What do I need to cross the U.S.A border from Canada?

Question

I'm 16 and my friend's mom is taking me to the states to go shopping. Does anyone know what I need to have in order to cross the border? I heard that I needed a go card, permission letter,birth certificate, and a letter with my address. What if my go card's name is different then my birth name. For example, my birth name is Ann, but on my go card it says Anne.

Answer 1

When you enter Canada, a border services officer may ask to see your passport and a valid visa, when necessary. If you are a citizen of the United States, you do not need a passport to enter Canada; however, you should carry proof of your citizenship such as a birth certificate, certificate of citizenship or naturalization or a Certificate of Indian Status, as well as a photo ID. If you are a permanent resident of the United States, you must bring your permanent resident card (i.e. green card) with you. For more information on admissibility into Canada, read the fact sheet called Managing Access to Canada. It is available on our Web site at www.cbsa.gc.ca.

Answer 2

They do not interrogate everyone.  I am asked a few questions and they say O.K. go ahead.

Can you imagine if they hauled everyone in.

The line up would be back in Toronto and there would be a two day wait.

In a worst case scenario they will deny you entry.

Follow the advice of tonlac and carry all the documents just in case.

If the vehicle has been Across in the past then there will be a record of it and will not send up any flags

Answer 3

To actually answer your question about coming FROM Canada TO the US:

If you are flying, you'll need a passport.

If you are driving, Canadian citizens, when crossing the border by land or sea,  are expected to provide either:

A valid passport, or

Government issued photo ID (e.g. a driver's license) and proof of citizenship (typically a Canadian birth certificate or citizenship card).

As a minor, you'll also need a notarized permission letter from both parents.

Answer 4

You need a passport/photo ID and your drivers license