No passport? US citizens can still visit Puerto Rico, the US Virgin Islands, and other stunning destinations. Here's where to go with just your driver's license.
No passport? No problem. US citizens can visit some stunning destinations without ever renewing that blue book. Here's where you can go with just your driver's license and birth certificate.
US Territories: Full Access, No Passport
According to USA.gov, US citizens don't need a passport to travel to any US territory. These destinations offer international vibes without the international paperwork.
Puerto Rico
The most popular passport-free destination, Puerto Rico combines Caribbean beaches with Spanish colonial history. San Juan's colorful streets, El Yunque rainforest, and Vieques' bioluminescent bays are all accessible with just your driver's license.
Flying to Puerto Rico works exactly like a domestic flight. No passport, no birth certificate, just TSA-approved ID.
US Virgin Islands
Three main islands, three different personalities:
- St. Thomas: The cruise ship hub with duty-free shopping and Caribbean sailing
- St. John: Two-thirds national park with pristine hiking trails and quiet beaches
- St. Croix: The largest island, known for beaches, local culture, and fewer crowds
Pacific Territories
Further afield, US citizens can also visit:
- Guam: Tropical Pacific island with Japanese and Chamorro influences
- Northern Mariana Islands: 14 islands including Saipan, with WWII history and stunning diving
- American Samoa: Remote Polynesian islands with traditional culture
Closed-Loop Cruises
Cruises that depart from and return to the same US port don't require a passport for US citizens. This means you can visit Caribbean islands, Mexico, Canada, and Alaska on a cruise without passport paperwork.
You'll need:
- Government-issued photo ID (if over 16)
- Certified birth certificate
However, if something goes wrong and you need to fly home from a foreign port, you'll face complications without a passport. Many cruise lines still recommend having one for emergencies.
Hawaii (Of Course)
It seems obvious, but worth mentioning: Hawaii is a US state, so no passport is needed. The islands offer everything from volcanic landscapes to world-class beaches, all accessible with standard domestic travel documents.
What You DO Need
For air travel to US territories:
- REAL ID: Starting May 2025, you need a REAL ID-compliant license or another TSA-accepted ID for domestic flights
- Birth certificate: Some destinations and cruise lines require a certified copy
- Standard ID: Driver's license or state ID
Where You WILL Need a Passport
Don't confuse US territories with foreign Caribbean nations. These popular destinations require passports:
- The Bahamas
- Jamaica
- Dominican Republic
- Aruba, Bonaire, Curaçao
- Turks and Caicos
- All of Europe (including the Schengen Area)
Important for Green Card Holders: Passport-free travel to US territories only applies to US citizens. If you're a lawful permanent resident, you need your passport and green card even for Puerto Rico or the Virgin Islands.
Planning European Travel?
If you're considering Europe, you will need a valid passport. Americans can visit the Schengen Area visa-free for up to 90 days, but only with a passport valid for at least 3 months beyond your departure date.
Use our Schengen calculator to plan your European trips, or download the Days Monitor app to track your 90-day allowance.
Disclaimer: Travel requirements can change. Always verify current documentation requirements with USA.gov and your airline before traveling.
Track Your Schengen Days
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