Originally published Sunday, August 24, 2008 at 12:00 AM

Do I need passport if I'm driving to Canada?

When will U.S. citizens need a passport to cross into Canada by land?

ID for road trip to Canada

Q: I want to travel to Canada via car — I have my birth certificate and driver's license. When do I need to also have a passport to cross the border at Blaine?

— Jean Telford, Camano Island

A: For land travel — driving, train, bus — between the U.S. and Canada, you don't need a passport yet. However, air travelers are required to have a passport for all flights between the two countries. For your drive to Canada via Blaine you'll be fine with your proof of U.S. citizenship (your birth certificate) and government-issued photo ID (your driver's license). Starting next year, likely in June, a passport or other federally approved ID — such as the new U.S. passport card or the Washington enhanced driver's license — must be used for all travel between the two countries. A firm date hasn't been announced yet. For more information on ID requirements for U.S.-Canada travel, see the Web site of the Department of Homeland Security, www.dhs.gov/xtrvlsec/crossingborders/.

— Kristin Jackson

If you have a question about travel in the Pacific Northwest, British Columbia or Alaska, ask us. Go to seattletimes.com/travel (and look for "Ask Travel"). Sorry, but due to the volume of questions we can't answer every one.

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