Recent changes in passport rules have many U.S. Citizens confused about whether they need a passport to go to the Bahamas. On June 1st, 2009, the final phase of the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI) went into effect which means: If you are traveling by plane, you must have a U.S. Passport. If you are traveling by sea, you can use a passport book or one of the following documents: passport card. trusted traveler card such as NEXUS, SENTRI or FAST card. enhanced driver’s license (only some states have these).