Travel Within the U.S.

Do I need authorization from ISS for travel inside the U.S.?

No.

What documents do I need for travel inside the U.S.?

You will not pass through immigration when traveling within the U.S. However, to board a commercial transport such as a plane or ship, you will need to show an official government issued identification document such as your passport, Employment Authorization Document (EAD) (for students on OPT or STEM OPT), or a U.S. State ID or U.S. driver¡¯s license.

We recommend that students bring their original immigration documents when traveling off island, including a valid passport and Form I-20 or DS-2019 in the event that you need to show proof of lawful immigration status in the U.S.

Contact your airline directly if you have any questions about what documents you need in order to travel.

What is REAL ID-compliant identification?

Beginning? May 7, 2025, all individuals, aged 18 and older,? including F-1 and J-1 international students must present when flying domestically or accessing certain federal facilities in the U.S. and any additional purposes designated by the U.S Department of Homeland Security? (DHS).?

A REAL ID is a state-issued driver's license or identification card that meets enhanced federal security standards. It is typically marked with a gold star in the upper right corner. Check if your or is REAL ID-compliant - look for the ¡° star in a gold circle¡± symbol.

Sample of Hawaii State ID and Driver License with the Gold Star Real-ID compliant mark circled in red and pointed at with a red arrow.

Acceptable Forms of ID for Domestic Travel?

If you do not have a U.S. government issued driver¡¯s license or state ID that is , you may use any one of the following:?

  • Valid foreign passport (must be unexpired)
  • Employment Authorization Document (EAD) ¨C for students on OPT or STEM OPT

See the official list on the

Resources:?

TSA Statement: ?

TSA REAL ID Information:

REAL ID FAQs by DHS: ?

What is ¡°within the U.S.?¡±

Places that are considered within the U.S. include the islands of Hawai¡¯i, the other U.S. states, and some U.S. territories (Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands). American Samoa is a U.S. territory, but has its own immigration system for visitors.

What should I expect when traveling within the U.S.?

There are still limitations on items you can transport within the U.S., especially when traveling between Hawai?i and the U.S. mainland. Review information on the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) website to learn more about general security screening, carry-on and checked baggage restrictions, identification requirements, and travel tips.