Do You Need a Passport to Visit Hawaii?

Is Hawaii on your travel list this year? Are you dreaming of relaxing by the beaches in Oahu or Maui and sipping some cocktails but aren’t sure about the travel regulations?

Get ready to have all your travel documentation questions answered so you can enjoy a stress-free travel experience! This article will clear all of your doubts, whether you’re from the U.S. or elsewhere.

Let’s go!

Do You Need A Passport to Visit Hawaii?

If you’re a U.S. citizen, traveling to Hawaii is considered domestic, so you won’t need a passport to visit. All you need is a driver’s license or other acceptable form of identity card to prove your U.S. citizenship.

If you’re not a U.S. citizen, you’ll need a passport to get into Hawaii. The only exception here is if you’re a permanent resident. Permanent residents can travel to Hawaii without a passport, using their green card or state-issued ID. Depending on where you’re from, you may also need a visa.

We’ll dive into more details in the next few sections.

What Are The Travel Document Requirements for U.S. Citizens?

For domestic flights to Hawaii, a valid government photo ID, such as a driver’s license, is needed for U.S. citizens. This can be a driver’s license from any U.S. state or territory, a U.S. passport card, a trusted traveler card like Global Entry or NEXUS, or a U.S. military ID.

From May 7, 2025, there’s a new policy coming into effect called REAL ID. This will impact how IDs, like driver’s licenses, are issued. By then, you’ll need a REAL ID to board domestic flights and access certain federal facilities.

It is important to have a REAL ID-compliant state driver’s license for air travel and entering federal facilities. Definitely something to keep in mind!

Make sure your ID is current and matches the name on your flight reservation. If your name has changed due to marriage or some other reason, you will need to provide proof, like a marriage certificate or court order.

How Do I Apply for a REAL ID?

Applying for a REAL ID is pretty simple.

First, you’ll need to visit your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) office. Fill in the required details including your full name, date of birth, social security number, and proof of residency.

Bring all the required documents to the DMV office. The list is found on the DMV site. Make sure all your documents have up to date information.

Be prepared to provide any extra information or proof if asked. You may also be required to pay a small fee and have a photo taken.

And voila! If everything goes well, expect to receive your REAL ID in a few weeks.

What If My Flight Has A Layover in A Country Outside the U.S.?

As mentioned, you only need a state driver’s license or a relevant ID to catch a domestic flight to Hawaii. However, if your flight has a layover in a country outside the U.S., you must have your passport with you to fly to Hawaii.

Tip: If you’re having a longer layover, you could make the most of it by getting out of the airport and exploring the local area.

A passport can be a lifesaver in a lot of unexpected circumstances. Say you lose your ID, having a passport makes sure that your Hawaiian vacation experience continues without a hitch.

It’s basically like an added layer of security to give you peace of mind during such unwanted situations.

Traveling to Hawaii with a Green Card

Although you won’t need a passport as a permanent resident of the United States, you will need to present your green card as proof of your permanent resident status.

A valid, unexpired green card (Form I-551) is required for domestic travel to Hawaii. This allows you to travel freely within the United States.

By keeping these documents handy, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip to the Hawaiian Islands.

When Might I Need a Passport as a U.S. Citizen Traveling to Hawaii?

Although you won’t need a passport in most cases, there are some special circumstances under which carrying a passport will come in handy.

Cruise Ship Travel

Since a cruise itinerary may include stops in Mexico or Canada, you may need a passport to prove your citizenship.

Cruise companies often ask for a valid passport as proof of citizenship when returning to the U.S. from a foreign port. So, it’s very important to double-check your cruise line’s specific passport requirements based on your route.

Air Travel Within Hawaii

You don’t need a passport for domestic flights to Hawaii, just like with any other U.S. state. That said, in rare situations, an airline might ask for it, along with your driver’s license or ID, especially when flying between the Hawaiian islands. It’s not always the case, but it’s good to be prepared!

Do Minors Require a Passport to Fly to Hawaii?

Kids under 18 years of age don’t need a passport or REAL ID, as long as they’re traveling with an adult. But remember, airline requirements can vary.

For example, Hawaiian Airlines doesn’t require a REAL ID for underage travelers but still requires some form of valid ID, like a school ID card. If you’re traveling with a lap infant, you may need to show proof of their age, so it’s a good idea to check with your airline about whether you should bring a copy of their birth certificate.

Also, unaccompanied minors have different rules and may need extra documentation like a passport or special ticket. Adults picking up or dropping off unaccompanied minors will need a government-issued ID.

International visitors who aren’t U.S. citizens, including children and infants, need their own passports for travel to Hawaii.

What Are The Travel Requirements for International Travelers?

Hawaii travel as a non-U.S. citizen has a few extra requirements that you need to know about.

