What is the process of driving across the border going from Seattle into Canada?

Question

I will be driving up to Vancouver B.C. next friday. I wanted to know how long is the wait at the border and what do the officers ask you when you approach them.

What about coming back into the States?

Answer 1

We just did that and it took about 4 minutes, both going into the states and going home.

Have fun in vancouver - check out the eatery... yum!

Answer 2

You will need a passport to cross the border.

Answer 3

You don't need a passport yet if you are driving but need photo ID and proof of citizenship. Wait times vary considerably, it just depends on the day and time, maybe how many customs officers have knocked off for lunch, and isn't very predictable. The Peace Arch crossing is often the busiest, you might want to try one of the ones farther east such as the 176 St one. They can ask what you're going to Canada for, what your citizenship is, how long you plan to be there. They can ask all kinds of other stuff too, but that's usually it. Coming back, they'll want to know if you have anything to declare, maybe how long you were gone. They could ask you to step out of the car if they want to search it, it isn't usual but can happen, it could be set off by something about you or it could be totally random.

Answer 4

I'd recommend that you try to get to the border as early in the day as possible.  The drive up I-5 itself is okay, but depending how busy the border is you can wait for an hour or more.  Last time I went through it took an hour and a half.  The border agent will ask you for photo ID and proof of citizenship.  He'll ask how long you'll be in Canada and the purpose of your visit.  Unless for some reason he is suspicious of you'll he'll just wish you a nice day and send you on your way.  The process will be much the same going back to the States.  You'll be asked for photo ID and proof of citizenship.  They'll want to know how long you were out of the country and whether you have any goods to declare.  You might be required to pay duty depending on how much/what you purchased.  

The one glitch right now entering the States is construction.  They're expanding the US Customs at the Peace Arch Crossing and right now it's down to four booths so there could be a hold up there as well.

Starting in June 2009, you'll need a valid passport to get back into the States.