proper etiquette regarding the flag?

The following guide, written by the Congressional Research Service of the Library of Congress, should answer most questions about proper care, display, and handling of the flag.

The U.S. Flag: Federal Law Relating to Display and Associated Questions.  (93 Kb Adobe Acrobat PDF file.)

FLAG FAQS AT A GLANCE

• Who can order flags through your office?
• Can you donate a flag to our cause?
• How long will it take to get my flag?
• I need a flag in a hurry.  Can I expedite the process somehow?
• Can you ship flags overseas?
• Can I use a credit card to purchase my flag?
• What's the difference between a cotton and a nylon flag?
• How do I know my flag has been flown over the capital?
• What is proper etiquette for handling the flag?