Flying with a Pet to Hawaii: Requirements & Quarantine Rules (2026)
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Plan Your Trip FreeVeterinary
Microchip implantation
270+ days before travelAn ISO-compliant microchip is required. This must be implanted before any rabies vaccinations used toward Hawaii's requirements. Register the chip with an approved registry.
OIE-FAVN rabies titer test
120+ days before travelBlood must be drawn at least 90 days before arrival in Hawaii. The OIE-FAVN test must show a result of 0.5 IU/ml or higher. The blood draw must occur at least 30 days after the most recent rabies vaccination. Use only USDA-approved laboratories for the test.
Vaccinations
Two rabies vaccinations
200+ days before travelTwo rabies vaccinations are required. The primary vaccination is given first, then a booster. The most recent rabies vaccination must be given between 90 days and 12 months before arrival in Hawaii. Both vaccinations must be documented.
Documentation
Apply to Hawaii's 5-Day-Or-Less program
30+ days before travelSubmit your pet's documentation to the Hawaii Department of Agriculture for pre-approval into the 5-Day-Or-Less program. Required documents include: microchip record, vaccination records, and approved lab titer test results. Apply well in advance.
Travel
Fly direct to Honolulu
Pets must arrive directly at Honolulu International Airport. Pets traveling on connecting flights or arriving at other Hawaiian airports will not be accepted into the 5-Day-Or-Less program and may face the full 120-day quarantine.
Customs & Entry
5-day inspection quarantine
Even with all documents in order, pets completing the 5-Day-Or-Less program are held at the Animal Quarantine Station for 5 days of inspection before release. If any requirement is not met, the full 120-day quarantine applies at your expense.
Important Notes
Hawaii is a rabies-free state and has strict quarantine laws. The 5-Day-Or-Less program is the best option for most travelers — but it requires starting preparations at least 4–6 months before travel. If any requirement is not met, pets face the full 120-day quarantine at significant expense. Southwest Airlines does NOT fly between the mainland and Hawaii. Verify all requirements with the Hawaii Department of Agriculture before traveling.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does my pet need a microchip to travel to Hawaii?
Yes. An ISO 11784/11785 compliant 15-digit microchip is required. The microchip must be implanted before the rabies vaccination is administered — if done in the wrong order, the vaccination may not count.
What vaccinations does my pet need to enter Hawaii?
A current rabies vaccination is required. In addition, a rabies antibody titer test (blood test) is required to confirm the vaccine was effective.
Is quarantine required when bringing a pet to Hawaii?
Yes. Pets entering Hawaii are subject to 5 days of mandatory post-arrival quarantine at a government-approved facility, even if all pre-arrival requirements are met.
How far in advance do I need to start preparing to travel to Hawaii with my pet?
At least 9 months before departure. Japan and similarly strict destinations require a rabies antibody titer test followed by a mandatory waiting period before travel.
What is the USDA health certificate and do I need one for Hawaii?
A USDA health certificate (Form 7001) is an official document signed by a USDA-accredited veterinarian confirming your pet's health and vaccination status. It must be issued within 10 days of departure and endorsed by your regional USDA APHIS office. Most international destinations require it.
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Get Your Free ChecklistRequirements last verified: 2026-03-25. Always confirm current rules with your vet and the destination country's animal health authority before travel.