Hawaii is one of those destinations that feels like a dream come true — golden beaches, swaying palm trees, turquoise waves, and endless sunshine. If you’re planning a trip to this island paradise, you may be wondering: do you need a passport to go to Hawaii? It’s a great question, especially given Hawaii’s location in the middle of the Pacific Ocean. Let’s walk through everything you need to know so you can pack your bags with peace of mind.
Do You Need a Passport to Go to Hawaii?
If you’re a U.S. citizen traveling from the mainland United States, the good news is that you do not need a passport to go to Hawaii. Hawaii is the 50th state of the U.S., so traveling there is considered domestic travel. That means you don’t need a passport — just like you wouldn’t need one to fly to New York or Texas.
Instead, what you do need is a valid form of ID that meets TSA requirements for domestic flights. A REAL ID-compliant driver’s license, U.S. passport (if you have one), military ID, or a Trusted Traveler card will work. Still confused about what to bring? You can find a detailed breakdown here: do you need a passport to go to Hawaii.
Do You Need a Passport to Fly to Hawaii?
Now let’s tackle the specific question: do you need a passport to fly to Hawaii? The answer is simple — no passport is required for U.S. citizens flying from the mainland U.S. to Hawaii. The flight is treated the same as any other domestic route within the United States.
However, you will need to present acceptable ID at airport security. After May 7, 2025, that means a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or another approved ID like a passport, passport card, military ID, or Trusted Traveler card (Global Entry, NEXUS, etc). If you’re unsure what’s accepted, this guide on do you need a passport to fly to Hawaii can help you plan ahead.
What Counts as Acceptable ID?
Here’s a quick list of what works at TSA security for flights to Hawaii:
- REAL ID-compliant driver’s license
- U.S. passport or passport card
- DHS Trusted Traveler cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST)
- U.S. military ID
- Permanent resident card (green card)
- Enhanced driver’s license (if your state offers them)
Not sure if your driver’s license is a REAL ID? Look for the small star in the top corner of your license. If it’s missing, it may not be compliant — and you’ll want to apply for a REAL ID or bring a passport to the airport.
How to Get a REAL ID
Pro tip: Apply early so you’re ready for your trip well in advance.
Getting a REAL ID is pretty simple:
1️⃣ Schedule an appointment at your local DMV.
2️⃣ Bring documents like your birth certificate or passport, proof of Social Security number, and two proofs of address.
3️⃣ Complete the application and pay the fee.
4️⃣ Take a photo — your new ID will be mailed to you.
Special Circumstances When a Passport May Be Needed
While no passport is needed for U.S. citizens flying directly to Hawaii, there are some cases when carrying a passport is smart:
🌎 International stopovers — If your flight to Hawaii connects through another country, a passport will be required.
🛳 Cruises — Some Hawaii cruises stop at foreign ports (such as Mexico or Canada), in which case a passport is necessary.
🚨 Emergency diversions — Although rare, if your plane makes an unplanned landing in another country, a passport would be helpful.
What About Kids?
If you’re traveling with children under 18, they don’t need ID when flying domestically with an adult who has valid ID. However, it’s a good idea to bring a birth certificate or school ID, especially for lap infants (under age 2) — airlines may ask for proof of age.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1️⃣ Do you need a passport to go to Hawaii if you’re a U.S. citizen?
No, U.S. citizens do not need a passport for travel to Hawaii.
2️⃣ Do you need a passport to fly to Hawaii on a direct flight?
No, a passport is not required for domestic flights between the mainland U.S. and Hawaii.
3️⃣ What ID is required for Hawaii flights?
A REAL ID driver’s license, passport, or other TSA-approved ID.
4️⃣ Can I use a passport card instead of a passport book?
Yes, a passport card is accepted for domestic flights.
5️⃣ What if I don’t have a REAL ID?
You can use a valid U.S. passport or another approved ID.
6️⃣ Do green card holders need a passport to go to Hawaii?
No, a green card is sufficient for domestic travel.
7️⃣ Do minors need ID to fly to Hawaii?
No ID is required for minors traveling with an adult, but proof of age is recommended.
8️⃣ Is a military ID valid for flying to Hawaii?
Yes, military ID is accepted.
9️⃣ Can I fly with a temporary paper driver’s license?
No, TSA requires photo ID, so bring backup identification.
🔟 Will my cruise to Hawaii require a passport?
It depends — if your cruise stops at foreign ports, you’ll need one.
Final Thoughts
So, do you need a passport to go to Hawaii? For U.S. citizens, the answer is no — but you do need proper ID to board your flight. Make sure your driver’s license is REAL ID-compliant, or bring your passport or another TSA-approved document. And if your Hawaii trip involves a cruise or international stopover, check passport requirements well in advance.
With your documents sorted, all that’s left is to soak up the sun, sand, and aloha spirit. Hawaii awaits — enjoy every moment of your island adventure!