Do You Need a COVID-19 Test Certificate for Air Travel? Latest Guidelines for 2025

It’s almost 2 or 3 years past the pandemic and things are returning to normal, but the new now keeps changing according to the spread of COVID 19.
People keep asking should they take a shot of the COVID 19 Vaccine before they travel by air to another country and sometimes the discussions sparks if they need to be vaccinated to travel within the United States.
Do you need a COVID-19 test certificate or a COVID shot to fly in 2025?
Guidelines evolve with the changing landscape of public health, it’s crucial for travelers—both domestic and international—to understand the current requirements.
In this blog we are going to see the latest insights on whether US citizens, particularly those from California, and international travelers need to present proof of vaccination or a recent test certificate for air travel.

Domestic Travel Guidelines for US Citizens

Currently, US citizens are not mandated to show a COVID-19 test certificate or proof of vaccination (COVID shot) for domestic flights.
For people flying within the United States, including residents of California, the air travel requirements have significantly relaxed in 2025.
These requirements are eased as a direct impact of the widespread in vaccination and improved treatment protocols over the last few years.
Many airlines still recommend and encourage travelers to be vaccinated, even though it’s not a federal mandate, just to be safe than to go through the struggle again.
As of now, most domestic travelers can board flights without needing to produce a COVID-19 test certificate. It remains a personal choice guided by individual risk tolerance and comfort levels.
If you’re planning to travel from California or any other US state, it’s a good idea to verify the specific requirements with your airline before departure. Keep in mind that state and local guidelines may also influence travel protocols, but the overall trend for 2025 is toward minimal restrictions for domestic flights.

Guidelines slightly differ for travelers from other countries into the United States. While many countries have moved away from strict COVID-19 entry requirements, some still require travelers to show proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test certificate.
As of 2025, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has relaxed many of its earlier mandates for international arrivals. However, requirements can vary based on the traveler’s country of origin, healthcare situation in the country and the airline’s policies.
Although the United States no longer enforces a universal mandate for COVID-19 test certificates for incoming passengers, some airlines or destination countries may still request them as a precautionary measure.
It is also possible that transit points or connecting flights might have additional requirements, so being prepared with the necessary documentation can help avoid any last-minute issues.
For domestic flights, US citizens—especially those from California—are not required to present a COVID-19 test certificate or proof of vaccination, although many airlines encourage vaccination for added safety. International travelers, on the other hand, should check specific entry requirements and be prepared with the necessary documentation, as rules may vary by country and airline.
If you are in Torrance California and looking to get vaccinated for COVID 19 you can contact Life Saver Urgent Care – Book your appointment.