What kind of ID do we need??

[CJ]

We're driving to Buffalo, and then flying into Orlando. I'm bring my, DH, and DS's (18) driver's licenses and DD's (15) birth certificate. Should DH, DS, and myself bring our birth certificates as well?

 

[CindyAnn]

Hi CJ - Yes, everybody needs to have a birth certificate (or passport, landed immigrant card etc)! Anybody who has a licence should take one too - good photo ID, even if you're not planning to rent a car. If you're paring down the contents of your wallet for the trip, don't forget to take any insurance cards and CAA cards, if you have them. We're thinking of flying out of Buffalo next time, too - I'd love to hear how it all works out!

 

[PoohBWV]

We fly from Detroit all the time and find that it is very convenient as you clear customs when driving, at the border of course, which is usually a very simple procedure. Your flight is a domestic US flight, so you do not need to clear customs at the airport which is always a pain. Definitely make sure you have birth certificates, health cards make excellent photo ID, drivers licence of course, and any insurance papers (cancellation or medical).

 

[maryann4086]

Flying out of Buffalo, is the best. However, to fly from Orlando to Buffalo, you must have a picture ID. Drivers Lic, passport etc. I think you're daughter should be ok with her birth certificate. I got myself a passport and put my kids names on it, just to make things easier.
If you think you'll be flying through Buffalo frequently, it would be a great thing to have.

 

[nancy13]

My family and I are doing the same as your family. I have never flown out of Buffalo before but I know what a hassle customs is at Orlando. So hopefully this will be a pleasant exp. The price of our flights certainly was the biggest thing we considered when we booked Buffalo although we are flying on Southwest which I have heard mixed reviews for. Like everyone else said you do need both picture and prove of ciztienship (sp?) We do not have picture ID for our daughter (3) but that has never been a problem. Hope you have a great time!

 

[Quasiboato]

You'll need a photo I.D. for the airline to board the plane.

The same I.D. will suffice at the border. I previously lived in St. Catharines and went to the US frequently, they rarely ask for I.D. at the border. The best place to cross is the Lewiston-Queenston bridge (close to the airport).

I last crossed July this year - I was only asked for I.D. (I have a "Green Card") coming in to the U.S.

 

[blizzard]

You MUST have proof of citizenship to cross the border. Just because they haven't or don't ask to see it, doesn't mean they can't deny you entry if they do ask to see it. A driver's licence is not proof of citizenship - You need a passport, birth certificate, or landed immigrant card.

If you don't have proof and are trying to get back into Canada when they ask for it, be prepared for a big hassle and at the very least a strong lecture. (Also they will probably note your licence plate number on the computer, and you will be asked for it every time after)

Don't believe anyone that says a driver's licence is ok as proof.