In a word........ Yes

 

The worst border crossings are Canada and the U.S. I have been all over South east Asia, Cuba, Mexico, Costa Rica and never experienced the trouble I have had with our western borders.

 

I will say that the muslim countries were very friendly once we give each man 2 cartons of cigs. Most corrupt agents I have seen is in Port Said.

 

A couple of years ago three of us were in Lake George, NY and decide to ride up to Montreal for lunch. When crossing the border we had to show passport, drivers license, and insurance card. We also got a terse interview: why are you coming to Canada, how long are you going to be here, where are you staying, are you here on business or pleasure? After about 5 minutes (each) we were allowed to proceed. I was the first in line and when he decided that I was not a terrorist or a criminal he said "You do realize that today is the Canada Grand Prix don't you?" I said that I hadn't realized that he wished me luck on the traffic.
Interestingly, later that afternoon when trying to leave Montreal they had the bridge closed because of a suicide jumper. It took us 3 hours, in 85* heat to get out of Montreal.

We had to show the same documents when crossing back into the U.S.. Then, about a mile down the road, NY troopers had a road block set up and we had to show license, reg, and insurance cards again.

 

I opted for the $20 passport card. Got it at the post office (you need an appointment) Got it in a week. Used it four times crossing. Once more this year for my ride to some haul roads.

 

I'm still laughing at this one. It wasn't until 3 or 5 years ago Canadian Customs Agent started to carry firearms. I have been entering Canada and the US by ships for the past 35 years. (Ferries and Cargo) The worst that would happen on either side of the border would be the Shipping Company would have to post a "$5000.00" Bond. Usually the Vessel's Capt is told not to let the "Offenders" go ashore. Most crew-members I know have a record of some kind. Major offenders would be prohibited from returning to Canada or Vise Versa. Most guys that made mistakes when they were young apply for "pardons".

If you want to cross the border into Canada more than likely, if you're honest with your answers, don't have any firearms and your DUI is more than 5 years old you shouldn't have any problems. Respect goes a long way on either side of the border. Remember Canadians are guests when they enter the States.

Major criminals going either direction (bank robbers, murderers, kidnappers or drug pushers) need not apply. Also, if you have outstanding warrants or charges against you the Border is not the place you want to be. Yes, Canada and USA have agreements and share criminal information. The Customs Agent is checking you out on the Computer in his both. Also, driving infraction convictions are available as well.

A Passport is actually only required to enter the USA. However, at Canadian border crossings a PassPort will assist you in clearing customs. If you want to get back into the US you will have a Passport with you anyway.

Unless you have a Pardon, violent offences, and drug offences on your record are not going to bode well for you. Just as most US Citizens don't want criminals from other Countries in theirs, Canadians would prefer to restrict access to Canada to any bad actors.

Canada is great place and lots of interesting things to see and do. Some of the road trips are just amazing. Niagara Falls is more for the newly wed and nearly dead but an interesting trip non the less. If you really want a trip you'll never forget visit Newfoundland, Cape Breton or any of the other Maritime Provinces. Quebec is special in it own way. Then there's also the west with the mountains etc. Roads in Canada are definitely not the same as State side. I personally love riding the midwest interstates of USA. Unfortunately theres no deserts in Canada and prices are probably a bit higher than what you are used to paying.

If you are serious about coming to Canada go to the Gov't of Canada web-site and ask all the questions you desire. If you've got nothing to hide don't worry about it. Guaranteed you'll have a good time.

 

Yup. Happened to me last year. Had a dwi in 2001, been to Canada 7 times in the next 10 years with no issues. Then bam. They made it known if i tried to come back, ever, next time they would arrest me. Nothing i need to see or do there anyway.

 

That is not true. One of the few laws that aren't the same.

 

Nope, both the US and Canada share information.

On paper yes, but it always comes down to the border guard's mood that day.



cheers

 

either country will not reconize a pardon.