Do I need a passport or photo ID, to cross the U.S border from Canada?

Question

Do I need a passport or photo ID, to cross the U.S border from Canada?

Answer 1

currently for land and sea travel you need proof of citizenship (a birth certificate will do) and government issued photo ID (driver's lisence is fine).  This goes for crossing in either direction (people who think you need a passport one way and not the other are kind of slow, that would be the worst law ever).  ANYWAYS, you do need a passport if you are flying, and only if you are flying.

As of June 2009 you will need a passport for driving across the border but not right now. (and june 2009 will probably be pushed back to. Since it was originally going to go through June 2007 then Jan 2008 then June 2008, now it's set at June 2009. so we'll see how long til it's actually needed)

For someone who crosses the border a lot there is something called a NEXUS card.  no waiting in line, no questions asked, no passport, ID, birth certificate nothing. Just this card, but to get it you ened to apply, and go through intereviews with both countries and get approved.  It's a bit of a hassle.

Answer 2

The requirements vary depending on the method of travel you use.  Although in theory Canada is not as strict as the US since you will have to return you will find the same requirements required to cross into Canada as to cross into the US.  These were set down by the US Department of Homeland Security.

By Air:  A Valid Passport

By Land:  A valid passport

                     OR

                Valid government issued photo ID such as a Driver's License and an official birth certificate.  Photo copies, unless certified by an authorized issuing agency, are not acceptable.  If you are 18 or younger then only the birth certificate is required although if you have photo ID bring it.  If you are a US immigrant or were born in another country but are now a US citizen bring your citizenship/green card.

By Sea:  Same as for Land

Effective as of June 1, 2009 a passport, passport card, enhanced Driver's License, or NEXUS (or similar type) card will be required for all forms of travel.  I would recommend getting a passport as soon as possible as it will provide all of the identification you will require for travel to all parts of the world.

Answer 3

Actually, as of January 2008 you have to have a Passport. A birth certificate and photo ID is no longer allowed.  

Answer 4

Marie is correct.  Passports will not be required for land travel between the U.S. and Canada until june1, 2009.

Answer 5

govt issued photo id and birth certificate to cross by land until next summer i believe.

Answer 6

apparently not