Planning a cruise can be a thrilling experience but can also be a daunting task, especially when it comes to ensuring that you have the right travel documentation. The most common form of identification needed for cruise travel is a passport book, but there are alternative travel documents that are also accepted.
These are for United States citizens and Lawful Permanent Residents only.
Here’s a comprehensive list of alternative documents accepted for cruise travel:
Table of Contents
Passport Card
The passport card is a wallet-sized travel document that can be used for land and sea travel between the United States and Mexico, Canada, the Caribbean, and Bermuda. It’s a cheap and convenient alternative to a passport book, costing only $30 for first-time applicants, and $15 for renewals. Keep in mind that the passport card cannot be used for international air travel or travel outside of the aforementioned countries.
Enhanced Driver’s License
The Enhanced Driver’s License (EDL) is a state-issued ID that can be used as both a driver’s license and a travel document for land and sea travel between the United States, Mexico, Canada, and the Caribbean. Not all states offer the EDL, so make sure to check if your state does. The EDL requires additional documentation and fees compared to a regular driver’s license.
Trusted Traveler Program (TTP) Cards
TTP cards are issued to members of the Trusted Traveler Program. There are four programs under the TTP, each with its own card:
Global Entry
Global Entry allows expedited clearance for pre-approved, low-risk travelers upon arrival in the United States. The Global Entry card also serves as a valid passport card and is accepted for cruise travel.
NEXUS
NEXUS is a joint program between the United States and Canada that allows expedited clearance for pre-approved, low-risk travelers entering the United States or Canada. The NEXUS card is accepted for land and sea travel between the two countries.
SENTRI
SENTRI is a program that allows expedited clearance for pre-approved, low-risk travelers entering the United States from Mexico. The SENTRI card is accepted for land and sea travel between the United States and Mexico.
FAST
FAST is a program that allows expedited clearance for commercial truck drivers entering the United States from Canada or Mexico. The FAST card is accepted for land and sea travel.
U.S. Military Identification
Active-duty military members and their dependents can use their military identification cards for cruise travel.
U.S. Merchant Mariner Document
If you are a crewmember or an officer working on a U.S. flagged vessel, you can use your U.S. Merchant Mariner Document for cruise travel.
Birth Certificate with a Government Issued Photo Identification
If you are a U.S. citizen, you can use a birth certificate along with a government-issued photo identification for cruise travel. However, make sure to check if the port of entry requires a Real ID or an Enhanced Driver’s License.
Real ID
A Real ID is a government-issued identification that meets federal standards for identification. It’s required for domestic air travel and entry into federal facilities.
Enhanced Driver’s License
An Enhanced Driver’s License (EDL) is a state-issued ID that meets the Real ID requirements.
Passport Book
A passport book is also an acceptable form of identification when used in conjunction with a birth certificate.
Can I Use Expedited Passports as an Alternative Document for Cruise Travel?
Yes, you can use expedited passports for cruising plans. Many cruise lines accept expedited passports as an alternative travel document. It’s essential to check with your specific cruise line to ensure they accept expedited passports for cruising plans before your scheduled trip.
NEXUS Card
The NEXUS card is accepted for land and sea travel between the United States and Canada.
Make sure to check with your cruise line and the port of entry to ensure that the alternative travel document you plan to use is accepted. Keep in mind that international travel requirements and travel restrictions can change quickly, so it’s important to stay up-to-date.
In conclusion, having the right travel documentation is essential for a smooth cruise travel experience. Whether you’re using a passport card, an enhanced driver’s license, a TTP card, a military ID, a Merchant Mariner Document, or a birth certificate, make sure to have a valid and acceptable form of identification.