Planning a trip to Hawaii? Here's what you need to know. While US citizens and permanent residents don't need a passport for domestic travel to Hawaii, they will need a government-issued photo ID, such as a driver's license, or a REAL ID, which will be required for all domestic flights from May 7, 2025. International visitors, on the other hand, will need a valid passport, and possibly a visa, depending on their country of origin. Additionally, there are new requirements for visitors to Hawaii, such as mandatory site reservations and entry fees for certain attractions, as well as short-term rental restrictions. So, before you go, be sure to check the latest travel requirements and plan accordingly to ensure a smooth vacation in Hawaii.
Characteristics | Values |
---|---|
Domestic Travel | No passport required for US citizens. A government-issued photo ID, such as a driver's license, is needed. |
International Travel | A valid passport is required for international visitors. Visa requirements vary by nationality. |
REAL ID | REAL ID-compliant driver's license or another acceptable form of ID is required for domestic flights by May 7, 2025. |
What You'll Learn
Required documents for US citizens and permanent residents
As Hawaii is a part of the United States, US citizens and permanent residents do not need a passport when travelling to Hawaii from other parts of the US. Instead, travellers need to present a valid government-issued photo ID, such as a state-issued ID or driver's license.
From May 7, 2025, travellers will need a REAL ID-compliant driver's license or another acceptable form of identification to fly domestically within the US, including travelling to Hawaii from the mainland. REAL ID-compliant cards are marked with a star or the word "enhanced" at the top of the card.
Children and teenagers under 18 years of age do not need an ID when travelling with a companion who has a valid ID. However, it is recommended that they carry some form of ID, such as a school ID card. If you are travelling with an infant on your lap, you may be asked for proof of the child's age, so it is recommended to carry a copy of the birth certificate.
If you are a US citizen travelling to Hawaii via a foreign country, a valid passport is needed.
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Required documents for non-US citizens
As a non-US citizen, you will need a valid passport to enter the United States, including Hawaii. If your home country is part of the Visa Waiver Program, you can enjoy a simplified process without needing a visa but will still require a valid passport. Depending on your nationality and the purpose of your trip, you may also need to obtain a visa. It is recommended to check the specific entry requirements for your nationality before booking your trip to Hawaii.
When travelling to Hawaii, you will need to complete a customs declaration form and an immigration form. The customs declaration form is required for all arriving passengers and crew, even if you have nothing to declare. Any dutiable goods, food, plant or animal products must be declared. You must also declare if you are carrying more than $10,000 in cash or other negotiable instruments. The immigration form is required for all non-US citizens, except permanent US residents and Canadian citizens.
Canadian citizens can use a NEXUS card instead of a passport when entering the United States, including Hawaii, although this is only valid for stays of up to six months. Canadian citizens aged 15 and under entering the US by air need to provide proof of citizenship, such as a birth certificate or passport.
It is always advisable to carry some form of photo ID throughout your trip, which can help to expedite any security checks.
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Required documents for children
When it comes to travelling to Hawaii with children, there are some important documents you should keep in mind to ensure a smooth journey. Here is a detailed guide to help you prepare:
Documents for Domestic Travel to Hawaii:
Children under 18 years of age are not required to present identification when travelling with a companion who has a valid ID. However, it is recommended that they carry some form of identification, such as a school ID card. This will make the verification process easier and prevent any potential delays.
Birth Certificate:
Although not mandatory, carrying a copy of your child's birth certificate is always a good idea. In certain situations, airlines may request proof of your child's age, and having the birth certificate readily available can avoid any last-minute hassles.
Unaccompanied Minors:
If your child is travelling to Hawaii unaccompanied, they will be considered an "Unaccompanied Minor" and will be subject to special requirements. In addition to the regular travel ticket, there may be additional fees and documentation, such as a signed request form by the parent or guardian. The adult dropping off the child at the airport will also need to provide government-issued ID.
International Travel:
If your travel to Hawaii includes a layover or cruise ship stop in a foreign country, different rules apply. In this case, all travellers, including children, will need a valid passport. Additionally, a visa may be required, depending on the country of origin and the length of stay.
Permission Slips:
If only one parent is travelling with the child, it is highly recommended to carry a permission slip from the other parent, especially for international travel. While it may not always be required, having a notarised permission slip can streamline the process and prevent any potential issues. The permission slip should include clear information about who is granting permission, the scope of the permission, and contact details for the parent not travelling.
Other Recommendations:
- It is always a good idea to have a current photo of your child with you while travelling.
- Ensure your child carries emergency notification information, including important contact numbers and medical information.
- Make copies of all important travel documents and leave them with a trusted person who is not travelling with you.
Remember to check the specific requirements of your airline, as there may be slight variations in their policies regarding identification for children. By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your travel experience to Hawaii with your children is enjoyable and hassle-free.
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New requirements for Hawaii visitors
As of 2024, there are new mandatory requirements for visitors to Hawaii, which will impact their ability to access top attractions.
Mandatory Site Reservations
All visitors to Hawaii now need to have a reservation to access the most popular attractions. Without the correct reservation, visitors will be denied access.
Entry Fees for Travellers
There are new entry fees for visitors to certain locations and attractions.
Short-term Rental Restrictions
Due to the impact of short-term rentals on the quality of life for locals, new restrictions are in place which may impact visitors' stays.
REAL ID Compliance
From May 7, 2025, only federal-compliant REAL ID driver's licenses and state ID cards will be accepted for domestic airline flights and to enter certain federal buildings and military bases. A valid US passport or military ID can be used as alternative identification.
Hawaii driver's licenses and state ID cards with a star in a gold circle in the top right-hand corner are REAL ID-compliant.
Health Travel Requirements
Check the CDC website for any health documents required to enter Hawaii.
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Hawaii packing list
Travel Documents
- ID: driver's license or passport (TSA does not require IDs for children under 18 travelling with an adult)
- Plane tickets (download the airline app on your smartphone to use electronic tickets)
- Resort or hotel reservations
- Itineraries
- Tickets for any pre-booked excursions or events
- Transportation details (car rental information or shuttle details)
Clothing
- Comfortable, light, breathable clothing (t-shirts, shorts, tank tops, sarong, light summer dresses, aloha shirts)
- Bathing suits
- Sandals or flip-flops
- Hiking boots
- Water shoes
- Rain jacket
- Sun hat
- Sleepwear
- Dress or linen slacks for a nice dinner
Toiletries
- Shampoo and conditioner
- Toothpaste and toothbrush
- Moisturising skin and face lotion
- Hair supplies: scrunchies, curling iron, brush
- Reef-safe sunscreen (Hawaii has banned most sunscreens)
- Mosquito repellent
Other Essentials
- Comfortable shoes for walking
- Beach bag
- Rash guard
- Fanny pack or waist pack
- Daypack or small backpack
- Reusable water bottle
- Reusable shopping bag
- Smartphone and charging cords
- Earbuds
- Books
- Journal
- Playing cards or travel games
- Underwater camera
- Dry bag
- Flotation strap for underwater camera or phone case
- Waterproof phone pouch or waterproof waist pouch
- AirTag
- Packing cubes
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Frequently asked questions
No, a passport is not required for US citizens travelling to Hawaii from other parts of the United States. Instead, travellers only need to present valid proof of identification, such as a state-issued ID card or driver's license.
A valid photo ID is typically all they need for US citizen children flying domestically to Hawaii. Acceptable forms of identification for minors include a school ID card or a birth certificate.
Other necessary travel documents may include a customs declaration form, travel insurance, itinerary and reservation confirmations, proof of accommodations, and an agricultural declaration form.