But what if you have a drunk driving conviction?
Drinking and driving is a criminal conviction. Not only does it come with heavy fines and license suspension, it can also severely limit your ability to travel. According to the Brewers Association, no matter how minor the conviction or how much time has passed since you were charged with DUI, you may be refused entry into the US when you try to cross the border. Even an official pardon may not allow you entry into the US.
If you have a drunk driving charge on your record, be prepared to fully disclose your history at the border and expect a lengthy wait time if further investigation is needed. You are encouraged to carry the original documentation of your conviction, including all original court documents like the transcript of evidence and section 253- Operation While Impaired of the Canadian Criminal Code. Defense lawyers also suggest carrying a letter from your doctor ensuring that you don’t have an alcohol dependency.
Five years after an impaired driving charge and sentencing, a person may be considered rehabilitated, but if after five years a person still doesn’t qualify, he or she can apply for individual rehabilitation. The cost of individual rehabilitation is $180.00 and could take up to a year to process.
Additionally, clearing customs at the airport may prove challenging if you are travelling by air and have an impaired driving record. This could lead to further investigation and interrogation before entering Canada.
An impaired driving charge can haunt you for the rest of your life, as even after time is served, this is a charge that may never go away, even with an official pardon. Drink responsibly, and never operate a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol.
0 Comments
Cindy lemieuc
I had a DUI in Sept. of 2011 and have been working on a pardon to enter the USA. Do I continually have to deal with getting bounced back and forth through agencies and costing me a lot of money. Will I be allowed entry to the USA with this one DUI in 2011? Without a pardon?
Cindy lemieuc
Any help with answers as being allowed to USA from Canada with a DUI from 2011. Will I be let in if pardon does not come through before August, 2014??
Steve
single DUI conviction is not grounds to deny entry into the U.S; however, multiple DUI convictions or a DUI conviction in combination with other misdemeanor offenses can make a person inadmissible and require a waiver prior to entering the United States. A crime of moral turpitude (CIMT) may be grounds to deny entry to the U.S.
Steve
single DUI conviction is not grounds to deny entry into the U.S; however, multiple DUI convictions or a DUI conviction in combination with other misdemeanor offenses can make a person inadmissible and require a waiver prior to entering the United States. A crime of moral turpitude (CIMT) may be grounds to deny entry to the U.S.
Steve. M
Hello Cindy. Please repost if you have gained entry to the USA please. My wife would like to visit areas in the United States and would like to know if you had any issues. Regards.
Cindy Lemieux
I regret that I have not been brave enough to try to go into the US since DUI conviction in 2011. I have travelled all over the world without touching down in the US and no problems anywhere. Still hoping I will get enough courage before pardon to try to go to US. Takes so long and costs a lot of money!!! Hopefully you have more courage than I have, all the best of luck!
matt hardy
Judy
I was informed a DISCHARGE from the Consolate in Canada, for DUI would be helpful.
Bill
I just received my record suspension and would like to resume my truck driving career. Guaranteed I will have to go to the US. Does anyone know if I will have any problems?