What documents do I need to cross the Canadian border by car?

Taking a road trip from the U.S. to Canada, or simply arriving by car, requires crossing the border at one of the 24 official locations. Americans will need to present a valid U.S. passport or other acceptable form of identification upon arrival to the country.



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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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You must pay taxes and/or duties when applicable to bring your vehicle through Canadian customs. Your vehicle must be clear of any recalls. It must then pass an inspection by the Registrar of Imported Vehicles (RIV) in Canada before it can be officially considered imported.

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If you're crossing the Canadian border by car, Canadian law requires that you show proof of citizenship and identity. For U.S. citizens, a valid passport book, a passport card, or a NEXUS card are sufficient to satisfy the requirement.

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When you enter Canada, a Canada Border Services Agency officer may ask to see your passport and a valid visa, if one is necessary. If you are a citizen of the United States over the age of 16, you will need a Passport, a Passport Card or Enhanced Driver's Licence (only issued by certain states) to enter Canada.

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Traveling across the border is free – but the items you bring back with you are a different story. You may need to pay duties, a special kind of taxes, on some goods you bring across the border.

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To drive into Mexico from the U.S., you're required to bring the appropriate identification, a couple permits (depending on how far into Mexico you're going), and your proof of Mexico auto insurance. If your car is financed, you'll also need a letter of permission from your lender.

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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. Consequently, Americans with an Enhanced Driver's License (EDL) who wish to enter Canada by vehicle are often able to do so without a passport.

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This means that, at least in theory, an overseas national can leave the UK following a full 6-month visit, re-apply for a visa from overseas and subsequently return to the UK, even if this is just a few short weeks later.

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