Do you need a passport if you're driving to the States from Canada?

Question

I'm planning to go on a road trip with some friends from Canada to the States next week and I'm hearing mixed things. Some are saying you do, some are saying you don't need a valid passport to cross the border. Does anyone know for sure.

If so, please provide a valid website to backup your answer.

Thanks!

Preferrably from a US Website

Answer 1

f you are traveling to Canada by land or by sea you do not require a passport but you must have U.S. citizenship documents such as a certified copy (not a photocopy or facsimile) of a U.S. birth certificate, this must be accompanied by a government issued photo-ID such as a drivers license or military ID etc to gain re-entry back into the States.

However from next year all persons traveling to Mexico, Canada, Bermuda and the Caribbean region will require a passport regardless of how they enter the country.

Answer 2

I am going out of the country from the US to Mexico this January. I am required to have a passport.

From my understanding, you also need one to come BACK into the US from Canada. Its not the leaving you need it for its the return.

If you are going soon you better go get it NOW. there is a long wait for them at times due to the new laws. Now that it is holiday time as well as the end of the year, I wouldn't wait. It can take up to 6 weeks regular time to get them, sooner or later too. And expediting one takes about 2. That's I think another $60. and if you express the mail both ways as well that's another $16 each way. This is on top of the Passport fee. Totaling just under $200. I'd go now! Its doubtful you can do it so soon, however I have heard they are allowing some transport with proof you have applied. I'd check at a post office or courthouse doing passports.

You will first need to go get a photo. Ask specifically for a passport photo. They are very particular on accepting them. They run around $10. Walmart usually does them....... Take that to a Post office or courthouse which ever in your area that offers passports. You will need your birth certificate. The original with the "stamped" seal. Not a sticker or one with footprints. If you don't have one you will have to drive to place of birth and get one (they do it on the spot, takes 5 min) or mail in for it.

http://www.passportexpress.com/default.aspx?page=over16

Calling your local court house would be best. Then you can ask questions and get advice.

PS If you need to do a birth certificate online. it should be around $20. Not $40-$60. Go directly to your vidal records rather than a BC site.

Answer 3

You don't need a passport. But you do need some proof of ID

Answer 4

All entries into the US now require a passport.. even US citizens returning.