Identification requirements for taking a cruise

Here’s a clean version of the blog post on cruise identification requirements without citations:

🛳️ Cruise Identification Requirements in 2025

Planning to set sail in 2025? Whether you're cruising the Caribbean or exploring the Pacific, it’s crucial to bring the right ID. Here's what U.S. citizens and residents need to know before boarding a cruise.

1. Domestic (Closed‑Loop) Cruises

These cruises depart from and return to the same U.S. port.

Acceptable identification includes:

• A U.S. Passport book or card

• An original or certified birth certificate plus a valid government-issued photo ID (like a driver’s license)

• A naturalization certificate plus a photo ID

• An Enhanced Driver’s License (EDL) from select states

Travelers 16 and older must present photo ID. Children under 16 can travel with just a birth certificate.

2. International or One‑Way Cruises

Cruises that depart and return to different ports or travel internationally.

Required identification:

• A U.S. Passport book valid for at least 6 months beyond the return date

• U.S. permanent residents must also carry their Green Card and a valid passport from their country of citizenship

Some destinations may also require visas or electronic travel authorizations, depending on entry requirements.

3. REAL ID and Cruising

REAL ID is not required to board a cruise, but it is required if you’re flying domestically to your cruise departure port. Starting May 7, 2025, you must have a REAL ID–compliant license or use an alternative ID such as:

• A valid U.S. passport

• A passport card

• An Enhanced Driver’s License

• A military ID, Global Entry card, or other TSA-approved identification

✅ At a Glance: What You Need

Cruise Type	Required ID
Closed-loop (domestic)	Passport, or birth certificate + photo ID, or EDL
International / One-way	Passport book (valid 6+ months)
Permanent Residents	Passport from home country + Green Card

✈️ If You’re Flying to Your Port

Don’t forget: REAL ID enforcement is in effect for domestic flights. If you’re flying to your cruise, you must bring either a REAL ID–compliant license or an alternative like a passport.

💡 Pro Tips

• Even if not required, a passport book is the most reliable form of ID—it gives you the most flexibility in emergencies or unexpected changes.

• Always double-check your cruise line’s official travel document guidelines.

• Make sure all IDs are valid, not expired, and easily accessible on embarkation day.

Bottom line:To board most cruises, a passport book is the gold standard. But if you're sticking to a closed-loop cruise, other ID combos might work. Just don’t forget—if you’re flying to your cruise, REAL ID rules now apply.

Happy sailing! 🚢