What do I need to cross the border into the US from Canada?

Question

Hey, I'm 17 and I'll be driving up with my girlfriend (18, I guess she would be considered an "adult" because of her age so I don't know if this has any significance, if not just ignore it lol) on July 23rd and staying over night to go to Warped Tour at Darien Lake on the 24th. I was told by some people that I need some kind of note, and others say that I don't need the note so I was just wondering what I should bring as Identification and stuff since I don't have a driver's license yet.

Thanks,

Brendan.

Answer 1

A passport?

Answer 2

Government-issued ID and proof of citizenship (birth certificate); or a passport.

Answer 3

Brendan,

Original birth certificate and if you did happen to have a picture id(government issued it is a good idea to take it but not necessary in your case as you are under 18) the birth certificate is all they require at the moment for a minor.

you will need a notarized letter from your parents stating you have their authorization to cross the border with your girlfriend. that is because you are under the age of minority (18) the letter should state, where you are going, who you are going with, for how long, where you will be staying and when you will be returning, It must have all your parents contact info, work/home/cell numbers as well as address. As well if you do not live with both parents they will need to each sign a letter for you to take, if one parent has sole custody of you then it will only need to be that parent as well as a copy of any custody/court papers. Same thing if there is a parent no longer with us, you will need a copy of the death certificate.

Canada has very strict guidelines when it comes to minors traveling with out their parents or legal guardian because of child abduction and such, and yes I realize you are going with your girlfriend but that just is the way it is!