According to the U.S. State Department, proof of citizenship is required for all travelers between the United States and Canada over land or by sea. For citizens of the United States and Canada, this can be a birth certificate, naturalization certificate or expired but undamaged passport. A valid passport or passport card also fulfills this requirement.
According to the U.S. State Department, proof of identity is required for all travelers between the United States and Canada over land or by sea. This can be a valid government issued photo ID such as a driver's license; a valid passport or passport card will also fulfill this requirement.
According to the Canada Border Service Agency, children who are younger than 16 years old are only required to present proof of citizenship in the form of a birth certificate, naturalization certificate, passport or passport card when they cross the United States-Canadian border by land or sea. Children who travel with people other than those who have full legal custody may be also required to present a notarized affidavit of consent to travel from the child's parents or legal guardians. All parents or legal guardians are required to sign the notarized document.
A valid passport is required for all passengers traveling between the United States and Canada by air, according to the U.S. State Department. There are no exceptions to this requirement. A valid passport fulfills both the proof of citizenship and proof of identity requirements.
According to the Canada Border Service Agency, frequent travelers between the United States and Canada can apply to become a member of the NEXUS trusted traveler program. Members of NEXUS receive a special travel card that grants them expedited border crossing. A NEXUS card fulfills all proof of citizenship and proof of identity requirements.
