Where Can You Go Without a Passport? Your 2025 Guide for US Travelers

No passport? No problem. US citizens can visit places like Puerto Rico, the US Virgin Islands, Guam, and American Samoa with just a government-issued photo ID, like a driver’s license. Closed-loop cruises are also allowed with these documents.

It’s a simple way to travel more, even if your passport is expired or missing. Stay prepared with the right ID—many flights now require a Real ID.

For more travel tips and must-have gear, check out our Travel Gear and Accessories Catalog.

US States: Mainland and Beyond

Traveling within the United States opens up a huge range of experiences, all without needing a passport. Whether you feel like road tripping across the mainland or heading out to the islands, US citizens can explore all 50 states freely. Key rules and tips make your trip smooth and hassle-free.

Mainland US Travel: ID Requirements for US Citizens

You don’t need a passport to travel between US states. A state-issued driver’s license, military ID, Green Card, or trusted traveler card is enough for flying or taking a train. Make sure your ID is current and matches your ticket name. Kids under 18 traveling with an adult don’t need an ID.

After May 7, 2025, you’ll need a Real ID or another TSA-approved ID to fly, so check your license for a gold star and update it if needed. For road trips or bus travel, a regular driver’s license is still all you need. For easy ways to keep your travel items in order, check out the Travel Organization section.

Hawaii: A Tropical Escape Without a Passport

No passport needed for Hawaii—just bring your Real ID or another TSA-approved ID. Surf, hike, see a volcano, or enjoy local food and culture, all with just your driver’s license.

What to know before heading to Hawaii:

• No customs check for domestic arrivals.
• Island hopping between Oahu, Maui, Kauai, and the Big Island is as simple as booking a local flight.
• Bring a driver’s license or state ID for flights, hotel check-ins, car rentals, and age-restricted activities.

Looking for unique experiences? Get ideas on family activities in paradise. Don’t forget, things are casual here—even fancy dinners might mean flip-flops and aloha shirts. Hawaii makes it easy to answer the question, “where can you go without a passport?” It’s a quick ticket to tropical relaxation with no international paperwork.

US Territories: No Passport Needed

If you’re wondering where you can go without a passport, the answer includes several sunny and fascinating US territories. These tropical getaways are part of the United States, so US citizens can visit with minimal paperwork. All it takes is a government-issued photo ID, usually a driver’s license.

No customs lines, no international entry forms—just hop a flight and start your adventure. Here’s what you need to know about these no-passport-required destinations, from the Caribbean to the Pacific.

Puerto Rico: No Passport, No Problem

Puerto Rico feels like an international trip with the convenience of domestic travel. Since it’s a US territory, American citizens don’t need a passport to visit. Just bring a valid state-issued photo ID. If you’re flying from the US mainland, you won’t even go through customs. It’s as easy as traveling to any other US state.

Must-have documentation includes:

• State driver’s license or Real ID
• For minors, a birth certificate (if traveling with adults)

Puerto Rico offers rich culture, history, and stunning beaches. Don’t miss:

• The colorful streets of Old San Juan, lined with 16th-century forts and blue cobblestone lanes.
• El Yunque National Forest, the only tropical rainforest in the US.
• Flamenco Beach on Culebra Island, often ranked among the world’s most beautiful beaches.

You’ll enjoy vibrant food, salsa music in the plazas, and friendly locals everywhere. For added reassurance about documentation, the USA.gov guide on visiting US territories breaks down ID needs.

US Virgin Islands: Paradise Without the Passport

The US Virgin Islands, including St. Thomas, St. John, and St. Croix, offer a classic Caribbean escape with no passport necessary. US citizens just need a government-issued photo ID to enter. Air travel is treated like a domestic flight, making the process quick and easy.

When planning your trip, bring:

• Driver’s license or Real ID for all adults
• Minors should have a birth certificate

Each island has its own vibe:

• St. Thomas: Bustling port, vibrant nightlife, and world-class shopping.
• St. John: Home to the Virgin Islands National Park, it’s perfect for hiking and quiet beaches.
• St. Croix: Known for its rich history, rum distilleries, and laid-back style.

Popular attractions include the scenic drive to Drake’s Seat on St. Thomas and snorkeling at Trunk Bay in St. John. For beach lovers, Buck Island’s underwater trail is a must-see. For more trip inspiration, check out Travel Channel’s no-passport-required destinations.

Guam: Pacific Adventure, Easy Entry

Guam offers a unique blend of American comfort and Pacific Island culture. As a US territory, no passport is needed for US citizens. All you need is a state-issued photo ID or a Real ID for entry.

Getting to Guam usually means a longer flight, often connecting through Hawaii or major West Coast hubs. Flights are operated by US and international carriers, so choose the route that fits your schedule.

