Get travel documents in order soon, Customs and Border Protection advises

The Department of Homeland Security's U.S. Customs and Border Protection reminds U.S. and Canadian citizens that travelers will see a change in travel document requirements at the land border in 2009.

On June 1, the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative will go into effect at land and sea ports of entry, requiring travelers — including U.S. and Canadian citizens — to present an approved travel document to enter the United States. The approved documents include a passport; a passport card; a NEXUS, SENTRI, or FAST trusted traveler program card; or a state- or province-issued enhanced driver's license. Travelers under age 16 need to present only a birth certificate or alternative proof of citizenship. Visit www.GetYouHome.gov for specific information on documents and how to apply for them.

For travelers who have yet to obtain WHTI-compliant documents, a two-document option, such as a driver license and birth certificate, will be acceptable until June 1. Travelers without appropriate travel documents may face delays as CBP officers attempt to verify identity and citizenship.

WHTI-compliant documents include:

• U.S. or Canadian passports.

• Trusted Traveler Card (NEXUS, SENTRI, or FAST).

• U.S. passport card.

• State- or province-issued Enhanced Driver's Licenses (when and where available).

• Form I-872 American Indian Card, or (when available) enhanced tribal cards.

• Military identification cards presented by members of the U.S. armed forces traveling on official orders.

• U.S. Merchant Mariner Document (for U.S. citizens, when conducting official maritime business).