What happens if you enter California from Tijuana Mexico without a passport?

You cannot legally enter California from Tijuana, Mexico without a passport. If you attempt to do so, you will likely be detained by US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and either denied entry into the US or be deported.

If you are a US citizen, you can present your birth certificate or another document that proves your citizenship in lieu of a passport. If you are not a US citizen, you will need to present a valid passport in order to enter the US.

There is no exception to this rule, even for short visits or for people who live near the border. If you are caught entering or attempting to enter the US without a valid passport, you may face serious consequences, including fines, imprisonment, and deportation.