If you travel to the Bahamas by sea (like a cruise), you can use your passport or substitute one of the following documents: A passport card. A Trusted Traveler card. An enhanced driver's license (sometimes called Real ID) with security features.

No, a U.S. Real ID alone does not get you into The Bahamas.

Here’s the crucial distinction:

• A Real ID is a U.S. domestic security standard for driver’s licenses and ID cards. Its primary purpose is to board domestic flights within the United States and enter certain federal facilities. It is not a travel document for international destinations.

• To enter The Bahamas, you need proof of citizenship and identity for international travel.

What You Actually Need to Enter The Bahamas:

For U.S. citizens, the requirements are:

1. A Valid Passport: This is the standard and recommended document. You must have a passport book that is valid for the duration of your stay.
2. OR a Passport Card: The U.S. passport card is valid for land and sea travel to The Bahamas (but not for international air travel). If you are flying, you must have the passport book.
3. OR Other WHTI-Compliant Documents: Under the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI), a Trusted Traveler Program card (NEXUS, SENTRI, or FAST) or an Enhanced Driver’s License (EDL) from a state that offers them are also acceptable for sea or land entry. An EDL is different from a standard Real ID.

The Bottom Line:

• If you are flying to The Bahamas, you must have a valid U.S. passport book.
• If you are traveling by sea (cruise), you can use a passport book, passport card, or other WHTI-compliant document