Cross-Border Travel Identification Requirements

Since 9/11/2001 the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has been working to enhance the level of security when entering the United States. As part of this work, the DHS is implementing the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI) which will require ALL travelers to present a passport or other approved document that establishes the bearer’s identity and citizenship in order to enter the United States.

When crossing the Canadian/U.S. Border, who is affected by WHTI?

In the past, U.S. and Canadian citizens were exempt from presenting passports to enter the United States. As of June 1, 2009, both U.S. and Canadian citizens will be required to present WHTI-compliant documents for entry into the United States.

What are the current identification requirements at the Canadian/U.S. border?

As of January 31, 2008, U.S. and Canadian citizens ages 19 and older are asked to present a government-issued photo ID (such as a driver’s license) along with proof of citizenship (such as a birth certificate which can be a photocopy). Children 18 and younger currently need to present proof of citizenship. Passports, NEXUS cards and FAST cards are also accepted for cross-border travel in accordance with WHTI.

What are the identification requirements as of June 1, 2009?

WHTI will be fully implemented on June 1, 2009. At that time ALL cross-border travelers will be required to present a WHTI compliant document:

U.S. Citizens: A U.S. passport book, a U.S. passport card, (click here for a passport book/passport card comparison) a valid trusted traveler program card (NEXUS or FAST), an enhanced driver’s license (EDL), a Military ID with official travel orders, or a U.S. Merchant Mariner Document. New York residents click here www.nydmv.state.ny.us for information regarding EDLs. Residents of other states interested in an EDL should check with your state’s motor vehicle department.

Canadian Citizens: A Canadian passport, a valid trusted traveler program card (NEXUS or FAST), or an enhanced driver’s license (EDL).

U.S. and Canadian children under the age of 16 will be able to present a birth certificate (photocopies are acceptable) or other proof of citizenship.

Native Americans and Canadian Indians: Before traveling to or from the United States please click here www.cbp.gov for WHTI requirements. Many Native American tribes will need to enhance their tribal enrollment and identification cards in order to be WHTI compliant. The DHS is currently working with Canadian Indians with respect to the proposed new Indian and Northern Affairs Canada (IAC) card.