Hi, Corey!
Congratulations on your cruise next year aboard Disney Cruise Line! You pose a great question which is asked often. I'll give you the "official" word from DCL, and then, I'll give you my advice as a traveler and a mom.
DCL reminds guests that the guidelines on their site are based on US government regulations and are subject to change without notice. All guests claiming U.S. citizenship, including children, who board a cruise ship within the US, travel only within the Western Hemisphere, and return to the same US port on the same ship may present one of the following documents as proof of US citizenship for each member of their party:
- A valid, unexpired U.S. Passport
- A valid, unexpired U.S. Passport Card
- A valid, unexpired state-issued Enhanced Driver's License (where available)
- Trusted Traveler Program Card (NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST)
- Original or certified copy of their birth certificate (Guests 18 years of age and older are also required to present a photo ID issued by a Local, State, or Federal Government agency with the birth certificate.)
- A Consular Report of Birth Abroad or a Naturalization Certificate (Guests 18 years of age and older are also required to present a photo ID issued by a Local, State, or Federal Government agency.)
Since you have plenty of time, I suggest taking the plunge to apply for US passports for your traveling party. In addition to providing your family with valid identification, having a passport prepares you to travel wherever you desire. It also offers an extra level of security. For example, in the unlikely event that you experience a family emergency during your cruise and need to return home by air from a foreign port, you would already possess the appropriate ID needed to travel.
I hope that helps you plan. Have a wonderful day and a magical vacation. Bon voyage!
Andi