Hawaii is a dream destination for travelers seeking sun, sand, and unforgettable adventure. Whether you’re planning to surf on the North Shore, hike up volcanoes, or simply unwind on the beach, it’s important to know what documents you need before you go. Many travelers wonder: do you need a passport to go to Hawaii? Or do you need a passport to fly to Hawaii? This guide covers it all — so you can focus on enjoying paradise without travel hiccups.
Do You Need a Passport to Go to Hawaii?
If you’re a U.S. citizen traveling from the mainland, you can breathe easy — you do not need a passport to go to Hawaii. Since Hawaii is a U.S. state, flying there is the same as flying to any other state like New York or Texas. All you need is a valid, TSA-approved ID to board your flight.
If you’d like a complete breakdown of what IDs are accepted and when exceptions apply, check this helpful guide on do you need a passport to go to Hawaii.
Do You Need a Passport to Fly to Hawaii?
A related common question is: do you need a passport to fly to Hawaii? The answer remains no for U.S. citizens taking direct flights from the mainland. However, starting May 7, 2025, all travelers will need a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or another acceptable form of ID to fly domestically — including to Hawaii.
If your driver’s license isn’t REAL ID-compliant, you’ll need to bring another approved ID, such as a U.S. passport, passport card, military ID, or trusted traveler card. You can find detailed ID guidelines in this resource on do you need a passport to fly to Hawaii.
Do I Need a Passport to Fly to Hawaii?
Even travelers who hold green cards or are lawful permanent residents ask, do I need a passport to fly to Hawaii? The answer: No, you don’t. Green card holders can use their permanent resident card as valid ID for domestic flights.
Similarly, children under 18 flying with an adult generally don’t need ID for domestic travel, though proof of age (such as a birth certificate) is wise for lap infants. More information about ID and exceptions is available in this in-depth article on do I need a passport to fly to Hawaii.
When Might You Need a Passport to Fly to Hawaii?
While a passport isn’t required for direct domestic flights, here are some scenarios where having one could be essential:
🌍 Connecting through a foreign country – If your flight to Hawaii connects via Canada, Mexico, or another country.
🚢 Cruises – If your trip includes a cruise visiting foreign ports (such as Mexico), you’ll need a passport.
🛬 Emergency diversions – In rare cases where your flight lands in a foreign country unexpectedly.
To cover all your bases, it can be smart to bring a passport to fly to Hawaii just in case of these unique situations.
TSA-Approved IDs for Hawaii Flights
✅ REAL ID-compliant driver’s license
✅ U.S. passport or passport card
✅ DHS Trusted Traveler Program card (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST)
✅ U.S. military ID
✅ Permanent resident card (Green Card)
✅ Enhanced driver’s license (from select states)
Be sure your ID is valid and unexpired.
How to Get a REAL ID
If you don’t have a REAL ID yet, here’s what you’ll need to do:
📌 Visit your DMV
📌 Bring documents proving your identity, Social Security number, and address
📌 Pay any applicable fee
📌 Get your photo taken
Processing times vary, so apply early before your Hawaii trip!
Travel Documents for Children
Children under 18 aren’t required to show ID when flying domestically with an adult who has valid ID. However, airlines may ask for proof of age for lap infants (under 2 years old). A birth certificate, passport, or medical record copy can serve this purpose.
FAQs About Hawaii Passport Requirements
1️⃣ Do I need a passport to go to Hawaii from California?
No, you don’t need a passport — only valid domestic ID.
2️⃣ Can I use a passport as ID for Hawaii flights?
Yes! Even though it’s not required, a valid U.S. passport is accepted by TSA.
3️⃣ What happens if I have a temporary paper license?
You’ll need an additional TSA-accepted ID — a paper license alone isn’t enough.
4️⃣ What about inter-island flights in Hawaii?
No passport needed — these are also domestic flights.
5️⃣ Do green card holders need a passport for Hawaii?
No — a green card works for TSA ID requirements.
6️⃣ What if my ID isn’t REAL ID-compliant yet?
Bring a valid passport or other acceptable ID.
7️⃣ Do kids need ID to fly to Hawaii?
No ID required for kids under 18 flying with a parent.
8️⃣ Is an expired passport accepted as ID?
No — TSA requires valid, unexpired ID.
9️⃣ Will I need a passport for a Hawaii cruise?
Yes, if the cruise visits foreign ports.
🔟 How do I check if my license is REAL ID-compliant?
Look for a small star in the top right corner.
Final Thoughts
So, do you need a passport to go to Hawaii or do you need a passport to fly to Hawaii? The simple answer is no for U.S. citizens traveling on domestic flights. Just be sure your ID meets TSA requirements, particularly with REAL ID deadlines approaching. A passport is optional but handy for international connections, cruises, or emergencies.
With your documents in order, you can look forward to enjoying Hawaii’s incredible beaches, culture, and adventures. Aloha!