Going to Canada by car. What do I need?

[Red_Barchetta]

I’ve crossed the border by car plenty of times before, but I was wondering if anything has changed? I heard they’ll be requiring passports when crossing back into the states; has that been enacted yet?

[Rhythmdvl]

What, since they passed the motor law? Just be careful as you cross the borderline – keep an eye out for the one lane bridge.

[spinky]

Odd; I would have expected you to fly in via Pearson International Airport in Toronto (YYZ).

(sorry. just trying to help get the smartass comments out of the way so you can get your question answered)

[Northern_Piper]

From the U.S. State Department website:

LAND AND SEA TRAVEL
The following summarizes information available on the Department of Homeland Security’s website.

JANUARY 31, 2008
U.S. and Canadian citizens will need to present either a WHTI-compliant document, or a government-issued photo ID, such as a driver’s license, plus proof of citizenship, such as a birth certificate. DHS also proposes to begin alternative procedures for U.S. and Canadian children at that time.

SUMMER 2008
At a later date, to be determined, the departments will implement the full requirements of the land and sea phase of WHTI. The proposed rules require most U.S. citizens entering the United States at sea or land ports of entry to have either a U.S. passport; a U.S. passport card; a trusted traveler card such as NEXUS, FAST, or SENTRI; a valid Merchant Mariner Document (MMD) when traveling in conjunction with official maritime business; or a valid U.S. Military identification card when traveling on official orders.

The implementation date will be determined based on a number of factors, including the progress of actions undertaken by the Department of Homeland Security to implement the WHTI requirements and the availability of WHTI compliant documents on both sides of the border. DHS and DOS expect the date of full WHTI implementation to be in the summer of 2008. The precise implementation date will be formally announced with at least 60 days notice.

Note: The passport requirement does NOT apply to U.S. citizens traveling to or returning directly from a U.S. territory.

If you go to this web-site, it has a link the Homeland Security page with more information.

[vetbridge]

If you are taking a pet, be sure to have proof of rabies vaccination and a health certificate from your veterinarian.