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Updated 11/20/20: As of 11/24/20, all travelers must already have a negative COVID-19 test result BEFORE departure, otherwise they'll be subject to the state's 14-day mandatory quarantine on arrival, even if a negative test result is later received. Also note that visitors subject to quarantine aren't permitted to stay in short-term rentals on Maui, Kauai, or the Big Island.
We're Getting Many Hawaii COVID-19 Testing Questions from TravelSort Clients and readers. Hawaii has reopened to visitors with a negative COVID-19 test, which enables them to skip the otherwise mandatory 14-day quarantine. Here are the most frequently asked questions, with answers.
When Do I Take the COVID-19 Test? Is it 72 Hours Before My First Flight or the Actual Flight to Hawaii?
You need to take the COVID-19 test within the 72 hours prior to the last leg of your flights to Hawaii. For example, if you're flying from NYC to LAX to OGG, you'd take the test within the 72 hours before the departure time of your LAX-OGG flight.
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What if I Take the Vault Health Test 30 Minutes Before the 72 Hour Window Prior to My Flight to Hawaii?
The State of Hawaii's rules are strict: it needs to be within the 72 hours prior to the departure time for your flight to Hawaii. That said, because Vault Health generally only provides the day of your test, not the time, you should be fine. For any COVID-19 test with a time stamp of your testing time, however, make sure it's within the 72 hours prior to your departure time for your flight to Hawaii, and not before.
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Do Kids Have to Have a COVID-19 Test?
Yes, if they are age 5 or older. Only kids 4 and under are exempt from testing.
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What If I Fly to HNL Then Have a Flight to OGG?
Your COVID-19 test would need to be taken within the 72 hours prior to your HNL-OGG flight, according to Maui County: “Transpacific and inter-county travelers seeking exemption from Hawaii’s 14-day mandatory travel quarantine must take a State-approved test within 72 hours prior to their final leg of travel to Maui County.” We'd strongly recommend flying nonstop to OGG instead, if at all possible.
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What If I Haven't Received My COVID-19 Test Result Before I Depart?
Updated 11/20/20: While you'll be able to board your flight, you'll have to enter the state's mandatory 14-day quarantine upon arrival, and unlike previously, it won't be possible to exit quarantine by uploading a negative test result. Also see Traveling to Hawaii? Positive COVID-19 Test Could Derail Trip.
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