Can You Travel While on Probation in Massachusetts?

Whether you can travel while on probation in Massachusetts depends on the terms of your probation—and how far you’re going.

Most probation conditions require you to stay in Massachusetts unless you get permission. Even travel to nearby states like New Hampshire or Rhode Island could be a violation if your probation officer or the court didn’t approve it.

In some cases, especially with unsupervised probation or minor charges, judges may allow travel without prior approval. But if your case involves conditions like GPS monitoring, substance testing, or mandatory check-ins, travel is usually off-limits without a signed court order.

Violating travel restrictions—even unintentionally—can lead to a surrender hearing and possible jail time. I’ve had clients flagged just for flying out of state for a funeral or driving over the border without thinking.

If you’re planning a trip and you’re on probation, talk to a lawyer first. I’ve helped clients get court-approved travel—even for international trips—and avoid unnecessary violations.