Planning to cross the U.S. - Canadian border? Know before you go

If your spring or summer travel plans include crossing the border into Canada or the U.S.and back again there are things you need to know. This article covers the highlights, the absolute essentials, but you are strongly advised to check with the proper authorities on both sides of the border for additional information. There are helpful links at the bottom of this page.

Since June 2009, everyone from every country arriving in Canada or the U.S. by air, land and sea has needed a passport or an acceptable equivalent document: a passport card, or a NEXUS card, which is pre-approval to cross the border. There are also enhanced driver’s licenses and FAST/Express cards which are used primarily by commercial truck drivers and others who cross the border frequently. Children up to age fifteen may cross the border without a passport or equivalent provided that they have parental approval and certified copies of their birth certificates. Divorced parents who share custody of their children should carry copies of the legal custody documents.

If you are traveling with pets you’ll need a certificate signed and dated by your veterinarian showing that each pet has been vaccinated against rabies during the past three years. If your pet is a puppy or kitten less than three months old this certification is not necessary.

There are also restrictions on carrying certain items such as liquor and tobacco across the border. For more information, check with U.S. and Canadian customs websites

Be sure you have your car registration handy as you approach a border checkpoint. Agents on both sides of the border are vigilant in trying to spot stolen vehicles.

And, before you approach a border crossing, be ready. Have all your documents handy, turn off any music, cell phones or other distractions, remove your sunglasses and roll down your window. Most of all, be patient and pleasant. Border agents are there for the security of their national citizens and visitors, including you and your family.

A final note: plan ahead. Passports can take weeks to process and though there are agencies that will rush your request the additional expense involved can be significant.

For more information about crossing the U.S.-Canadian border in both directions, check the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative website: http://www.getyouhome.gov/html/eng_map.html

For U.S. Customs and Border Protection information: http://www.cbp.gov/xp/cgov/travel/vacation/kbyg/

For Americans entering Canada: http://www.consular.canada.usembassy.gov/enter_canada.asp