Do You Need a Passport To Go To Las Vegas?

With the introduction of new id systems in the US, some air travelers are confused about what identification they need to travel within the country.

Las Vegas is one popular travel destination that attracts visitors from inside the US and around the world. 

But do you need a passport to go to Las Vegas?

US citizens can travel to Las Vegas by air or land without the need for a passport, as long as they have a REAL ID. All passengers on international flights into Las Vegas will need to provide a passport when they enter the US. 

Traveling to Las Vegas

Flying to Las Vegas is just like flying into any other US city. US citizens can travel between US cities without needing a passport and only require their driver’s license currently. 

The REAL ID Act is updating rules for domestic flights.

The REAL ID Act goes into effect starting May 3, 2023. This requires all air passengers age 18 and up on US domestic flights to have a REAL ID-compliant identification with them. 

REAL IDs can include passports, military ids, enhanced driver’s licenses, and updated driver’s licenses. 

You can tell if your driver’s license is a REAL ID by checking the upper, righthand corner of the license. 

If it has a star printed there, it’s a REAL ID. If it doesn’t have this star, it’s time to update your license. International flights to any US airport require customs screenings. 

If you fly to Las Vegas from outside of the US, you’ll have to present a passport upon arrival and have a filled-out customs form. 

You also don’t need a passport if you drive to Las Vegas. A normal driver’s license is all that’s required to get there.

Things to do in Las Vegas

While there is ample opportunity to gamble while in Las Vegas, visitors don’t have to gamble to have a good time. 

Las Vegas is one of the entertainment capitols of the world and there’s never a shortage of things to do. 

One thing to keep in mind is that while Las Vegas has become more family-friendly over the years, it’s still an adult destination. 

Even if you don’t plan to drink, most casinos, nightclubs, and venues require guests to show an ID that proves they’re above the legal drinking age of 21. 

Las Vegas also has a strict curfew for minors, not allowing unaccompanied minors on the streets after 9 PM local time. 

Bouncers, bartenders, and security guards regularly check IDs so don’t expect to slide under the radar. 

The food scene in Las Vegas is world-class, with many famous chefs keeping a namesake restaurant open on the strip. 

Gordon Ramsey, Guy Fierri, Wolfgang Puck, and Nobu Matsuhisa are notable examples. 

Hotels and casinos also put on some of the best buffets you could dream of, with food you’d never expect to be served buffet-style. 

There are always spectacular shows happening in Vegas as well. From magic shows to famous singers and performers, everyone will find something that fits their tastes. 

Just walking down the strip is an adventure. Street performers, bars, small gambling venues, and plenty of activities are all available right on the street.

While the strip runs 24/7, you can get outside of Las Vegas for a little peace and quiet. 

You can experience the desert and enjoy the natural beauty of Red Rock Canyon, located just 17 miles outside of the city. 

Three or four days is an ideal trip length for Las Vegas. 

You can spend the entire time in a resort hotel, gambling and partying, or experiencing the grandeur of Vegas and not feel like you’ve missed everything in that period. 

Just keep in mind that Las Vegas is not a cheap place to visit. You can always find good deals and be smart with your money, but the best restaurants, bars, and clubs are very expensive. 

If you do choose to gamble, it’s recommended you set a gambling budget and stick to it. Don’t budget more than you can afford to lose while enjoying the games available on the casino floor.

Also, keep in mind that the sinful reputation of Las Vegas is overhyped. 

While you can drink on the street, there are still normal laws and rules you must follow and you can get in trouble while there. 

Does Las Vegas Have COVID Restrictions?

Las Vegas follows all COVID regulations for the state of Nevada, but thankfully most of these restrictions are lifted. 

There are no mask mandates and you shouldn’t have issues as a traveler while visiting Las Vegas.

There are still stringent cleaning requirements for hospitality services, so you should currently expect some additional layers of safety in place. 

Travelers coming from outside of the US also have to meet federal mandates and restrictions. 

As of June 12, air travelers coming to the US no longer have to show a negative COVID test or proof of recovery before boarding their flight. 

Non-US citizens must still provide proof of vaccination to enter the country. 

There aren’t any nationwide restrictions in place at this time. Federal mandates for masks, vaccinations, or social distancing are not currently enforced. 

The CDC recommends all air passengers wait until they are fully vaccinated to travel to or around the US. 

You will be required to show proof of your fully vaccinated status before boarding a plane that will enter the United States.

Conclusion

US citizens don’t need a passport to travel to Las Vegas on domestic flights or by driving. 

All passengers on international flights must provide a valid passport and submit customs forms when they enter the US, regardless of where they have come from. 

There’s plenty to do in Las Vegas, from gambling and shows to fine dining and sporting venues. 

The city is one of the best entertainment cities in the world for a reason and this is what has allowed it to attract visitors from around the world.