Passport to travel by land?
 

Is the date June 1st, 2009 as of now? I'm finding conflicting info online.

This in regards to traveling from US to Canada and back, in case this is not clear.

This is what the Dept of State Website has to say.

LAND AND SEA TRAVEL
The following summarizes information available on the Department of Homeland Security’s website.

* CURRENTLY:
U.S. citizens need to present either (a) a passport, passport card (scheduled to be in full production beginning in July 2008), or WHTI-compliant document; or (b) a government-issued photo ID, such as a driver’s license, along with proof of citizenship, such as a birth certificate.
* LATER:
On June 1, 2009, the U.S. government will implement the full requirements of the land and sea phase of WHTI. The proposed rules require most U.S. citizens entering the United States at sea or land ports of entry to have a passport, passport card, or WHTI-compliant document.

PS here is the definition of WHTI compliant documents. I am NOT at all informed on the exact nature of an enhanced driver's license.

# WHTI-Compliant Travel Documents for U.S. citizen travel via land or sea, as of January 31, 2008:
* Trusted Traveler Cards (NEXUS, SENTRI, or FAST)
* State Issued Enhanced Driver’s License (when available)
* Enhanced Tribal Cards (when available)
* U.S. Military Identification with Military Travel Orders
* U.S. Merchant Mariner Document when traveling in conjunction with official maritime business
* Native American Tribal Photo Identification Card
* Form I-872 American Indian Card

PPS I decided long ago that getting a regular passport was what I should do.

The passport cards are intended for land use. The card may not be used to travel by air, says the official web site.

The first time I presented my passport at a Canada to a US Border gate guard at a land crossing, I am not sure he knew what it was because he looked at it, looked at me, and then asked "What is your name?"

I have considered two other possibilities: (a)he was color blind and could not match my face to the picture and/or (b)he was dyslexic and had trouble reading my name. Bright fellow.

Someone else suggested that he had orders to ask everyone their name. A passport does not talk, not even these new ones with the magic chip.

Of course, the last name of Brown is difficult for some people.