Planning a trip to Canada and wondering about acceptable forms of identification? If you possess an Enhanced Driver’s License (EDL), you might be curious if it’s sufficient for entry. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of using an EDL for travel to Canada, covering various entry points and important considerations for a smooth border crossing.
Entering Canada by Land, Air, or Sea: What You Need to Know
Canada welcomes visitors from around the globe, and understanding the entry requirements is crucial for a hassle-free experience. The specific documents you’ll need depend on your citizenship and how you’re entering the country.
Traveling by Air
The process for entering Canada by air generally involves three steps:
- Pre-Arrival: Complete an Advance Declaration online or fill out a Declaration Card. Submitting your customs and immigration declaration online using Advance Declaration up to 72 hours before arrival can save time.
- Arrival (First CBSA Checkpoint): Present your Declaration Card or Advance Declaration kiosk receipt, identification, and travel documents to a border services officer.
- Baggage and Second CBSA Checkpoint: Collect your baggage and proceed to the next checkpoint, showing your declaration documents and any receipts for duty and taxes paid.
Alt text: A traveler utilizes an airport kiosk with the ArriveCAN app to complete a customs declaration form.
Entering by Land
For land border crossings, follow signs to the primary inspection point. A border services officer will examine your identification and take your verbal declaration. Keep in mind that U.S. to Canada border wait times can vary.
Arriving by Private Boat
If arriving by private boat, proceed directly to a designated marine telephone reporting site and call the CBSA Telephone Reporting Centre (TRC) at 1-888-226-7277 for clearance. Further information is available regarding reporting requirements for private boaters.
Enhanced Driver’s Licenses: Are They Sufficient?
The Government of Canada “recommends” that Canadian citizens travel with a valid Canadian passport. However, international transportation companies may require travelers to present a passport before boarding. So what about an Enhanced Driver’s License?
An Enhanced Driver’s License (EDL) is a state-issued driver’s license that provides proof of identity and U.S. citizenship. It’s accepted as a valid document to enter the U.S. from Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean through land and sea ports of entry.
For U.S. citizens, an EDL is generally accepted for entry into Canada at land and sea border crossings.
However, airlines may have different requirements. Canadian citizens may face delays or may not be allowed to board a plane if they present other documents such as an Enhanced Driver’s License (EDL) or Enhanced Identification Card (EIC).
Alt text: Overview of a land border crossing station between the United States and Canada.
Other Acceptable Documents
Besides an EDL, other documents that may be accepted (though a passport is always recommended) include:
- NEXUS card (used where the program is available)
- Free and Secure Trade (FAST) card used in FAST lanes
- Canadian citizenship card
- Certificate of Indian Status
- Birth certificate in combination with either a driver’s license or a government-issued photo identification.
Important Note for Permanent Residents: Permanent residents of Canada need a valid permanent resident card to re-enter the country.
Additional Tips for a Smooth Border Crossing
- Traveling with Children: Parents sharing custody should carry copies of legal custody documents. A consent letter is recommended when a child travels alone, with one parent, or in the care of others. Example of a consent letter to permit travel by a child with a single custodian or parent.
- Be Prepared for Questions: Border services officers may ask questions about your travel plans, the purpose of your visit, and goods you’re bringing into Canada.
- Declare Everything: Declare all goods you are bringing into Canada. Failure to do so can result in seizure of goods.
- Keep Receipts Handy: Keep receipts for accommodation, purchases, and vehicle repairs readily available.
Conclusion
While an Enhanced Driver’s License can be used to enter Canada via land and sea borders, a passport remains the most reliable and universally accepted document for international travel. Checking with your airline regarding their requirements is essential if traveling by air. Being prepared with the correct documentation and understanding the entry procedures will contribute to a smooth and enjoyable trip to Canada.
