Driving to Canada without a passport for a minor

[Canada 02]

We are driving to Toronto from the US in a few weeks. The passport for two of my kids has expired. I've seen some websites claiming minors can enter Canada by land with a government issued ID (eg. birth certificate). However, I can't find anything official on the Travel Canada government page.

I mentioned this to a fellow Canadian colleague who was surprised that this was possible, so now I'm doubting the validity of this information.

Can someone confirm?

[Weitz]

https://travel.state.gov/content/tra...es/Canada.html

Entry into Canada: Canadian law requires that all persons entering Canada carry proof of citizenship and identity. A valid U.S. passport, passport card, or NEXUS card satisfies these requirements for U.S. citizens.

Children under 16 only need proof of U.S. citizenship.

[Canada 02]

First, thanks for that. I have seen that page. The worrier in me wonders why there is no mention of land entry vs travel by air. I know you need a passport to fly into Canada (including minors). So that information does not cover my specific situation. Second, it is a US webpage, so no authority or jurisdiction. I'd like to find official information on the CBSA or other Canadian government page, or hear from someone who has had their kids cross a land border without a passport.

[transplant99]

Have you thought of calling the Canadian Consulate?

Here are some contacts for them

https://travel.gc.ca/assistance/emba.../united-states

[DFO]

I’d just call Border Services and ask an agent.

[GGG]

10 years ago this was true. We had done a few times with a 2 and 4 year old. Not sure if anything has changed.

[Northendzone]

If both birth parents/legal guardians are not crossing with the child then you may need a notarized document from the parent not with the kids.

If both birth parents/guardians are with the kids, then that is not as much of an issue

[Amethyst]

My friend drove to the US and back this summer with her two year old child, who did not have a passport.

[nfotiu]

I'm about 99% sure you'll be ok at a land crossing, especially if both parents are there. Do bring their expired passports though. Don't present them voluntarily at the crossing, but if it goes weird, they could help your case as they are still considered qualifying documents in some cases, especially with minors.

[dino7c]

I know 100% it's fine the other way for children under 16 (Canada to US)

[Canada 02]

Thank to everyone for their advice and feedback
I left a message with CBSA, and they got back to me a week later.

Land and sea entrance into Canada by a Canadian citizen seventeen (17) years of age and under can be completed with an original birth certificate alone. Photo identification is not required until the age of eighteen (18).

Land and sea entrance into Canada by a United States (U.S.) citizen seventeen (17) years of age and under can be completed with an original birth certificate alone. Photo identification is not required until the age of eighteen (18).