While on Guam, explore:

• Tumon Bay’s white-sand beaches and vibrant nightlife.
• War in the Pacific National Historical Park, which highlights WWII history.
• Two Lovers Point, a dramatic cliffside lookout with panoramic ocean views.

You’ll find a rich mix of Chamorro, American, and Asian influences in the food and culture. Confirm Guam’s travel documentation at USA.gov: travel to Guam and territories.

Northern Mariana Islands: Easy Access, Faraway Feel

The Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI) sits in the western Pacific but requires no passport for US citizens on direct flights from the US or Guam. Bring your government-issued photo ID, and you’re set.

The islands are made up of Saipan, Tinian, and Rota:

• Saipan: The largest island, known for beaches, World War II sites, and Grotto diving.
• Tinian: Visit historic relics and pristine beaches—this is where the Enola Gay took off before dropping the first atomic bomb.
• Rota: Peaceful and less developed, perfect for quiet nature walks and authentic local culture.

Each island offers its own highlights, blending Pacific traditions with American ease. Saipan’s stunning turquoise lagoons and dramatic cliffs make the long journey worthwhile. For a deeper look at Northern Mariana destinations, see Condé Nast Traveler’s guide to US territories without a passport.

American Samoa: Wild Beauty, Simple Travel

American Samoa brings you wild Pacific beauty and deep-rooted Samoan culture. US citizens just need a government-issued photo ID—no passport or customs if arriving from another US territory. Most flights connect through Hawaii or Samoa.

Highlights include the National Park of American Samoa with lush jungles and rare fruit bats, traditional villages, and quiet beaches on Tutuila. For a real off-the-map escape, it’s hard to top. Find reliable gear for your trip in our Travel Gear and Accessories Catalog.

These US territories offer natural beauty and vibrant cultures, all passport-free. With your ID, your next trip is closer than you think.

Border Travel: Land and Sea

Travel beyond the mainland US is possible without a passport, but the rules depend on how and where you cross the border. Some options open more destinations, while others need careful planning.

This section explains how closed-loop cruises, land travel to neighboring countries, and traveling to Alaska fit into the answer for “where can you go without a passport.”

Closed-Loop Cruises Without a Passport: What You Need to Know

Closed-loop cruises begin and end at the same US port, letting US citizens visit the Bahamas, Bermuda, the Caribbean, and Mexico without a passport. Bring a state-issued driver’s license (or enhanced license), plus a certified birth certificate. A US Passport Card is optional.

Popular routes sail from Florida, Texas, California, and East Coast ports. Some destinations may still ask for a passport, and you’ll need one if you must fly home unexpectedly. Check Places to Cruise Without a Passport for details, and review required cruise documents for the latest rules.

Driving to Canada or Mexico: Border Rules and Myths

You can’t just drive into Canada or Mexico with a standard ID anymore.

For Canada, you’ll need a US passport, NEXUS card, or enhanced driver’s license (EDL) from states like Michigan or New York. Adults need one of these IDs; kids under 16 (or under 19 with a school group) can use a birth certificate. Border agents usually won’t accept just a license and birth certificate. Check official Canadian entry ID rules.

For Mexico, US citizens need a valid passport book, passport card, or EDL to drive across. If you’ll go past the border zone, get an entry permit (FMM). Children need a birth certificate, and you’ll want Mexican auto insurance. See the latest Mexico border travel guide.

If your state issues EDLs, you can skip the passport for land or sea crossings (not flights). Travel rules can change fast—always double-check requirements with US Customs or DHS cross-border info before you go.

Driving to Alaska Without a Passport

You don’t need a passport to fly to Alaska—your Real ID or state-issued photo ID works like any domestic trip. Driving is different since you cross into Canada. You’ll need a valid US passport or an enhanced driver’s license at the border.

Kids under 16 can use a birth certificate. No entry without proper ID, so check if your state offers enhanced licenses; if not, bring a passport. The Alaska Marine Highway ferry often stops in Canada, so a passport is recommended unless your route stays in the US.

If you’d rather skip Canada, fly straight to Alaska with your Real ID. For more details, see this Alaska border guide and read real road trip tips on border crossings.

Planning a road trip or cruise? Check out our travel gear and accessories to stay organized.

Bring the right ID, and you’re set to travel without a passport—by car or by ship.

Places to Travel Without a Passport

If you’ve ever wondered, “where can you go without a passport?” you’ll be surprised that your options stretch well beyond the mainland US.

There’s a collection of US territories and tropical destinations that offer the excitement of travel without any international paperwork. Next, let’s break down exactly where you can visit, the warm escapes that top the list, and how easy it is compared to far-flung international stops.

You don’t need a passport to visit any US state or territory as a US citizen. Just bring a valid government-issued ID, like a driver’s license or Real ID. This means you can explore all 50 states, experience the history and monuments of Washington, DC, or fly to Puerto Rico for beaches and rainforest hikes, all without the extra paperwork.

