Stupid Question: Travel to Canada

which is sort of dumb since a DL is good for crossing at drive-in borders.

"James Robinson" wrote in message
...
PTRAVEL wrote:

I've got to go to Canada this weekend and, not thinking about this trip,
I
sent in my passport for renewal today. In the past, I always used my
passport for travel to Canada, so I never gave much thought to entry and
re-entry requirements. Can I fly to Canada and back with just my
drivers
license?

Thanks in advance.

Likely not. The airline will probably not allow you to fly, though you
can call them and see what their rules are. You will likely need some
proof of citizenship. Your birth certificate would be adequate,
assuming you are US born.

DALing wrote:

Can I fly to Canada and back with just my drivers license?

Likely not.

which is sort of dumb since a DL is good for crossing at drive-in
borders.

I'm not so sure (any first hand experience?)

Once upon a time (10-15 years ago) I routinely flashed my BC (and only
my BC) when driving into the US. But for the past 5-10 years I've
flashed only my passport at land entry points.

DALing wrote:

which is sort of dumb since a DL is good for crossing at drive-in borders.

That depends on the mood of the inspector. The rule is that you need
both a government-issued photo ID and proof of citizenship. That means a
passport, which covers both, or a photo ID plus a birth certificate,
green card, military ID or citizenship card. Even an expired passport is
OK.

The inspector can choose if he will accept something less, such as a
voter registration card, or driver's license. There is no guarantee that
you will be let in, however, and you might get in a major hassle during
heightened security, particularly if you aren't white, have an accent,
or look seedy. The best preparation is to bring the right documents.

On Wed, 14 Jan 2004 01:47:34 GMT, James Robinson
wrote:

if you aren't white, have an accent,
or look seedy.

It seems to vary by location. My father in law isn't white, has an
accent and let's just say he isn't the world's sharpest dresser. On
top of that he is very hard of hearing and 90 years old. He crosses
the Detroit-Windsor border frequently with just a DL and two usually
inoperative hearing aids. His kids though are always with him and can
explain things.