New rules for the types of identification that U.S. and Canadian citizens must present to cross into the country took effect Thursday and authorities were optimistic the changes would not cause significant delays, the Associated Press reported.
Under the new rules, people will no longer be allowed to simply declare to immigration officers at border crossings that they are citizens. Those 19 and older must show proof of citizenship such as a passport, trusted traveler card or a birth certificate and government-issued ID such as a driver’s license, AP said.
There were no additional delays during the morning rush hour in Detroit, which has the busiest northern border crossing, AP reported, citing a U.S. Customs and Border Protection official. The bridge and tunnel crossings from Windsor, Ontario, into Detroit typically see wait times of about 30 minutes.
Mexican citizens will continue to have to present valid passports and visas. Canadian citizens previously were not required to show a passport, but will need one after next year.
Meanwhile, the Department of Homeland Security is making an additional $48.5 million available to assist states with REAL ID implementation, the agency announced said Tuesday.
REAL ID sets uniform standards that enhance the integrity, security and reliability of state-issued drivers’ licenses and identification cards.
The additional funding, added to the $31.3 million previously made available for the program. REAL ID was recommended by the 9/11 Commission and mandated by Congress in 2005.