The US Virgin Islands invite you to relax on Caribbean beaches and shop or snorkel, while Guam gives you Pacific island views and World War II sites. In the Northern Mariana Islands, enjoy clear water, scenic beaches, and cultural history, and in American Samoa, find remote sands, national parks, and a Polynesian vibe.

Book a direct flight or connect through a US city, and keep your ID handy. For packing advice and an easy pre-trip checklist, see this Trip planning guide.

Best Tropical Places to Visit Without a Passport

If sunshine is your top priority, these locations bring the warm-weather vibes—no passport required.

• Puerto Rico: Sun-kissed beaches and Spanish colonial streets make Puerto Rico feel like a tropical vacation with the comfort of American convenience. Surf on the west coast, dance to salsa in San Juan, or kayak in the bioluminescent bays.
• US Virgin Islands: St. Thomas, St. John, and St. Croix each have their own personality. Lounge on white-sand beaches, hike through lush parks, and snorkel with sea turtles—just show your ID at the airport and you’re set.
• Guam: Set in the Pacific, Guam is perfect for beach lovers and travelers eager to discover Pacific island culture. Warm weather all year lets you dive coral reefs or relax under palm trees with views you’d expect from a remote getaway.
• Northern Mariana Islands: Saipan, Tinian, and Rota offer untouched beaches, glowing blue lagoons, and rich World War II history. These islands are less visited, so you can soak in peace and wide-open nature.
• Hawaii: Though a state, Hawaii delivers classic tropical scenery—think luaus, volcanoes, and hidden waterfalls. It’s accessible and diverse enough for every type of traveler.

These spots let US citizens enjoy postcard-perfect views and island culture without the extra paperwork. For a peek at what’s waiting, you’ll find a helpful list of No-Passport-Required Destinations from Travel Channel, packed with ideas for your next beach escape.

Comparison: Passport-Free vs. International Travel

Choosing a passport-free trip can be a smart move. Here’s how it stacks up against traveling internationally:

Cost:

• Passport-free destinations cut costs—no application or renewal fees, no rush processing, and no expediting needed.
• Flights to US territories sometimes run higher, given fewer options, but you save on time and paperwork.

Convenience:

• Domestic and territory travel means no customs lines, visa hassles, or losing days waiting for documents.
• Booking is hassle-free—just compare tickets with easy flight booking options and go.
• Traveling with kids or in a group? Fewer paperwork headaches and last-minute surprises.

Culture & Experience:

• No-passport spots in the US and its territories offer a mix of cultures—Latin, Caribbean, Pacific, and more—without needing to leave American soil.
• International destinations introduce new languages, currencies, and entry requirements. There’s a true sense of “abroad,” but it comes with more prep.
• Places like Puerto Rico or Guam let you blend the fun of foreign cultures with US familiarity. You can dive into salsa, island food, and diverse traditions with less stress.

Curious about the international alternatives? Travel + Leisure’s guide explains select places where Americans can skip the passport (or where the process is extra easy). Whether you stay under the US flag or cross a border, the right choice often comes down to how much paperwork you want to tackle—and how quickly you want to put your toes in the sand.

With these options, answering “where can you go without a passport?” means exploring more than you might expect, all while keeping your travel simple and stress-free.

What to Know Before You Go

Before you pack your bags for a passport-free getaway, there are important things every US traveler should understand. From making sure your ID is the right type to planning for unexpected hiccups like lost documentation, preparation is key. The good news? Knowing what to expect helps you relax and focus on enjoying your trip, whether you’re heading to a sunny US territory or hopping between states.

ID Requirements for Domestic Flights and Travel

 

For most destinations where you can go without a passport, the right identification is essential:

• Adults flying within the United States, including Alaska and US territories, must show a government-issued photo ID at airport security.
• Children under 18 do not need their own ID for domestic flights, but airlines may ask for proof of age (like a birth certificate) when children are flying alone or with adults other than parents.

Starting May 7, 2025, the TSA will require all adult travelers to present a REAL ID-compliant license (look for the gold star), a US passport, or another accepted credential for domestic flights. If you haven’t upgraded your license yet, find out what’s accepted on the TSA’s official identification list and how to get a REAL ID for travel.

Other forms of ID accepted for domestic travel:

• US military ID
• Permanent Resident Card (Green Card)
• DHS trusted traveler cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI)

Always travel with your most current and valid ID. Double-check the expiration date before your trip.

Planning With Children or Groups

Traveling with kids, family, or a group? Here’s what to expect to keep things simple:

• Kids under 18: Usually do not need a photo ID for domestic flights. Still, carrying a copy of their birth certificate or health insurance card can help if questions come up.
• Groups and school trips: Some airlines or destinations might ask for a group roster, signed authorization from parents, or additional documentation, especially when not flying with parents or guardians. Talk to your carrier in advance to confirm requirements.
• Cruises: When boarding closed-loop cruises (departing and arriving at the same US port), children often need a certified birth certificate in place of a passport.

