Do I need a passport when driving into Canada from the US?

Question

I know before you didnt need one. I live in Northern Minnesota closer to Canada and I used to drive there and needed only my picture ID. I work at an airline and they told us several months ago they were changing it where you needed a passport not only to fly in but also to drive. Did they ever change that? Only answer if you really know and if you have actually driven into Canada in the last month please... or if you know for sure. Thanks.

Answer 1

According to the Cnadian governement website, here is what you need to enter the US (the laws are reciprocal so you would need the same for Canada)

As of January 31, 2008, Canadian citizens entering the United States by land must present one of the following valid documents:

a government-issued photo ID, such as a driver’s licence, PLUS a birth certificate or citizenship card; or

a passport; or

a NEXUS card; or

a Free and Secure Trade (FAST) card; or

a British Columbia (B.C.) enhanced driver’s licence (EDL); or

a Certificate of Indian Status card; or

for those aged 18 years and under, only proof of citizenship, such as a birth certificate or citizenship card, is required.

Answer 2

Casey is correct.

If you need further confirmation:

http://travel.state.gov/travel/cbpmc/cbp...

Answer 3

No, you do NOT need a passport to enter Canada by car.

U.S. citizens arriving in Canada by land or water do not need a passport until summer 2009. A passport is only required for air travel between the U.S. and Canada.

Any of the following is sufficient to enter Canada and return to the U.S. by car:

- A passport (not required, but encouraged)

- Birth certificate (if you have no passport, this is required)

- Drivers license (required for photo ID)

- Green Card

If you have no passport you need to show your driver's license AND birth certificate. A driver's license is not proof of citizenship or legal status in the U.S. A passport covers your photo ID and proof of citizenship which is why its recommend to get a passport, it simply makes the process easier.

From the U.S. Department of State:

"Canadian law requires that all persons entering Canada must carry both proof of citizenship and identity.  A valid U.S. passport or NEXUS card satisfies these requirements for U.S. citizens.  If U.S. citizen travelers to Canada do not have a passport or approved alternate document such as a NEXUS card, they must show a government-issued photo ID (e.g. Driver’s License) and proof of U.S. citizenship such as a U.S. birth certificate, naturalization certificate, or expired U.S. passport.  Children under sixteen need only present proof of U.S. citizenship."

http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw...

Answer 4

You will not a passport to drive into Canada until at least August of 2009.  You will, however, need a photo ID and proof of citizenship (ie your birth certificate).