Entry into the Dominican Republic is easy!  Most nationalities will not require a visa from the Embassy prior to departure, but check with your local embassy if you are from an obscure nation (Americans and Europeans are fine but New Zealanders need visas). 

 Most nationalities do require however a "Visitor's Visa" which you will buy at the airport in the Dominican Republic after your plane lands and before you get your passport stamped.   The cost is 10 USD per person, and you should bring this exact amount with you, to make it fast and easy.

While the below is currently true for American visitors, the policy is changing at the end of 2006, so get your passports ready!  Starting in January 2007 Americans will need passports to leave the country, even to Mexico and Canada, and for sure to the Dominican Republic. 

"For the time being, you should be fine with birth certificate and driver's license or other government issue picture ID.  However, not having a passport may keep you if you are traveling during a terror alert, so it may be wise to bring it.

Passing through passport control and customs is a breeze, before you know it you will be in the taxi wisking away to enjoy your holiday!

Safe travels and Aloha!