Travelers should prepare for the inspection process before arriving at the inspection booth. Individuals should have their crossing documents available for inspection and they should be prepared to declare all items acquired outside the U.S.
“Travelers who know how to cross the border help CBP facilitate their crossing,” said Director Field Operations Christopher Perry. “The time that is saved when travelers have their documents ready for us to process is really important during these busy holiday periods.”
In compliance with full implementation of the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative, which commenced June 1, 2009, all travelers, including U.S. and Canadian citizens, need to present documentary proof of citizenship. These documents include a Passport, U.S. Passport Card, trusted traveler card (NEXUS, SENTRI or FAST) or an Enhanced Drivers License. Children under the age of 16 can present an original or copy of their birth certificate. CBP remains practical and flexible in its implementation of the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative and continues to educate and inform the traveling public. For more information, please visit the WHTI Web site. ( http://www.getyouhome.gov/html/eng_map.html )
Frequent cross-border travelers are encouraged to participate in the NEXUS program, which allows pre-screened, low risk travelers to proceed with little or no delay into the United States and Canada.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection is the unified border agency within the Department of Homeland Security charged with the management, control and protection of our nation's borders at and between the official ports of entry. CBP is charged with keeping terrorists and terrorist weapons out of the country while enforcing hundreds of U.S. laws.
