Travel Documents: Us Travel And Passport Requirements

does travel within the united states require a pssport

As of 2023, a passport is not required for domestic travel within the United States. However, this is set to change in 2025 when the Real ID Act comes into effect. This act sets new security standards for state driver's licenses and IDs, and will require US travelers to have a REAL ID-compliant card to board domestic flights. Until then, a valid government-issued photo ID or passport from your country of origin is sufficient for domestic air travel.

Characteristics Values
Passport required for domestic travel Not required until May 7, 2025
Alternative IDs Valid U.S. government-issued photo ID, driver's license, state ID, military ID, etc.
REAL ID Act In effect from May 7, 2025

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Domestic air travel in the US

Until the REAL ID Act comes into effect, US citizens can use a range of other identification documents for domestic air travel, including:

  • State-issued driver's license
  • DHS trusted traveller card
  • State-issued enhanced driver's license
  • U.S. Merchant Mariner Credential
  • Border crossing card
  • Permanent resident card
  • U.S. Department of Defense ID
  • Tribal-issued photo ID
  • Veteran Health Identification Card (VHIC)
  • Foreign government-issued passport

It is important to note that the requirements for REAL ID-compliant cards may vary from state to state, and some states may offer enhanced IDs. Additionally, children under the age of 18 are not expected to provide identification when travelling domestically.

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Domestic travel by train or bus

If you're looking for a scenic and affordable way to travel within the United States, consider travelling by bus or train. Both options offer unique advantages and can help you explore the country's vast landscapes and famous destinations.

Domestic Travel by Bus

Bus travel has become an increasingly popular way to get around the United States, thanks to improvements in bus services and a growing preference for more environmentally friendly transportation options.

Buses in the US are generally modern, comfortable, and spacious, offering amenities such as free Wi-Fi, power outlets, reclining seats, air conditioning, and bathrooms. Some companies, like Greyhound, Jefferson Lines, and FlixBus, offer extensive networks that connect big cities to small towns across the country.

When travelling by bus, you can expect reasonable prices, and fares are usually more affordable than other transportation methods. However, prices can vary depending on the type of bus and the time of year. For example, a regional trip from Boston to New York typically takes around 4 hours and is fairly priced. In contrast, a longer interstate trip like Denver to Dallas can take about 18 hours with a few stops along the way.

It's worth noting that the US is a large country, so bus journeys can cover significant distances. Night buses are common, allowing you to board in one city and wake up in another state.

When choosing a bus company, consider factors such as reviews, prices, and the amenities offered to ensure a smooth and comfortable journey.

Domestic Travel by Train

The United States also boasts an excellent rail network, operated by the National Railroad Passenger Corporation, commonly known as Amtrak. Train travel in the US offers a unique perspective of the country and provides access to many towns, cities, and national parks.

Amtrak offers various routes, including cross-country trips from New York to San Francisco, Boston to New York, and New York to Washington, DC. The California Zephyr route, from Chicago to San Francisco, is particularly scenic, passing through the Rockies and the Sierra Nevada mountains.

Train travel can be comfortable and affordable, with fares starting at $236 for cross-country trips. Amtrak trains provide different classes of service, including coach class and first class, with a range of amenities to enhance your journey.

First-class options include private rooms, known as Roomettes and Bedrooms, which offer privacy, space, and added comforts like complimentary meals and lounge access. Coach class, on the other hand, features wide, reclining seats with ample legroom and no middle seat.

When planning your domestic travel within the United States, consider the benefits of both bus and train travel. Both options provide a unique perspective on the country and can be affordable and comfortable choices for your journey.

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Identification for US citizens

US citizens do not need a passport for domestic travel within the US, including flights between states and US territories such as Puerto Rico, the US Virgin Islands, Guam, American Samoa, and the Northern Mariana Islands. However, some form of identification is required for citizens over the age of 18. This can include a valid, government-issued photo ID, such as a REAL ID-compliant state-issued driver's license or ID card. From May 7, 2025, a REAL ID, or a passport, will be required for domestic air travel.

