entering the US from Canada help

[circa]

Hey guys, I'll make it short. I'm 17 years of age and have a G2 license. I'll be coming from Canada and was wondering if I'll be able to do so. I've heard you can only enter the states with a full "G" license and I haven't been able to find anything about that from either border (Canadian+American) sites. I've called the Canadian border and they were no help and only referred me to some long distance number not in service. Any help is appreciated!

[Jon]

Check with the US Embassy in Ottawa (http://canada.usembassy.gov/content/index.asp), or one of the Consulates scattered throughout the country.

Shouldn't think that "G" vs. "G2" would make a difference, since the identity-proofing is the same for either, right? I would, however, take a birth certificate or other proof of Canadian citizenship. If you've got time, getting a regular passport wouldn't hurt. They're going to be required soon enough, and if you're coming by air they already are.

[TheHoff]

Yes, you should always have a birth certificate or passport. I wouldn't ever try and cross on only a license of any type these days.

[Vascilli]

..I take it as long as you have a valid drivers license you're good to cross with all your other identification? (I can get my full license at 16 in Alberta..)

Or would being a minor be a problem?

[dafriz]

Currently, all you need to cross the border is a piece of VALID photo ID (Driver's License) and your birth certificate. However, having a passport is the easiest.

I'm not sure if there are any restrictions regarding driving around the US with a G2. Perhaps you'll face the same restrictions as the drivers in whatever state that aren't fully licensed (learner's permit, or whatever)? Definitely something you should look into...

[Michael_Lambert]

The graduated licencing is for ontario only. If you travel into the USA it is a state by state regulation. You would need to contact the Department of Motor vechiles for each state you are looking to drive in to find out what there laws/regulations are. NY state does not or atleast when i had my G2 did not see it as a "Valid Licence"

[dafriz]

OK, that's what I figured would be the case. I never tried to drive across the border while I had my G2 - I always happened to be traveling with someone who was fully licensed. Thankfully I never have to worry about that anymore, and no more driving tests until I'm senile!