Starting May 7, 2025, you will need a REAL ID to fly domestically within the United States, including flying to Hawaii. So, you don’t need a REAL ID to travel to Hawaii in 2024. However, there is some important info to know when you fly within the United States. So, read on!
Table of ContentsPlanning a trip to Hawaii? Have any questions? Join our Hawaii’s Best Travel Facebook group here now! It’s the perfect place to ask any questions and to be inspired!
Affiliate Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning I may earn a small commission if you use the provided link.
Information Disclaimer: This website gives general info and isn’t legal or official advice. It helps travelers with tips but can’t replace personal abilities, fitness, experience, or local knowledge, which you are fully liable for. All activities have risks; assess current conditions and follow local laws and signage.
🏨 Accommodations: We recommend Expedia
✈️ Flights: For the cheapest flights, we use Skyscanner
🌋 Hawaii Tours & Attractions: We recommend Get Your Guide
Confused about whether you’ll need a REAL ID to fly to Hawaii in 2024?
Understanding new identification requirements is crucial for smooth domestic travel as the United States approaches its REAL ID deadline of enforcement on May 7, 2025.
This article will clarify what you need to fly to Hawaii. It will also answer any uncertainties by explaining the REAL ID, when it’s needed, and why it affects your air travel.
Let’s delve into these changing regulations so your tropical vacation plans aren’t left grounded!
A REAL ID is simply a form of ID. It’s a special type of driver’s license or ID card. Homeland Security in the U.S. set new rules for this kind of ID. All domestic flights and visits to federal locations need it starting May 7, 2025.
You can tell if an ID card or driver’s license is REAL ID compliant by looking for a star or flag mark on it.
Getting one is easy! Local DMV offices give out these IDs, just like regular ones but with additional checks done on your data first. Some states even have an “Enhanced” license that also counts as a REAL ID-compliant form of identification.
The U.S. is getting ready for the REAL ID roll-out. Here are key dates and events you need to know:
Go to your state’s driver’s license website for your needed papers. At least, you’ll need to show:
Starting from May 7, 2025, Americans will need a REAL ID compliant card to fly domestically. This means that if you want to take a domestic flight within the United States, you will need to make sure your state driver’s license is REAL ID compliant.
It’s important to note that possessing a passport is also an acceptable form of identification for domestic flights. So if you have a valid passport, you can use it instead of getting a REAL ID compliant card.
The campaign aims to ensure that everyone is prepared and has the necessary identification by the deadline.
Remember, starting from May 7, 2025, your regular state driver’s license will not be enough to board domestic flights or visit federal facilities. Make sure you check if your state’s driver’s license is already REAL ID compliant or if you need to take any steps to obtain a compliant card before the deadline.
Preparing for a Hawaiian vacation? Ensure you’re travel-ready with our article on whether you need a passport to travel to Hawaii. Stay informed and travel smart!
A Real ID is a form of identification that meets higher security standards set by the Real ID Act. It looks like your driver’s license or state-issued ID card but has extra features.
No, if you plan to travel domestically within the United States, like for a trip to Hawaii, you will need a Real ID-compliant form of identification starting from May 7, 2025.
Yes! If you don’t have a REAL ID or prefer not to get one, you can use your valid passport or other acceptable forms of identification defined by TSA for both international and domestic flights.
You can obtain your REAL ID-complaint’s driver license at the same place where you usually renew your driver’s licenses and state ID cards; make sure it’s an agency that issues REAL IDs.
No, after May 7, 2025 deadline all US citizens flying within the country will be required to present either their REAL-ID compliant license or another form such as a passport irrespective of whether it is an international flight or domestic flight like flying over the islands of Hawaii.
No! The school IDs won’t suffice as they are not among TSA-approved Identification documents post this Deadline; hence, people without a valid REAL ID card must carry alternate TSA-approved IDs like a Passport, etc.
No. If you are traveling domestically within the United States, you do not need a REAL ID if you have a valid passport. However, if you are traveling internationally, you’ll need your passport. If you’re traveling within the U.S. just one valid I.D. is enough, like your REAL ID or a passport, but not both.
In conclusion, starting from May 7, 2025, you will need a REAL ID to board domestic flights and access federal facilities in the United States. This includes flying to Hawaii. Make sure to check if your state-issued ID or driver’s license is REAL ID compliant or consider getting a REAL ID-compliant card before your trip.
Remember to visit official government websites for accurate information about the requirements and deadlines.
