Crossing the Border Between Canada and North Dakota

The information on this page try to answer questions you may have regarding travel between the United States and Canada, including answers to questions often asked by those traveling to and from our northern neighbor.

Hours at three North Dakota ports of entry have been temporarily expanded through July 30, 2023. U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) temporarily expanded operating hours at the Maida, Northgate and Sherwood ports of entry in North Dakota. The points of entry will operate from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m, two additional hours of operation. After July 30 CBP will assess traffic volumes at the ports.

  1. Do I need a passport to get into the U.S.?
  2. What are approved travel documents for U.S. citizens? 
  3. What are approved travel documents for Canadian citizens? 
  4. Do I need a passport if I’m entering through the International Peace Garden? 
  5. What travel documents are required for traveling with children? 
  6. Are purchases made by Canadian residents exempt from North Dakota sales tax? 
  7. Are you able to make purchases if you don't plan on staying overnight in the U.S.? 
  8. What is the currency exchange rate?
  9. Where can I find North Dakota points of entry?

Do I need a passport to get into the U.S.?

As of June 1, 2009, a U.S. law requires travelers to present a passport or other approved document when entering or returning to the United States. Make sure you're ready for your next trip across the border.

What are approved travel documents for U.S. citizens?

  • U.S. Passport - An internationally recognized travel document that verifies identity and citizenship and is accepted for travel by air, land and sea.
  • U.S. Passport Card - A new, limited-use travel document that is smaller and costs less than a U.S. passport and is only valid for travel by land and sea.
  • Enhanced Driver's License - Several states are issuing this voluntary driver's license that denotes identity and citizenship and is specifically designed for travel into the U.S. by land or sea.
  • Trusted Traveler Program Cards - NEXUS, SeNTRI or FAST cards can speed entry to the U.S. and are issued to pre-approved, low-risk travelers for land or sea travel. The NEXUS card can be used at land or sea ports of entry and in participating airports with a NEXUS kiosk. For Children - U.S. citizens under the age of 16, or under the age of 19 traveling with a school, religious or other youth group, may present a birth certificate, consular report of birth abroad, or naturalization certificate.

What are approved travel documents for Canadian citizens?

  • Canadian Passport - An internationally recognized travel document that verifies identity and citizenship and is accepted for travel by air, land and sea. The Canadian government encourages all Canadians to get a passport if they plan to travel internationally, including to the U.S.
  • Enhanced Driver's License/Enhanced Identification Card - Several Canadian provinces/territories are issuing this voluntary driver's license that denotes identity and citizenship and is specifically designed for travel into the U.S. by land or sea.
  • Trusted Traveler Program Cards - NEXUS or FAST cards can speed entry to the U.S. and are issued to pre-approved travelers. FAST cards are valid for land or sea travel. The NEXUS card can be used at land or sea ports of entry and in participating airports with a NEXUS kiosk. Children - Canadian citizens under the age of 15, or under the age of 18 traveling with a school, religious or other youth group, may present a birth certificate, consular report of birth abroad, naturalization certificate or Certificate of Canadian citizenship.

Do I need a US Passport if I am visiting the IPG but not going into Canada?

The International Peace Garden has a waiver on the passport regulations. Visitors are invited to tour the attraction without needing passports and/or approved travel documents. Documentation of birth and residency are required (certified copy of birth certificate and approved state identification). U.S. Customs and Border Protection reminds U.S. citizens traveling to the International Peace Garden from within the United States that they are not required to present a Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI)-compliant document when exiting the park into the U.S.

What travel documents are required for traveling with children?

When traveling with children, you want everything to go smoothly. While you can pick up items that you forgot to pack, if you forget vital papers, you may experience delays and increased scrutiny. These travel tips for family in the United States will ensure that you have the documents you need to avoid any difficulty when traveling with children. Click here for a list of necessary travel documents when traveling with children.

Click here for a printable Child Travel Consent form

Are purchases made by Canadian residents exempt from North Dakota sales tax?

Purchases made by Canadian residents are not exempt from North Dakota sales tax. Canadian residents shopping in North Dakota must pay the tax at the time of purchase. Canadian residents may obtain a refund of the sales tax paid on qualifying purchases. Goods consumed in North Dakota, including motel rooms, restaurant meals, etc. are not eligible for refund. Qualifying purchases include goods purchased to be removed from North Dakota for use exclusively outside the state, taxable purchases are $25.00 or more per receipt and the refund request is $15.00 or more.

Click here for the direct link to the refund form

Are you able to make purchases if you don't plan on staying overnight in the U.S.?

Yes, you are allowed to make purchases; however, you are subject to duty fees. If you choose to stay overnight in the U.S., the following rules apply: 24 hours – there is a CAN$50 duty- and tax-free exemption (if you spend more than CAN$50, you cannot claim this exemption) 48 hours – there is a CAN$400 duty- and tax-free exemption 7 days – there is a CAN$750-per-person duty- and tax-free exemption There may be some exceptions to the rules. 

What is the currency exchange rate?

Click here for up-to-date currency exchange rates.

Where are points of entry?

There are several points of entry between the Canadian provinces of Manitoba and Saskatchewan and North Dakota.

Click here to find the list

Here are more helpful links to aid in your travels:

Documentation required to enter USA
Documentation required to enter Canada
International Peace Garden entry requirements
Canadian refund - online application for ND tax paid
Canadian Border Service Agency
Traveling with minors
Crossing into or transiting through Canada
US Customs and Border Protection travel information