Do you need a passport to go to Canada by car 2023?

Entry into Canada: Canadian law requires that all persons entering Canada carry proof of citizenship and identity. A valid U.S. passport, passport card, or NEXUS card satisfies these requirements for U.S. citizens. Children under 16 only need proof of U.S. citizenship.



[Correction: The current year is 2026]. To enter Canada by car in 2026, you must present valid proof of both citizenship and identity. For most U.S. citizens, a valid U.S. Passport is the standard and most universally accepted document. However, for those driving across the border, there are several "Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative" (WHTI) compliant alternatives. You can use a U.S. Passport Card, an Enhanced Driver's License (EDL) (issued by states like New York, Michigan, or Washington), or a NEXUS card. If you are a permanent resident of the U.S., you will need your Green Card and a passport from your country of origin. It is important to note that while some older advice suggests a birth certificate and photo ID might work, border agents in 2026 are much stricter; having a WHTI-compliant card or passport is essential to avoid lengthy delays or being denied entry at the crossing.

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Ensure that you have proper identification for you and your family readily available. Acceptable forms of identification for entry into Canada include a passport, a NEXUS card and an enhanced driver's licence.

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For U.S. citizens, a passport or visa is not required. Instead, a birth certificate and one photo identification card may be used; however, a photo identification card by itself is not enough. For permanent residents of the United States, “Green Cards” may be used in lieu of their passports.

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Submit your customs and immigration declaration online using Advance Declaration up to 72 hours before you arrive in Canada. If you choose not to submit your declaration in advance, you can complete it at an airport kiosk or eGate.

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The largest waterfall, known as “Horseshoe Falls” or “Canada Falls”, is mainly located on the Canadian border. Considering that two of the three waterfalls are located in US territory, it's safe to say that you can get a great look at most of Niagara Falls without needing a passport.

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Do I Need a Passport to Go to Canada If I Have an Enhanced ID? If you plan to fly into Canada, you will need a passport. If you plan to cross into Canada via a land border, however, a qualifying enhanced license can work as long as you do not have a DUI arrest in your past.

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All are required to have a valid passport that does not expire within six months of your trip.

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If you are an American citizen and wish to cross over to the Canadian bank of the Niagara River, you are required to show your passport at the border crossing.

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Do American Citizens need a passport to enter Niagara Falls, Canada? Yes. A Passport (or a Passport Card or Enhanced Driver's License if coming by land) is required for crossing the border into Canada unless you are age 15 or younger. Please visit the government website for any further details.

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