US citizens do need a passport to travel to certain Freely Associated States, such as the Federated States of Micronesia, the Republic of the Marshall Islands, and the Republic of Palau.

When travelling internationally, US citizens need a US passport book if re-entering by air. Land and sea border crossings accept additional travel documents, such as US passport cards and Trusted Traveler cards.

For US citizens, the following forms of ID are accepted by the TSA for domestic air travel:

  • REAL ID-compliant state-issued driver's license or ID card
  • DHS trusted traveler cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST)
  • US Department of Defense ID, including IDs issued to dependents
  • Permanent resident card
  • Border crossing card
  • Acceptable photo ID issued by a federally recognized Tribal Nation/Indian Tribe, including Enhanced Tribal Cards (ETCs)
  • Foreign government-issued passport
  • Canadian provincial driver's license or Indian and Northern Affairs Canada card
  • Transportation worker identification credential
  • US Citizenship and Immigration Services Employment Authorization Card (I-766)
  • US Merchant Mariner Credential
  • Veteran Health Identification Card (VHIC)

Children under 18 are not required to provide identification when travelling within the US, but it is recommended to carry their birth certificate, a Consular Report of Birth Abroad, or a Naturalization Certificate.

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Identification for foreign citizens

Foreign nationals visiting the United States must carry a valid government-issued photo ID or a passport from their country of origin as proof of identification. The name on the boarding pass must match the legal name on the unexpired government-issued ID.

  • Border crossing card
  • DHS trusted traveler cards
  • Driver's license issued by the Department of Motor Vehicles
  • Foreign government-issued passport
  • Veteran Health Identification Card (VHIC)
  • Permanent resident card
  • State-issued driver's license or state-issued ID
  • U.S. Department of Defense ID
  • U.S. Merchant Mariner Credential

In addition to the above, some other forms of ID that may be accepted include:

  • Social Security card
  • Voter registration card
  • School yearbook with an identifiable photograph
  • Selective Service (draft) card
  • Medicare or other health card
  • Expired driver's license

It is important to note that digital IDs, such as mobile driver's licenses, are typically not accepted as valid forms of identification for foreign citizens entering the United States.

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Identification for permanent US residents

If you are a permanent resident of the United States, you do not need a passport for domestic travel within the country. However, you will need a valid government-issued photo ID to travel through security. This can be a state-issued ID card or a driver's license.

From May 7, 2025, you will need a REAL ID-compliant form of identification for domestic air travel and to access federal facilities. A REAL ID is a U.S. government-issued identification card that meets enhanced security standards. It is distinguishable by a star symbol on the card.

To obtain a REAL ID, you must provide the following:

  • One proof of identity (original or certified copy only). Acceptable documents include a valid, unexpired Permanent Resident Card, or Green Card.
  • Two proofs of state residency. Acceptable documents include a rental or lease agreement, a utility bill, a tax return, or a voter registration confirmation letter.

If you are a new permanent resident, you may need to verify your identity using other documents, such as:

  • A Permanent Residence Card or Green Card.
  • A USCIS-issued Employment Authorization card.
  • A non-U.S. passport or non-immigrant visa.
  • A Certificate of Naturalization.
  • A border crossing card.
  • A driver's license.

Frequently asked questions

No, you do not need a passport to fly within the US. A government-issued photo ID, such as a state-issued ID card, is sufficient for domestic air travel. However, this will change in 2025 when the Real ID Act comes into effect.

Acceptable forms of ID for US citizens include:

- State-issued driver's license

- DHS trusted traveler card

- State-issued Enhanced Driver’s License

- U.S. Merchant Mariner Credential

- Border crossing card

- Permanent resident card

- U.S. Department of Defense ID

- Tribal-issued photo ID

- Veteran Health Identification Card (VHIC)

- Foreign government-issued passport

No, you do not need a passport to travel by train or bus within the US.

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