Rules for getting spouse into SEMA

[ErikLS2]

Does anyone know just how far SEMA goes to allow a "spouse" into the show with an approved attendee? IOW can I bring my GF and just say she hasn't changed her name yet, or isn't changing it, and as long as her ID matches the name I entered she gets in?.....She's awesome, but I won't be marrying her by then. :D

[69Camaro]

Should be fine, once the application is approved. No one has ever asked us for ID. As long as you have the pass they let you in. I doubt you are the first person to apply with different last names.

[ErikLS2]

That's helpful, thanks. The fine print on their website says something like spouse badges don't come with a holder and to get a holder present the badge with matching ID at the show to get the holder. I presume the holder is required for the badge?

[RECOVERY ROOM]

20 years of going they have never questioned my wife’s last name not being the same

[ErikLS2]

Thanks for the replies. Apparently this year spouse badges are treated a bit differently. Not sure this changes anything, I'm not faking any names or anything. This is from the SEMA website:

If you pre-registered your spouse to attend this year’s AAPEX and the SEMA Show—and you did so by Friday, October 12, 2018—his or her spouse badge will be mailed to you with your badge pre-show. However, beginning this year, YOUR SPOUSE’S BADGE IS NO LONGER MAILED IN A BADGE HOLDER. Upon arrival onsite, your spouse will need to bring his or her badge to the Pre-Registered Spouse Badge Holder Pick Up desk and present a matching, government-issued photo ID (such as a passport or driver’s license). Badge holders will not be given out without verification. Badges without a holder will not be allowed into the exhibit halls. Lost or forgotten badges may be subject to a $100 per badge replacement fee onsite.