Canadian Borders?

Question

I'm an American citizen without a passport planning to leave for Canada in a couple of weeks.

I am told that going to and from Canada, you only need a passport or

driver ID and an official birth certificate [and parental, notarized consent form].

Has anyone been through the borders in this way?

If so, what problems were faced? How long did it take for the border patrol to approve this?

My dad is freaking out because he's like, it takes 2 weeks for the US gov to get a passport, why would it take 2 minutes for them to approve our passing back into American territory?

Is it really that simple?

Please answer ASAP!

Answer 1

It used to be more simple. Now, I believe, you need a passport to come back to the U.S. regardless which country you travel to. I think there is some kind of exception for drivers until 2009 though. You might check the site below:

Answer 2

To cross the border by LAND you need  a photo I.D. and proof of citizenship...EITHER a passport OR a birth certificate.  If a minor is traveling with a parent he ony needs his birth certificate and a letter of permission from the other parent.  There should be no problem at the border...there is nothing to freak out about.

Answer 3

You are correct.  You do need a government issued, photo identification (state ID card or drivers license.  A state college student ID card won't work.) You will also need a current issue birth certificate.  Older certificates do not contain the necessary security features.  

I suggest that you apply for the passport,then take your driver's license or ID card and birth certificate with you to Canda.

Answer 4

If you cross at a land border, no passport required until 2009 (and even then, they might accept an enhanced photo ID if they can get it together enough to agree on one).