Do You Need a Passport to Go to Hawaii? Everything You Need to Know
Planning a tropical escape to Hawaii but not sure about passport requirements? Here’s the quick answer: If you’re a U.S. citizen travelling from anywhere within the United States, you do not need a passport to go to Hawaii. It’s just like flying to any other state. However, if you’re travelling from outside the U.S., you will need a valid passport and potentially a visa, depending on your nationality.
Let’s break down the details to make your trip smooth and stress-free.
Travelling to Hawaii from the Mainland U.S.
Hawaii is the 50th state of the United States. This means:
- No passport required for U.S. citizens. You can use your state-issued ID, driver’s license, or any TSA-approved identification to board your flight.
- From May 2025, you will need a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or another accepted ID to fly within the U.S., including to Hawaii. Check if your license has the star marking that indicates REAL ID compliance.
Travelling to Hawaii from Outside the U.S.
If you’re visiting from another country:
- You will need a valid passport to enter the United States, including Hawaii.
- Depending on your country, you may also need a visa or an ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) if you’re part of the Visa Waiver Program. travel. Ensure you check the current entry requirements before traveling.
Can You Use a Passport Instead of an ID for U.S. Domestic Flights?
Yes. Even though a passport isn’t required for U.S. citizens travelling to Hawaii, you can use your U.S. passport book as your form of identification for TSA checks if you prefer.
What About U.S. Territories Like Guam or Puerto Rico?
Similar to Hawaii, travelling to U.S. territories such as Guam, Puerto Rico, or the U.S. Virgin Islands does not require a passport for U.S. citizens. However, you will need a valid form of government-issued ID.
Additional Tips for Your Hawaii Trip
Book early. Hawaii is a popular year-round destination, especially during summer and winter holidays.
Check baggage rules. Inter-island flights often use smaller planes with stricter luggage allowances.
Don’t forget travel insurance. Even though it’s domestic, insurance can cover unexpected delays or cancellations.
Plan your payments. If you’re supporting family or paying for accommodation in advance, apps like Paysend let you send money securely, quickly, and with low fees – whether it’s to a Hawaiian host or family back home while you’re away.
The Bottom Line
If you’re a U.S. citizen flying to Hawaii, leave your passport at home and bring your driver’s license or REAL ID. If you’re coming from outside the U.S., pack your passport and check visa requirements. With travel sorted, you can focus on what really matters – enjoying those sunsets on Waikiki Beach.
The educational materials on this site are provided for informational purposes only and do not reflect the opinions of Central Bank of Kansas City, Member FDIC. Educational materials may contain links to content on third-party websites, which are provided for your convenience; please note that linked sites may have a privacy and security policy different from our own, and we cannot attest to the accuracy of information. The Central Bank of Kansas City does not guarantee nor expressly endorse any particular business, product, service, or third-party content.
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