Passcard for Canada?

jimh425 wrote:
I don't know what a passcard is, but in adjoining states we can get in/back with an enhanced driver's license. Keep in mind that it's generally easier to get into Canada unless you have a DUI than getting back into the US.

Interesting how different experiences lead us..

I've always found it way smoother coming home. When I'm heading north, I'm a visitor requesting the opportunity to visit. I understand the game.

But upon returning, I'm coming home. This is my home. I'm not asking, and there isn't any doubt where I'm heading or whether I'll get there. Longest I've been spoken with coming back in is a long minute, and that's with 3 or 4 unrelated guys in the truck.

Just find the different perspective's intriguing....

I find the comments about getting a passport 'in case' to be smart planning. One never knows what will happen.

Emergencies are not just physical. Suppose someone close to you, relative or whatever needs you right now? You'll want to fly home not drive 2 or 3 days. Just get the passport. I've been on that end a few times when I flew from Fairbanks or Anchorage back to Atlanta, wondering, even on a jet, if I would make it in time or not. Can't imagine what that would be like driving all night and day.

Also, be sure the vehicle you are driving is registered to you or someone traveling with you. Up to date registration and insurance. Don't travel into the country without a load and then return with a load (Truck Camper in Bed) as they pull up the photo of your vehicle upon entry. If it does not match, they will do a review/inspection. Pets need to have proper vaccination receipts with you that they are up to date. Don't bring guns in or out without proper credentials or paperwork completed before arriving at the border. Basically don't bring a handgun into the country.

If your passport was issued with a Passport "Card" that can be used in lieu of the standard booklet style passport. This "Passport Card" is IR and can be read as you approach the border entry. These are only usable with Countries honoring this I.D., such a Canada, Mexico, Bahamas and a few others.

Happy travels.

b

Never heard of the "Passcard".. Whas'dat???
https://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/passports/information/card/Difference-Between-Passport-Book-and-Card.html
found it, sounds like the NEXUS Card... interesting..

I normally use the NEXUS card which is well worth the hassle of getting for the special lines at some locations, not all..

While I have the Passport, NEXUS, and had a WA Enhanced DL, SD apparently doesn't have one yet, they only want one and need to "Cover" or put away the others or their RID will pick them all up and drive them crazy, aka as PO'd.... which at a boarder X-ing is not a good thing to have happen.

Curious on the Passcard, I'll search it...
thanks..

Getting a passport is not hard. Then you are sure. No you can't fly without a passport if you have an emergency. Not sure about Canada but the leading cause of death and injury in Alaska is an accident.

In an emergency in order to fly home you will need the full passport.

Driving ........YES

Flying .........NO


Canada: Crossing the Border

I don't know what a passcard is, but in adjoining states we can get in/back with an enhanced driver's license. Keep in mind that it's generally easier to get into Canada unless you have a DUI than getting back into the US.

Canadian border site

US border site

It's always a bit different than what is written. Options exist (lic with birth cert, etc), but the reality is, they want a passport. I travel across with ever changing groups, often several times a year, in addition to simple crossings with the wife. It's always made clear of what they 'want'. Enhanced lic's work ok... but preference is...

This is the link to the Canadian Border Services Agency. Scroll down the page and you'll see what you need.

Click here for CBSA requirements