31 January 2008

New ID rules won't stretch border wait, officials say

The following article is excerpted from the 31 January 2008 edition of the “Toronto Star”.

New document requirements for cross-border travellers, which come into effect today, will not increase wait times, officials say.

More than 75 per cent of people already come prepared with proper identification, said Kevin Corsaro, a spokesperson for U.S. Customs and Border Protection.

"The change will absolutely have no effect" on wait times, he said. He added that the law won't officially come into effect until June 2009.

"This is an educational period. If a Canadian or American does not have proper identification we will briefly explain to them that they are not in compliance with these new regulations. We will give them a pamphlet explaining why they are not in compliance and, if that is the only problem, they will proceed with their trip," he said.

Under the new regulations, travellers must present one of the following: government-issued photo identification plus a birth certificate or citizenship card; a passport; a NEXUS or a Free and Secure Trade card; an enhanced driver's licence; or an Indian and Northern Affairs Canada card.

A birth certificate is sufficient for anyone under 18. …