Do I Need a Passport to Travel to Hawaii in 2026?
Hawaii is one of the most spectacular destinations in the United States. Its beaches, volcanoes, and tropical landscapes make it a paradise open to tourism year-round.
But before booking your flight, the key question arises:
Do you need a passport to go to Hawaii?
The answer depends on your nationality and where you are traveling from. Below, we explain the updated requirements for 2026.
Do U.S. citizens need a passport to travel to Hawaii?
No.
Hawaii is one of the 50 U.S. states, so traveling from another state (California, Nevada, Texas, etc.) is considered a domestic flight.
U.S. citizens over 18 years old need to present a valid ID. The main options are:
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A REAL ID-compliant driver's license: Identified by a star in the upper corner.
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A valid U.S. passport: Always a safe option if you don't have a REAL ID.
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Another TSA-approved document: Such as military IDs or Global Entry.
REAL ID: required for domestic flights
Since May 7, 2025, the REAL ID rules are fully in effect. This means that a standard driver's license that is not REAL ID-compliant will not be valid for boarding domestic flights.
If you don’t have a compliant ID, you must use your passport.
What happens if I don't have my REAL ID when I arrive at the airport?
Starting February 2026, if you are a U.S. citizen and don’t have a compliant ID, the TSA allows the use of the TSA ConfirmID system. This service costs approximately $45 (subject to change) and allows you to verify your identity through an online form and an additional security process, enabling you to fly even without the physical document at that time.
This process usually takes 15 to 30 minutes and is valid for 10 days for your return trip.
Do permanent residents need a passport to go to Hawaii?
No.
Permanent residents in the U.S. (Green Card holders) can travel to Hawaii with:
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Their valid residence card.
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A REAL ID-compliant ID.
Since it is a domestic flight, a passport is not required.
Do foreigners need a passport to travel to Hawaii?
Yes.
If you are traveling to Hawaii from outside the United States, you must meet the same entry requirements as for any other U.S. destination.
You will need:
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A valid passport.
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A U.S. visa.
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An approved ESTA (if your country is part of the Visa Waiver Program).
Do I need a visa or ESTA for Hawaii?
U.S. citizens
They do not need a visa or ESTA to travel to Hawaii.
Foreign citizens
It depends on your country:
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If your country is part of the Visa Waiver Program, you can apply for an ESTA for stays up to 90 days for tourism or business.
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If your country is not part of the program, you must apply for a tourist visa B1/B2 at the corresponding embassy or consulate.
Important: ESTA does not replace a passport. Traveling with a valid passport is always mandatory.
Do minors need a passport to travel to Hawaii?
On domestic flights (within the U.S.)
Minors under 18 do not need to present official identification if traveling with an adult.
However, each airline may require additional documentation, especially for unaccompanied minors.
On international flights
All minors, including infants, must have:
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A valid passport
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ESTA or visa (depending on nationality).
Other requirements for traveling to Hawaii
In addition to the main documentation, it is recommended to have:
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A passport with sufficient validity (in some cases, 6 months validity is required depending on your country of origin).
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Travel insurance (not mandatory, but highly recommended due to the high cost of healthcare in the U.S.).
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Accommodation booking and return ticket (may be requested by immigration authorities).
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Agricultural declaration upon arrival in Hawaii, as the state has strict controls to protect its ecosystem.
Digital Agricultural Declaration
Protect the ecosystem! Hawaii is very strict about the entry of plants or food.
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New in 2026: You can now complete the agricultural declaration form digitally before boarding through the official state website. This will save you time upon arrival.
