What are the checkpoints along I-10 like?

Question

Has anyone recently been through the San Antonio to California part of I10? If so, about how many checkpoints are there, how long does it take to get through them, do they have dogs on site, and how big of a hassle are the cops? We don't want to add a ton of time to our trip or have to deal with several police encounters (it might be best for our car not to be searched). Also if anyone knows a good path to get there through northern NM & Arizona, please let me know.

Answer 1

I can't tell you about the checkpoints before, but one at the California border is nearly always operational, and there may be one at the Arizona/New Mexico border too. These are agricultural inspection stations and they are looking for fresh fruit and veggies, livestock, live plants, etc. If you are in a reputable looking car they rarely inspect, but they're more likely to inspect if you're in a van, rental truck, beat up car, etc. I have never seen dogs but who knows. Within California there are immigration inspection stations with a similar profile but not always open.

I don't think taking back routes will help you. They do their best to put checkpoints on all the roads, but the out-of-the-way ones are not always open. Also be aware that some of the Indian reservations ban alcohol possession and are known to have their own checkpoints.

Even though they are not looking for drugs (if that's the question), if they happen to find them, either they're deputized to make arrests or they will call the right cops. It's just a bad idea to carry drugs or other contraband in the car no matter what. The penalties are high. Why take the risk?

There are some beautiful but slow side routes through northern AZ and NM, but they take twice as long as I-10 or I-40.

Answer 2

I 10 Checkpoints

Answer 3

Ummmm...Sounds to me like you better PLAN on adding time to your trip by avoiding any major roadways. MapQuest your directions without using free-ways. Couldn't really help you with your question, though. I'm nowhere near there. All's I can tell you is to be careful, behave, wear your seatbelts, and NEVER think it can't happen to you.