<P> Tours were suspended in the wake of the September 11, 2001 attacks due to terrorism concerns . In September 2003 they were resumed on a limited basis for groups making prior arrangements through their congressional representatives and submitting to background checks . They were again suspended in March 2013 during the Obama administration, due to the effects of the ongoing budget sequestration, but were resumed again in November 2013 . </P> <P> Presently, a tour of the White House must be arranged through a member of Congress . Reservations may be made a maximum of six months ahead of time, and the White House encourages tours be submitted as close to six months in advance as possible as tours are filled on a first - come, first - served basis . The approval and reservation system was modernized under the Obama administration . </P> <P> Anyone aged 14 or older who is offered a tour must undergo a background check . This requires providing personal information, including name, date of birth, Social Security number, and country of citizenship . </P> <P> Tours are available from 7: 30 a.m. to 11: 30 a.m. Tuesday through Thursday, 7: 30 a.m. to 1: 30 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays (excluding federal holidays or unless otherwise noted). Tour hours will be extended when possible based on the official White House schedule . They are self - guided and free of charge . Tours are subject to last - minute cancellation . </P>

When did the white house close to the public