How to Drive Across the U.S. Border into Canada

Canada has millions of acres of wild and untouched country.

Driving to Canada from the United States is still a relatively straight forward procedure. However, the rules have changed since 9/11. United States citizens are now required to have a valid passport or passport-enhanced driver's license to enter the Great White North. Expect long lines if crossing at popular or busy crossings such as between Blaine, Washington and White Rock, British Columbia, or across the Peace Bridge into Ontario. If traveling with pets, be sure to have valid certificates of health from a veterinarian on hand.

Things You'll Need

• Passport or enhanced passport-driver's license
• Proof of sufficient funds (not always enforced)
• Proof of insurance for your auto
• Papers of health for any pets

Instructions

1. Drive to the border crossing of your travel plans. Before arriving at the Canadian customs station, make sure every passenger in the car has a valid U.S. passport (or the passport of their home country along with their necessary visa requirements). Gather all of the passports together along with the auto insurance card. You may be asked for proof of sufficient funds for your stay in Canada, so be prepared with a current bank statement along with the credit and debit cards connected to the account.

2. Pull up to the customs kiosk and roll down your window. Wait for the agent to ask you questions. Typical questions include your nationality, purpose of trip, length of trip and if the car you are driving is yours. When asked, present the agent with the passports for each passenger in the auto.

3. Give the agent the proof of auto insurance if requested. If you are driving a car not registered to you and the owner is not in the car, be sure to have a letter from the owner giving permission for the trip, and make sure it is notarized. Present it to the agent if asked.

4. Wait for the agent to ask for any documents such as certificates of health for any pets you are traveling with. Exotic pets may be subject to quarantine. Dogs and cats are allowed in providing you have current proof of health from a veterinarian.

5. Take back all documents once cleared by the customs agent, thank them for the time and drive up and into Canada.

Tips & Warnings

• You are representatives of the United States. Remember that Canada is its own nation and has its own laws and rules. Respect them and the agents at customs. Be an "ambassador" of the U.S. and give the Canadians a good impression of the United States.

References

• Go Northwest: Canadian and US Border
• US Department of State: Canada