Family enjoying activities on board; popcorn
  • On Dec 8, 2025
    Terri from FL Asked Please note that experiences, policies, pricing and other offerings are subject to change and may have changed since the date of this answer.

    Does my 6 year old need a passport?

    Ahoy, Terri!

    Welcome aboard planDisney! I love that you’re thinking ahead now—nothing spoils a countdown to vacation faster than paperwork surprises, and this is one of those questions that’s absolutely worth asking early.

    I put on my best Detective Mickey hat and, if my sleuthing is spot on, it looks like you and your crew are setting sail on a 3-night Disney Fantasy cruise that departs from Port Canaveral and returns right back to Port Canaveral. For most closed-loop sailings like this (same U.S. port in and out), U.S. citizens are not required to have a passport. That means your 6-year-old does not need one for this itinerary.

    Here’s how the documentation breaks down for U.S. citizens: each Guest must sail with either a valid U.S. passport or an original, state-issued birth certificate (no photocopies). Adults also need a physical, government-issued photo ID—digital IDs won’t work here. For children age 15 and under, including your 6-year-old, no photo ID is required, just that original birth certificate. Think of it as the “junior adventurer” version of travel documents.

    While a passport isn’t required for this sailing, I do always recommend considering one if it’s an option for your family. It’s very rare, but if an unexpected situation requires you to fly home from another country, having a passport can make that process much smoother—kind of like having a Lightning Lane when you didn’t know you’d need it.

    I hope this helps you feel confident that your crew is ready to set sail without any last-minute curveballs. Having the right documents in hand lets you focus on the important stuff, like character hugs, deck parties, and squeezing in one more Mickey ice cream bar. Before you know it, you’ll be hearing that iconic horn and officially beginning your high-seas adventure.

    Sea ya real soon with holiday cheer, calm seas, and magical winter memories,
    Dustin
thumbnail image for Dustin

Meet the Panelist: Dustin, Ohio

Ahoy! I’m Dustin, a husband, father of two, and active-duty service member living in Ohio. My crew and I just keep swimming toward our next Disney Cruise Line adventure! From a whole new world of ports to hakuna matata vibes on deck, we live for the magic at sea. Ready to see what’s beyond the reef? Allow me to be your guide as we sail toward your perfect Disney cruise adventure!
Learn More About Dustin

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