Do I need a passport to go to Juarez and back?

Question

I'm planning a trip to Mexico, to Ciudad Juarez, to buy some tequila.

Do I need a passport to go there and back for a day?

I'm driving to Juarez and walking across the border.

Answer 1

I honestly don't think you will need a passport to get back into the USA if you are going to walk across the border.   To get into Mexico all you need is legal US identification.  Your driver's license would work.

The part that gets sticky is trying to get back into the USA.

The rule of thumb right now:

Flying - yes, you need your passport to get back in the USA

Driving - no, not yet.... you need a valid US id plus a certified copy of your birth certificate.  You will need passports to get back in the USA while driving starting in 2008.

I imagine that the rules for walking back into the US are exactly the same as for driving.  

A lot of users will tell you that you don't need the certified birth certificate, that they've never been asked for it.  It just depends on whether you want to follow the law, or take your chances.  The US State department website says:

"Land or sea travelers must have a valid U.S. passport (or U.S. citizenship documents such as a certified copy (not a simple photocopy or facsimile) of a U.S. birth certificate, a Naturalization Certificate, a Consular Report of Birth Abroad, or a Certificate of Citizenship are acceptable along with photo identification, such as a state or military issued ID).  

U.S. legal permanent residents in possession of their I-551 Permanent Resident card may board flights to the U.S. from Mexico."

So there you have it... hope this answer helps!  If you decide to drive after all, make sure to get the Mexican insurance either online or at the border.  

Sounds like a fun little shopping trip!  There are worse reasons to travel ;)

Answer 2

yes you do need a passport- you know, tequila is sold in the US of A...

Answer 3

yes , you would need a passport even when you travel somewhere else and your plane stops in mexico just for a connection

Answer 4

If just going to Juarez you do not need a passport... get some Casa Noble for me while you are there.

Answer 5

If you put it that way,  I guess you don't.  = )