The CDC recommends that anyone who is has not completed a vaccination series or up to date wait until they have done so before making travel plans.
For those who are up to date and intend to go out of town, here are some simple steps to follow before departing:
- Assess your risk by visiting the CDC COVID-19 Travel recommendations by destinations page.
- Make a digital copy of your vaccination card (such as taking a photo of your card) or download your digital vaccination record.
- Protect your vaccination card by guarding it in a plastic sleeve (lamination is not recommended because it prevents the recording of future shot(s)/booster, if needed).
- Follow all mask mandates & social distancing requirements of your destination.
- Know who to contact if you develop symptoms of COVID-19 while traveling.
- Wear a mask while using public transit (planes, buses, trains, etc.).
- Self-monitor for COVID-19 symptoms upon returning.
- Get tested for COVID-19 3-5 days after arrival.
For those looking to travel outside of the country, it is imperative that you:
- Contact the Office of Foreign Affairs beforehand.
- Review country-specific travel vaccination requirements and COVID-19 restrictions.
- Review airline-specific travel restrictions.
Note: It is advised to verify that the information on your digital vaccination record matches your physical vaccination card. The process for correcting any errors takes an average of 2 - 3 weeks, therefore, we recommend checking that your information is correct in advance.
For more information regarding both domestic and international travel, please visit our travel page and the CDC travel page.
Watch the CDC video below to learn about International Travel Recommendations & Requirements:
Visit the CDC travel webpage (https://www.cdc.gov/travelrequirements) to find up to date information about what is required for international travel for:
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U.S. Citizens, U.S. Nationals, U.S. Lawful Permanent Residents, and Immigrants
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Non-U.S. Citizen, Non-U.S. Immigrants
California currently has no travel requirements or restrictions, but strongly recommends compliance with CDC travel guidelines (above) for testing, masking, and quarantine. Additionally, travelers should:
- Delay travel until you're up to date on your COVID-19 vaccinations: Complete a primary vaccination series or get boosted if eligible.
- If you're not vaccinated and boosted, but choose to travel, get tested before and after.
- No matter your vaccination status, it's strongly encouraged that you wear a mask while on public transportation or in a transportation hub.
- Whether you're vaccinated or not, get tested 3-5 days after returning to California.
Visit our testing page to find information on where to get tested.
Visit our travel page to learn about more international travel guidelines and how to stay safe while traveling.