When you're crossing between Canada and the United States at the Detroit-Windsor border through the underwater tunnel or over the bridge, governments of both countries require you to have a valid passport or other form of acceptable identification. Frequent travelers often apply for documentation other than their passport to expedite the crossing process.


For decades, residents of the United States and Canada could pass freely across the Detroit-Windsor border without having to display a passport. After the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001, both governments began to increase security screening at land, air and sea borders. In 2007, passports became mandatory if traveling from one country to the other by air, and as of June 1, 2009, travelers crossing at a land or sea border have been required to show their passports or other forms of valid identification.

NEXUS Program

For people who travel daily or regularly from one country to the other via the Detroit-Windsor tunnel or bridge, carrying a passport can be a hassle. A regular traveler can apply for a NEXUS pass, considered a valid alternative to a passport by both countries. The application process is lengthy, but if you are able to obtain a NEXUS pass, you have access to a dedicated lane at the border crossing and can pass through with minimal questioning.

Other Documentation

Passports and NEXUS passes are the most common identification shown at the border, but the governments of both countries offer other alternatives to these forms of ID. U.S. citizens can obtain a U.S. passport card, which contains the same information as passport but can fit in a wallet, while residents of certain states and provinces can apply for an enhanced driver's license. These two documents are valid only at land and sea crossings.

Tunnel Crossing

Many of the border crossings between the U.S. and Canada are over land or bridge, so the Detroit-Windsor tunnel offers a unique alternative to travelers. The tunnel has been in use since 1930 and is roughly a mile long. The tunnel exits into downtown Detroit and Windsor's business district.

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