Make sure you have your passport, enhanced driver’s license, and any other necessary documents before you travel.
LAREDO, Texas — Summer travel is underway and officials with U.S. Border Patrol want you to make sure you have the necessary documents if you plan to travel across the border.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Office of Field Operations at Laredo Field Office is recommending that travelers apply for tourist permits online and check out border wait times on www.cbp.gov in an effort to minimize trip delays.
“As the summer travel season cranks into full gear, we strongly encourage those needing tourist permits to save time upon arrival to the U.S. by applying for them online and checking border wait times and choosing bridge crossings accordingly,” said Director of Field Operations Donald R. Kusser, Laredo Field Office. “We strongly encourage travelers to avail themselves of these time-saving tips to avoid delays and make the most out of their summer travel experience.”
Having the proper documents helps facilitate a smooth, orderly traffic flow.
U.S. citizens are reminded to bring a Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative-compliant document, such as a valid U.S. passport, Trusted Traveler Program card, Enhanced Driver’s License, or Enhanced Tribal Card, when reentering the United States and should be prepared to present a WHTI-compliant document if requested by a CBP Officer during a border inspection.
Make sure you have those documents as you approach the primary inspection booths and you also must declare all agricultural items, liquor, and currency or monetary instruments over $10,000.
Officials say you can reduce your wait times and avoid long lines by taking advantage of facial biometrics. If you need a tourist permit, you can file your applications electronically through the I-94 Website.
CBP also has free mobile apps that are available through the Google Play Store and Apple App Store, or by visiting the CBP Mobile Apps Directory. You can also monitor border wait times or obtain the BWT app so you can observe the wait times and make an informed decision on which bridge to use. These wait times are updated on an hourly basis.
Make sure you now the difference between items that are prohibited (which is forbidden by law to enter the U.S.) and ones that are restricted (items needing special permit to be allowed into the U.S.). That way you can avoid any potential delays or fines due to travelers bringing prohibited/restricted agricultural items.
Make sure you declare all agricultural items to a CBP officer when you arrive. Also consider consulting the “Know Before You Go” guide’s list of prohibited and restricted items.