Travel to Canada
The Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI) from the Department of Homeland Security established permanent changes to the process of crossing the U.S. border with Canada. We’ve done the homework for you. Below is everything you need to know, including links to government sites that publish the pertinent info and to resources you may need to secure documentation. If the following does not answer your questions contact us and we will help you figure it out. Use the quick links below to jump to the info you need.
- Who Needs What Documents?
- Exception for Religious Groups (READ THIS!)
- How & Where to Get Documents. Passport Card, Passport Book, Enhanced Drivers License
Who Needs What Documents?
- All persons 16 years of age or older traveling by land over the U.S./ Canada border need to have either a Passport Book, a Passport Card, or an Enhanced Drivers License. SEE EXCEPTION BELOW!
- All minors of under the age of 16 need only their birth certificate, the original or a copy of the original.
Source: U.S. State Department Web Page
Exception for Religious Groups: READ THIS!!!
Beginning June 1, 2009, U.S. and Canadian citizen children under age 19 arriving by land or sea from contiguous territory and traveling with a school group, religious group, social or cultural organization, or sports team, may also present an original or copy of his or her birth certificate, a Consular Report of Birth Abroad, a Naturalization Certificate, or a Canadian Citizenship Card.
The group should be prepared to present a letter on organizational letterhead with the following information:
- The name of the group and supervising adult;
- A list of the children on the trip, and the primary address, phone number, date of birth, place of birth, and name of at least one parent or legal guardian for each child; and
- A written and signed statement of the supervising adult certifying that he or she has obtained parental or legal guardian consent for each participating child.
Source: U.S. State Department Web Page
How/Where to Get Documents
Passport Card
This will cost a little over $60 ($30 for the Passport Card, $25 for the processing fee and the photos will cost you anywhere from $6 – $20). Follow these steps to get a Passport Card:
- Get a Passport Photo. A great place to get your Passport photos is at CVS. Click here to grab a coupon to get your photos for $7.99. Click here to locate a store near you.
- Apply for the Passport Card: To apply for a Passport Card click here. Once you finish the application, print it out, locate the nearest place to turn in your application, and a list of all the items and documentation you need to have with you when you turn your application. Make sure that you send a check or money order with the application to cover the cost. All checks and money orders should be made out to the “Department of State.”
- Time Line: You may choose Routine Service (4-6 week turnaround) or Expedited Service (2-3 week turnaround) for an additional $60 fee.
Source: U.S. State Department Web Page
Passport Book
This will cost a little over $140 ($110 for the Passport, $25 for the processing fee and the photos will cost you anywhere from $6 – $20). Follow these steps to get a Passport Book:
- Get a Passport Photo. A great place to get your Passport photos is at CVS. Click here to grab a coupon to get your photos for $7.99. Click here to locate a store near you.
- Apply for the Passport Book: To apply for a Passport click here. Once you finish the application, print it out, locate the nearest place to turn in your application, and a list of all the items and documentation you need to have with you when you turn your application. Make sure that you send a check or money order with the application to cover the cost. All checks and money orders should be made out to the “Department of State.”
- Time Line: You may choose Routine Service (4-6 week turnaround) or Expedited Service (2-3 week turnaround) for an additional $60 fee.
Source: U.S. State Department Web Page
Enhanced Drivers License
Available in the following states:
- Michigan ($45): You can purchase an Enhanced Drivers License at any of the State accredited DMV locations. To find one click here. You must be at least 18 years old. Required documentation varies based on whether you are upgrading an existing drivers license or getting a drivers license for the first time. Source: Michigan Department of State Web Page
- New York ($30 in addition to regular fees): You can purchase an Enhanced Drivers License at any of the State accredited DMV locations. To find one click here. Make sure to bring the required documentation. Source: New York DMV Web Page
- Vermont ($25 in addition to regular fees): You can purchase an Enhanced Drivers License at any of the State accredited DMV locations. To find one click here. Make sure to bring the required documentation. Source: Vermont DMV Web Page