Valid Passport

Besides having a valid passport issued by their respective governments, the expiration date on the passport should be longer than the length of their intended stay in the U.S.

Verify the validity of your passport well in advance before your Hawaiian trip so you have time to renew it if needed. Having a buffer time of at least a few months is recommended to stay ahead of any unexpected delays.

Some countries, including Austria, Belgium, Russia, the Netherlands, and Italy, require passports to be valid for at least six months beyond the planned departure date.

Let’s look at the travel document requirements for some countries outside the U.S:

• Canada: Canadian citizens need a passport to enter. However, a NEXUS card can also help with quicker border crossing.
• Mexico: You’ll need either a valid passport, a Visa and Border Crossing Card, or just a Border Crossing Card, depending on your specific travel needs and duration of stay.
• Japan: A passport is required. If you’re visiting the U.S., you also need an ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) for trips up to 90 days.
• South Korea: Passport and ESTA for trips up to 90 days.
• China: Passport required for short stays.
• United Kingdom: Passport required.

VISA

Besides a valid passport, an international traveler may also require a visa to enter the United States.

Your best bet would be to check with the U.S. embassy or consulate or visit the US Department of State’s official website to get accurate information.

The VISA Waiver Program

The visa waiver program allows citizens from 40 countries to enjoy a visa-free travel to the U.S. of up to 90 days. It saves you the hassle of going through the visa application process and lets you enjoy your visit to Hawaii without much hassle.

To qualify, travelers must be from one of the VWP countries. Before traveling, eligible visitors need to apply for an Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) online. This has a 2 year validity. Applying for the ESTA is a fairly quick process but should be done at least 72 hours before departure.

The VWP covers tourism, transit travel, and business purposes.

Also, if you’ve previously been denied entry or overstayed your visit to the U.S., you may not be eligible for the VWP and will need to apply for a visa.

Other Documentation

Sometimes, travelers from outside the U.S. may need a few extra documentation before heading to Hawaii. These requirements are in place to ensure everyone’s safety and to make sure visitors follow the rules while they’re in Hawaii and the U.S.

• Return Ticket: It’s a good idea to have a return ticket as proof that you plan to leave the U.S. after your visit. This helps demonstrate that you don’t intend to overstay your authorized period.
• Travel Insurance: Not always mandatory, but having a travel insurance can be very useful. It can cover unexpected issues like medical emergencies, or lost luggage.
• Proof of Funds: Some travelers may also need to show evidence of sufficient funds for their stay in the U.S which can sometimes be requested by immigration officers if they need to verify your ability to support yourself during the visit.
• Criminal records: For certain individuals or special cases, such as those with past criminal convictions, having a clean criminal record might be necessary to avoid complications. I recommend consulting with legal or immigration professionals if you have past legal concerns.

Travel Restrictions and Requirements

Before planning your trip to Hawaii, it’s essential to be aware of any travel restrictions and requirements that may apply to your situation.

• COVID-19 Restrictions: As of March 26, 2022, COVID-19 restrictions have been lifted for domestic travel to Hawaii. However, international arrivals may still require a negative COVID-19 test result taken no more than one day before travel. Always check the latest guidelines before your trip.

By staying informed about these requirements, you can ensure a hassle-free and enjoyable trip to Hawaii.

FAQs

Do I need a passport to travel to Hawaii if I’m a U.S. citizen?

No, U.S. citizens do not need a passport to travel to Hawaii. A government-issued photo ID, such as a driver’s license, is enough for domestic flights.

What if I’m an international traveler coming to Hawaii?

International travelers will need a valid passport to enter the U.S., including Hawaii. Depending on your country of origin, you may also need a visa or an ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) if you’re from a Visa Waiver Program country.

Can I use other travel documents instead of a passport to travel to Hawaii?

For American citizens, a driver’s license or state ID is enough. International travelers typically need a passport. In some cases, a visa or ESTA may be required, depending on your nationality and the length of your stay.

How can I check if my passport is valid for travel to Hawaii?

Verify your passport’s expiration date and ensure it meets the validity requirements of your destination country. For international travelers, it should be valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure from the U.S.

Your Ticket to a Smooth Hawaiian Getaway

So there you have it! Whether you’re a U.S. citizen soaking up the sun in Hawaii or an international traveler planning your tropical escape, understanding the travel document requirements is key to a smooth journey.

U.S. citizens can simply bring their driver’s license or state ID, while those traveling internationally from a foreign country should make sure their passport is up-to-date and, if necessary, apply for a visa or ESTA.

Now that you’re clear on the travel docs, why not make your Hawaiian vacation even better with the perfect place to stay? At Midway Vacations, we offer a range of beautiful vacation rentals that can turn your trip into a dream getaway.

So pack your bags, grab your travel documents, and choose Midway Vacations to find your ideal rental home in paradise.