Residents of British Columbia and Washington State have several options to cross the border:
These cards are made for crossing...
NEXUS
- Dedicated approach lane bypasses lineups at the border.
- No fee for children under 18.
- Cards are good for 5 years.
- Valid ID for travel between the U.S.A. and Canada.
- Expedited security screening at Vancouver International Airport.
- Expedited marine reporting
B.C. Enhanced Drivers Licence
- Convenient wallet-sized alternative to a passport for travel into the U.S. by land or water.
- Less expensive than a passport.
- Speed individuals’ border inspection and helps reduce wait times for everyone.
- Many U.S. inspection stations are operating a Ready Lane for EDLs that provide additional time savings for travelers.
Insurance Corporation of British Columbia (ICBC) EDL information and application
WA Enhanced Drivers License
- Convenient wallet-sized alternative to a passport for travel into the U.S. by land or water.
- Less expensive than a passport.
- Speed individuals’ border inspection and helps reduce wait times for everyone.
- Many U.S. inspection stations are operating a Ready Lane for EDLs that provide additional time savings for travelers.
WA State Dept. of Licensing EDL information and application
Comparisons for NEXUS, EDLs (Enhanced Drivers Licence), and EIDs (Enhanced Identification Card):
Price
NEXUS: $50 and valid for 5 years ($10/year). No fee for children under 18.
BC EDL/EIC: $35 (above regular licence fee ($7/year if paid on the 5 year renewal cycle).
WA EDL/EID: $15 above regular license fee ($3/year if paid on the 5 year renewal cycle). EID $35 and valid for 5 years ($7/year).
Border Benefits
NEXUS:
- Approved alternative to a passport for travel between the U.S.A., Canada, and Mexico.
- Access to dedicated NEXUS lane and booth at locations where NEXUS operates.
- All persons in vehicle must have a valid NEXUS card to use the NEXUS lane.
BC EDL/EIC & WA EDL/EID:
- Approved alternative to a passport for entry to the U.S.A. by land or water.
- At Peace Arch and Lynden the U.S. is operating a Ready Lane. All persons over 16 must have EDL/EID (or other approved RFID) to access a Ready Lane.
Air Benefits
NEXUS:
- Vallid document for air travel between Canada, U.S.A., and Mexico.
- Dedicated line at security check points at many locations.
BC EDL/EIC & WA EDL/EID:
- Not approved for international air travel