fdt - 12-8-2007 at 02:49 PM
The U.S. Department of State and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) remind the traveling public that as of Jan. 31, 2008, all adult
travelers will be required to present proof of citizenship, such as a birth certificate, and proof of identity, such as a driver’s license, when
entering the United States through land and sea ports of entry. DHS will be issuing a notice in the Federal Register formally announcing the change.
This change is a necessary step to prepare travelers and ease the transition to the future requirements of the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative
(WHTI). WHTI proposes to establish documentation requirements for travelers entering the United States who were previously exempt, including citizens
of the U.S., Canada, and Bermuda. As recommended by the 9/11 Commission, Congress enacted WHTI in the Intelligence Reform and Terrorism Prevention Act
of 2004. WHTI will result in both enhanced security and increased facilitation across the border once implemented. During this transition, DHS and the
Department of State are working diligently to minimize the impact on legitimate trade and travel.
Currently, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers may accept oral declarations of citizenship from U.S. and Canadian citizens seeking entry
into the United States through a land or sea border. However, as of January 31, 2008:
· Oral declarations of citizenship alone will no longer be accepted.
· U.S. and Canadian citizens ages 19 and older will need to present a government-issued photo ID, such as a driver’s license, along with proof of
citizenship, such as a birth certificate or naturalization certificate.
· Children ages 18 and under will only be required to present proof of citizenship, such as a birth certificate.
http://www.state.gov/r/pa/prs/ps/2007/dec/96151.htm