CDC Requirements and Restrictions for International and Domestic Travelers

After a year of dealing with COVID-19 and the resulting restrictions, many people are ready to travel, according to media reports. Although the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) advises against travel, the airline and other travel-related industries report a surge in the number of spring and summer bookings, and that number is expected to grow as more people are vaccinated against COVID-19.

Those considering travel may wonder what restrictions are in place for their destination. This varies widely depending upon where you plan to travel. As an overall rule, the CDC has implemented the following restrictions for travel:

• All domestic travelers are required to wear a mask in compliance with the CDC guidelines in all forms of public and shared modes of transportation including commercial aircraft, airports, intercity bus services, trains, public maritime vessels, and other forms of public and shared modes of transportation.
• International air travelers, including U.S. citizens, are required to provide proof of a negative COVID-19 test taken at least 3 days before entry into the United States. Domestic travelers are not required to provide a negative COVID-19 test at this time.
• All international air travelers, including U.S. citizens, should get tested for COVID-19 3 to 5 days after arrival into the United States and quarantine for 7 days following arrival.
• Many destinations have specific requirements or restrictions for travelers. Check state, territorial, and local stay-at-home orders and quarantine requirements by visiting the CDC Travel Planner.

Among several other recommendations for safety (read all the guidelines by clicking here), the CDC recommends travelers get fully vaccinated for COVID-19 if eligible.

As the health crisis changes, guidelines and restrictions on travel will change as well. Before any form of travel, check with the state and/or country for restrictions related to your destination as well as your home state and/or country.

The attorneys at O’Reilly Rancilio are available to answer your questions related to travel during the COVID-19 era. For more information please visit our website or call 586-726-1000.