If you are driving up through Canada take note of the following:
Members of Inadmissible Classes include those who have been convicted of MINOR OFFENCES (including shoplifting, theft, assault, dangerous driving, unauthorized possession of a firearm, possession of illegal substances, etc.), or of INDICTABLE CRIMINAL OFFENCES (including assault with a deadly weapon, manslaughter, etc.). As well, those who have been convicted of DRIVING WHILE INTOXICATED (DWI) are considered Members of an Inadmissible Class. Driving while under the influence of alcohol is regarded as an extremely serious offence in Canada.
Those who have received TRAFFIC VIOLATIONS (including parking/speeding tickets, etc.) and other minor violations (i.e. littering, etc.) most likely will NOT be prohibited from entering Canada. Similarly, those who have JUVENILE CONVICTIONS (convictions for crimes committed while under age 18) most likely will NOT be prohibited from entering Canada unless they could have been tried as an adult for their offences.
More information can be found through the following links
http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2007/02/23/NEVIUS.TMP
http://www.usatoday.com/travel/news/2008-01-21-canada-border_N.htm
http://www.bearclawtours.com/usa.htm
www.geo.international.gc.ca/can-am/seattle/visas/inadmissible-en.asp
Very good information.
I’ve never had a problem going either way, but it is vitally important to carry appropriate identification including birth certificates for minors.
(or passports of course)
On a personal note, I’ve got my Alaska Airlines tickets and reservations on the Alaska Ferry now so all I need to do between now and August is Gear Up!