Do I need a Passport to travel?

This is one of the most asked questions. For most forms of travel outside the US, the answer is yes. A passport is a necessary document, you can't cross borders with out it. Passports confirm one's citizenship and work as identification documents during travel. Passports are required for all persons, including children.

When do I need a passport to fly? You will need a passport for international travel. It’s not necessary to have it for home travels within the US. Otherwise, it’s always better to have a passport prepared either way.

What about a passport card? A passport card issued by the United States Government can be used solemnly for travels inside the US as well as an identification document there. If you want to travel further, leave the country, obtain a visa, etc. – you will need a full passport book.

What Happens If I Travel Without a Passport?

If you try to travel to another country that requires a passport without one, you will not be allowed to enter.

The most likely scenario is that you will be prevented from boarding transport by the staff on duty. If you managed to avoid that situation, you could be blocked from entering your destination by border authorities upon arrival.

Where Can US Citizens Travel without a Passport?

US Citizens can travel to a number of places in North America and the Caribbean without the need for a passport.

The overseas destinations that Americans can visit without a passport include:

By plane:

• St Thomas

• St John

• St Croix

• Hawaii

• Puerto Rico

• Mariana Islands

• Guam

• American Samoa

What about cruising? I heard I don't need a passport to cruise!

If your cruise departs and returns to the same US port, then you are not required to have a passport. You will be required to have a state issued ID as well as a certified birth certificate. Having a passport will make embarkation and debarkation a much simpler process.

Cruises from ports outside the US, or to certain countries will require a passport. Check with your cruise line and countries visiting for any specific requirements.

TSA PreCheck ® VS GLOBAL ENTRY®

TSA PreCheck® and Global Entry are both Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Trusted Traveler Programs. TSA PreCheck® provides expedited security screening benefits for flights departing from U.S. Airports. Global Entry provides expedited U.S. customs screening for international air travelers when entering the United States. Global Entry members also receive TSA PreCheck® benefits as part of their membership.

Some TSA PreCheck® benefits are:

Once your known traveler number is added to your flight reservation, your ticket will be given the TSA Precheck stamp of approval. This is what gives you access to an expedited airport security line. When you’re in the Precheck security line, you no longer need to remove your shoes, belt or light jacket before clearing airport security. You can even leave your laptop and your TSA-approved liquids and gels in your carry-on.

Some Global Entry benefits are:

Trusted Travelers with Global Entry membership can use Global Entry Customs Kiosks when reentering the United States, eliminating the need for an in-person customs interview and allowing travelers to skip the process of filling out customs paperwork. Global Entry Kiosks use fingerprint verification to confirm identity, and travelers can complete their customs declaration at the kiosk.

Plus, Global Entry membership automatically includes TSA Precheck membership-which means that travelers with Global Entry can enjoy a faster screening process whether they’re traveling domestically or returning to the United States after a trip abroad.

For more information, go to TSA PreCheck® | Transportation Security Administration