Guides like the FAA’s information on minors and travel identification offer more clarity for family trips.

If Your ID is Lost or Stolen

Losing your identification can turn travel plans upside down. Act fast to reduce mishaps:

1. File a police report at your destination or notify authorities if your ID is stolen. You’ll need documentation to start recovery.
2. Contact the airline or cruise company; explain the situation, as they have procedures for travelers in this bind, including additional screening or alternate forms of ID.
3. Go to the nearest US embassy or consulate if abroad in an emergency.
4. Replace state IDs at the local DMV or government office. For lost passports, consult the State Department’s steps for lost or stolen passports.
5. Keep digital and paper copies. Store backup copies of your important documents (ID, birth certificate) somewhere safe but accessible. A photo on your phone or a printout in your luggage adds backup peace of mind.

Traveling to US Territories: Extra Reminders

Where can you go without a passport and still feel like it’s an international trip? The US Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico, Guam, Northern Mariana Islands, and American Samoa all qualify. The main requirement for US citizens: show a government-issued ID to enter, not a passport.

When heading to these territories:

• Some airlines may check return tickets or proof of residence—keep records handy.
• Carry a Real ID if possible for quicker airport experiences.
• For exit checks and re-entry, be ready to confirm your citizenship, as emphasized in the official US territories travel rules.
• Groups should carry a list of all travelers and their ID information for smooth passage.

You can find more about entry documents and what’s needed for destinations like St. Croix in these helpful passport requirement details.

Document Backups and Travel Smart

Smooth trips start with smart organization. For every place where you can go without a passport, a few planning steps make all the difference:

• Pack more than one form of ID if possible.
• Store digital scans or photos of your IDs in a secure app or cloud storage.
• Print copies of child birth certificates if you’re traveling with minors.
• Keep emergency contacts and travel insurance info handy.

If you’re looking for helpful tips on staying organized while traveling, check out this Travel Organization section for practical products and ideas.

Final Tips for Hassle-Free, Passport-Free Travel

• Double-check entry and ID requirements shortly before your trip, as rules can change.
• For land and sea crossings outside of the US into places like Canada or Mexico, know which documents are accepted—enhanced driver licenses are sometimes eligible for land entry but not for flights or all ports.
• For Alaska by car, the best guide on driving border requirements will keep your plans on track.
• If you’re unsure about documentation, it’s safer to carry extra authorizations and copies than to scramble later.

Knowing these details gives you the confidence to explore everywhere you can go without a passport, without last-minute surprises.

FAQs – Destinations Without a Passport

Not sure how passport-free travel works? You’re not alone. Many US travelers want quick, clear info on where they can go with just an ID. Here are the top questions about passport-free trips—covering what you need, where you can go, and what to expect.

Which places can US citizens travel to without a passport?
US citizens can travel without a passport to all 50 states, Washington, DC, and US territories, which include Puerto Rico, the US Virgin Islands, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands, and American Samoa. You just need a valid government-issued photo ID, like a driver’s license or Real ID, for flights and most hotel check-ins.

Do you need a passport for Puerto Rico or the US Virgin Islands?
You don’t need a passport for trips to Puerto Rico or the US Virgin Islands if you’re a US citizen. Both destinations are part of the US, so a state-issued photo ID works for entry and airport security. For kids under 18, airlines may ask for a birth certificate when flying, especially if they aren’t traveling with a parent.

What documents are needed for a closed-loop cruise?
For closed-loop cruises (departing and returning to the same US port), US citizens generally need a state-issued photo ID and an original or certified copy of their birth certificate. A passport isn’t required, but bring one if you have it in case you need to fly home from a foreign port unexpectedly.

Can you visit Hawaii or Alaska without a passport?
Hawaii and Alaska are states, so no passport is needed for US citizens. Flying between the mainland and either state only requires a valid photo ID, such as a driver’s license or a Real ID. If you drive to Alaska through Canada, you’ll need a passport or an enhanced driver’s license at the Canadian border, but direct flights from the US don’t require one.

What kind of ID is accepted for travel to US territories?
A state-issued driver’s license, a Real ID, a US military ID, or a government-issued photo ID is accepted for travel to US territories. After May 7, 2025, a Real ID or another TSA-approved ID will be needed for domestic flights, including those to US territories. Kids flying with an adult generally don’t need an ID, but it’s smart to bring a birth certificate for smooth travel.

Conclusion

You can see more without a passport than you might think. US citizens can use a government-issued photo ID to visit every state, US territories like Puerto Rico and Guam, and even join closed-loop cruises. Skip the extra paperwork and enjoy simple, flexible trips.

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Explore new spots, share your tips below, and have a great trip!