do i need a passport?

Question

if i drive to canada from the u.s. do i need a passport now

Answer 1

No, you do not. According to the US State Department, it won't be required until 2008 for ground travel, provided you are a US citizen. But, it doesn't hurt to have one and may make your border crossing that much smoother.

"Under the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI)

The proposed implementation timeline has two phases:

Beginning January 23, 2007, ALL persons, including U.S. citizens, traveling by air between the United States and Canada, Mexico, Central and South America, the Caribbean, and Bermuda will be required to present a valid passport, Air NEXUS card, or U.S. Coast Guard Merchant Mariner Document, or an Alien Registration Card, Form I-551, if applicable.

As early as January 1, 2008, ALL persons, including U.S. citizens, traveling between the U.S. and Canada, Mexico, Central and South America, the Caribbean, and Bermuda by land or sea (including ferries), may be required to present a valid passport or other documents as determined by the Department of Homeland Security. While recent legislative changes permit a later deadline, the Departments of State and Homeland Security are working to meet all requirements as soon as possible. Ample advance notice will be provided to enable the public to obtain passports or passport cards for land/sea entries. "

http://travel.state.gov/travel/cbpmc/cbpmc_2223.html

Edit: Amazing. I can post a link to the offical site and post the official statement and law, and I still get negged and people saying the exact opposite. Do people even read anymore before speaking (or typing)? Sigh.

Answer 2

Someone may know the exact date if it was not already this month; but you will need a passport for any (read any) travel outside the US to be able to get back in. Distant freinds of ours spent several days and almost a thousand dollars getting one from Mexico with consolate help to be able to get their family back. Get one as it's about the best ID youc an have anyway. Becasue the change is happening now the post offcies and passport agencies are swamped with lines- go early!

Answer 3

If your driving to Canada or if your trying to get back to theU.S? If your trying to get back in the U.S all u need is a foto I.D,next year in 2008 u'll need a valid passporte,if your flying or on boat u need to have it already,but for car entry till next year! Trust me!

Answer 4

Yes, you do.
I'm going to Thunder Bay in the fall and getting my passport at this very minute.
Start your process as early as possible.

.

Answer 5

right now no...only if you are going by plane. by as soon as january 2008, yes.

Answer 6

yes

Answer 7

yes!!! they may not let you back in..................get one while you can!!