Help! Do I need a passport?

Question

I am driving to Rocky Point, Mexico on May 8th. I've been told by a couple people that I need just a birth certificate if I'm driving instead of flying, but others say I need the passport no matter what. Which one do I need?

Answer 1

Here is a page specifically about traveling to Mexico: http://travel.state.gov/travel/tips/regional/regional_1174.html

Basically you don't need a passport, but it's a good idea. You have to prove your identity as well as your citizenship.

Answer 2

A passport is required if you come back from Mexico to the U.S. by plane (this requirement went into effect just recently - Jan 23, 2007).

A passport is not necessary at this point if you come back from Mexico on land (i.e., in a car or a bus). As always you have to be able to prove your identity and your citizenship, so you need at least your birth certificate and driver's license or something similar.

Very soon (possibly starting Jan 1, 2008, though they might postpone it) a passport will be required for anybody entering the U.S. border by land or air or sea.

Recomendations: If you have time to get a passport, it's safer. Consider if you have a medical emergency or for some other reason have to fly back to the U.S. However, if you aren't able to get a passport, you can make a trip by car this year and you won't have any problems.

See the link to the page at the state department to confirm details.

Answer 3

New law says that proper documentation currently is in the form of a passport. Birth certificates use to be appropriate however under new provisions and security passports are the new and sole accepted documentation. You need to get out all the documentation immediately, I cant' remember how long it takes to get your passport back but I remember it taking more than a week....I also remember you being able to pay more in advance for quicker competition. Hope this helps.

Answer 4

You do need a passport to go to mexico. If you are going to cross the border.to come back in the U.S.A

hope that helps.

Answer 5

I'm pretty sure that right now, and if you're NOT flying, you only need your birth certificate. However, to make sure I would contact the U.S. Department of State and double check, they have all of the guidelines about travel listed on their website, especially due to the fact that this is a crazy time for all travel with all of the different regulations being put in place. Hope it helps! www.state.gov

Answer 6

Now you need a passport. Birth certificate is no good now a days...

Answer 7

If you don't want problems with the mexican immigration services and pay penalties I recommend you travel with your passport specially if you are leaving the U.S..

Answer 8

Take ur passport and be on the safer side

Answer 9

You don't need passport. You will need it until January 2008.

Answer 10

i think the new law requires a passport. in any case, you should get one, because it's a good thing to have. they have an expedited process if you need it fast; check online.