New Document Requirements for Entry Into The U.S. Beginning January 31, 2008
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the U.S. Department of State (DOS) remind the traveling public that as of January 31, 2008, all adult travelers will be required to present proof of citizenship, such as a birth certificate, and proof of identity, such as a driver’s license, when entering the United States through land and sea ports of entry.
Currently, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers may accept oral declarations of citizenship from U.S. and Canadian citizens seeking entry into the United States through a land or sea border. However, as of January 31, 2008:
- Oral declarations of citizenship and identity alone will no longer be accepted,
- U.S. and Canadian citizens ages 19 and older will need to present a government-issued photo ID, such as a driver’s license, AND proof of citizenship, such as a birth certificate or naturalization certificate,
- Children ages 18 and under will only be required to present proof of citizenship, such as a birth certificate, and
- Passports and trusted traveler program cards – NEXUS, SENTRI and FAST – will continue to be accepted for cross-border travel.
To view the complete requirements, please see the Department of Homeland Security’s website regarding the new document requirements. Travel document requirements for Canadian citizens traveling to the United States by land or water are also available on the Canada Border Services Agency website.
