Common Travel Documents Explained

One of the biggest challenges I have as a Travel Agent is making sure that my clients understand the documents that they will need for their trip and how to obtain them (in time). I hope this helps with any confusion!

Let’s start with your basic domestic flight within the U.S. Currently a Real ID is not required, however according to the Department of Homeland Security website, it will be starting May 7, 2025. Until then you will still need to provide a valid photo id and boarding pass to able to fly within the U.S. Acceptable forms are a Driver’s License or ID issued by the state DMV, a Passport or Passport Card. Other forms of ID accepted by the TSA can be found here.

For most cruises that leave from U.S. ports that travel to the Caribbean, Bermuda and the Bahamas, a Passport is not required. A Certified Birth Certificate with a valid government photo id should be enough. While a passport book is not required, I always stress to my clients that I highly suggest they travel with one in case of an emergency. Even on vacation, bad things can happen and it’s better to be prepared. A good example would be this story of someone needing medical attention at a foreign port. Sidenote, this story is also a PERFECT example to always have travel insurance.

All International flights will require a valid passport book, yes that even means to Canada and Mexico.

***Always verify with your travel agent, cruise line, or the TSA website for the most current and up to date information***

A common misconception is that the Birth Certificate you receive from the hospital with the baby’s foot prints is a valid form of id and it is not, only the certified copy from the state of birth can be used for travel and id purposes.

If you cannot locate the certified birth certificate, give yourself time to order one if it is needed to obtain other forms of id or for travel. A quick Google search should direct you to the correct website, usually the Department of Vital Records for that state. Be prepared that some will require the application be notarized and mailed in. Usually, there is also a small fee involved.

With Real ID becoming mandatory May 7, 2025 that means NOW is the time to learn what the requirements are for your state and what additional documents will be needed. There is a tool on the linked website above that allows you to select your state and be directed to their Real ID site for information.

The REAL ID is a state-maintained license or ID that is acceptable for:

· Air travel within the U.S.

· Visiting military bases and restricted federal facilities, like nuclear power plants or the White House

· Driving

· Voting

· Age-restricted purchases

· Accessing federal and social benefit services like VA hospitals, Social Security offices, federal courthouses and more

To apply for a new REAL ID, applicants should bring in the following:

· One (1) valid proof of identity

· One (1) valid proof of Social Security number

· Two (2) valid proofs of residency

· Proof of all legal identity changes (if applicable)

· Additional documentation may be required for minors

Photo courtesy of drive.ky.gov

You will notice in the picture above that the second ID features a star in the upper right-hand side.

Now let’s discuss Passport Books vs Passport Cards. I cannot stress enough the importance of applying for these AS SOON AS POSSIBLE due to possible delays.

Photo Courtesy of travel.state.gov

Passport Cards are used for travel to Mexico, Canada, Bermuda, and the Caribbean by land or sea. They CANNOT be used for air travel.

Passport Books are a valid ID for all forms of travel — land, sea, and air — both internationally and domestically.

The form is the same for all options and the current fees are:

Card $30 + $35 fee

Book $130 + $35 fee

Both $160 + $35 fee

Current processing times are 7-9 weeks for routine applications and for an additional fee of $60 can be bumped up to 7-9 weeks.

There are special circumstances that will allow you to bypass the regular process. Find out more information on those at the U.S. Dept of State website.

Apply in person using the form linked above if you respond "Yes" to at least one of the following statements:

• I am applying for my first U.S. passport.

• I am applying with my child who is under age 16.

• My previous U.S. passport was issued when I was under age 16.

• My previous U.S. passport was lost, stolen, or damaged.

• My previous U.S. passport was issued more than 15 years ago.

Otherwise, you can renew by mail here.

I hope this information has helped clear up any confusion on what documentation is needed for travel and you will soon be on your way to paradise!