Domestic Travel (Inside the U.S.)
- No documents required for Service Dogs, PSDs, or ESAs.
- If you are flying, follow the airline’s requirements only.
International Entry Into District of Columbia
Required Documentation & Gear (must bring)
- ISO-Compliant Microchip (must match all documents)
- Rabies Vaccination Certificate
- Puppy must be 12+ weeks old at the time of vaccination
- High-risk countries: Rabies Titer required
- Low-risk countries (Canada, Western Europe, etc.): Titer not required
- Veterinary Health Certificate (vet letter confirming no known diseases)
Preferred Documentation (greatly facilitates acceptance and pre-clearance)
- Physical ID Card (animal + handler)
- Recognition Gear (Service Animal vest, bandana, or harness)
- Prescription Letter (ESA, PSA, or Service Animal letter from a licensed professional)
Important Notes
- A physical ID Card, Registration Certificate, and visible Recognition Gear speed up the processing.
- No airport restrictions: Entry is allowed through any U.S. airport serving Washington, D.C., as long as the airline accepts the animal and documents are complete.
- Assistance Animals follow the same import rules as pets.
Deworming / Tapeworm Treatment Rules
Washington, D.C. does not require tapeworm treatment for dog entry.
Routine deworming is recommended due to urban wildlife (foxes, raccoons) and surrounding forests, but it is not mandatory.
Restricted Breeds at Entry
The District of Columbia has no citywide breed restrictions.
Some private housing providers may enforce policies, but there are no government-mandated breed bans.
Public Transport & Transit Rules
Service Dogs are fully permitted on WMATA Metro, DC Circulator, Metrobus, and regional buses.
ESAs and pets may be restricted unless in carriers or depending on transit-agency rules.