Please report back here what happened with your friend with the DUI. I know what you mean about being worried sick about it, just read my earlier post about crossing over with a DUI'er in the car. I'm pretty sure if your car isn't one of the randomly tagged cars you will pass right through.

Will do cygnus. I've heard that cars that have been over before are less likely to be tagged and questioned....I'm staying optimistic about the whole situation.

just find a desolate part of the border to cross around midnight,have your buddy pick you up on the other side.

I finally got my passport on the last day of mail before I go to Canada! Go figure. This is what everyone has been saying on here, but I am totally relieved to know that I can legally make it over and back (even though it wouldn't have been an issue without it). Good luck to everyone else having issues!

Well I am very confused after reading all this and that website concerning DWI someone please chime in. I had one in 1991, and in 1998. I attempted to apply for rehab but was laid off and didn't spend the $200.00 fee.

So when doing rehab paperwork in Minnesota, my local police ran a check and couln't find the 91 dwi. I had to goto the court administrator to search old court records. This took a half hour because it was not on any of their computers it was on paper only. They said it was so old they send the record to the BCA and do not keep it anymore.

So do I tell them about 1991? I will not be driving, my friend goes every year so hopefully this helps. We will be crossing in I. Falls.

Basically if they don't scan my passport I should be good. Otherwise 1998 will send me back as well as 1991. I am gonna give it a try anyhow. One more thing , does anyone know if I brought my paperwork completed and fee would I get in?

Thanks

Hibbingite--when they scan your passport it tells them that the passport is valid-- not a counterfiet. They have to check the NICP computer records for your criminal record--thats real easy for them if you give them your drivers lisc.

They don't have misdameanrs and felonies in Canada--they only have criminal code violations and DUI is a criminal code violation--hence if you have a Driving while Impaired conviction in Canada you have a criminal record. I assume your DWI was a misdemeanor and therefore I wouldn't refer to you as having a criminal record.

That said--If Sister Ann Michele slapped your face in 7th grade for gum chewing in class there will be a record of it on that NICP computer.
My advise is listen very carefully to the question and answer truthfully.

Some times they will ask you if you have ever been charged with a crime--not have you ever been convicted of a crime--big difference.

First off, thsnks for the advie.

I will be truthful, if asked was I ever charged, yes I was. Hopefully they don't continue and ask next have you been convicted. Yes they were misdemeanors here in the US. If you get one now it could be felony depending on what you drank.

i know this is really off subject but im wondering how you would be able to write a forum?? any helpers would b much appretiated

If you have one DWI that is at least 10 years old you can be considered as rehabilitated. If you have two DWIs, they will probably send you back to the states if they find out about it. Lying to the agents at the border would most likely get you a trip back to the US if you have two DWIs. Some friends of mine "forgot" about an extra carton of smokes and they spent six hours watching their van get detail stripped. The funny thing was that no one noticed an extra quart of whiskey that was in one of their boxes. If they scan your drivers license they will know everything about your driving record.

Thanks cold on, I uess either way if they ask if I was charged, I'll have to be truthful and say yes because I was charged and convicted of dwi in 1990, and 1998.

It sounds like I may make it in as long as they don't ask for my license so I am hoping I'll make it. At least if I do have to tell them, I am hoping they will let me pay a fee so I don't have our trip ruined. I know one thing, I'll be taking care of the rehab fee when I get back to work because my friend says you ain't been fishing until you been to Canada. Now I got a shot to go free minus my passport fee, and I'll probably be sent back. I have seen pics from up there and it sure looks fun!!!!
Well thanks to all whom responded and don't drink and drive! Here I am paying again as well as another reminder not to ever do it again!!!!

Just got back from a trip to Nestor Falls,ON. I had a buddy with that had a 4.5 yr. old DUI and never had an issue with anything. The key to approaching these gates is to look like you got things figured out. Keep everything close and look like your organized and ready for the trip. Good luck to all.

Just thought I would share a passport story for those with issues/concerns.

Due to mental error I did not apply for my passport until Friday the 10th, I needed it by Friday the 24th. I went over to my local post office and paid for it to be expedited. Well, even with that I was told it would be 2-3 weeks, meaning I probably still would not get it in time. To my amazement, it came in the mail today, 6 days later. So I would suggest going to the post office if you have timing issues about getting it before your trip..

I too did make it through with 2. Next year I will pay the fee so there will be no suspense. Was a great trip and glad I was able to go. It'll be tough to fish back home after Lac seul!!!!!

What are regulations for hauling in a 4 wheeler into Canada? Heading up to Nipigon and can't find info on this. THANKS.

Mike--liscense and insurance and you're good to go.