What are the laws and possible fines for crossing the border into Canada?

Amber James: What are the laws and possible fines for crossing the border into Canada?
Me and my friend are supposed to going to Canada tomorrow but we’ll be using another friend’s car who won’t be going with us on the trip. What are the laws surrounding that kind of thing? And also are there any fines/how much in relation to that? What would be the consequences if a law or regulation was broken?

Answers and Views:

Answer by Sarah
jail time

Answer by Canadian Gal
Pretty sure they deport you…might be a fine. But that’s only if you’re an illegal immigrant.

If you’re just visiting there shouldn’t be a problem so long as you have your passport for crossing the border. They won’t check if it’s your car or not so I wouldn’t worry about that.

Answer by umgrego2
I took my grandpa’s car across the border no problem, but we have the same last name.

If you bring a signed note from your friend (I’m serious) it will likely avoid any situations. Should be no problem as long as you’re not doing anything illegal (see posted link).

Answer by michinoku2001
They don’t usually check on the vehicle registration when you cross the border. Most likely you will be just waved through like mostly everyone else.

Answer by JuanB
If you are american and the car is registered to another american you should be fine with a signed letter including contact numbers from the owner. Also double check to make sure it is insured for the drivers.

Crossing the boarder relatively frequently I randomly get the question of “Who’s vehicle is this?” Seems the question will be even more frequent if the party is several friends travelling together. Lying is not a good idea as you are likely to get caught. Oh, and there are always follow up questions on ownership to double check on your answer.

Answer by old lady
You and your friend have to have valid passports. If you are not adults, you also have to have a notarized letter of permission from your parents or guardians. AND you will need a notarized letter of permission from your friend stating that you have his permission to use his car. Yes, there are serious fines and penalties, so it’s easier to comply. One of the possible penalties is confiscation of the car – which means you would have to buy another car for your friend because the immigration people would not give it back.

Answer by Louise
There’s nothing illegal about what you’re doing. But you should be sure to carry a signed letter of permission from the driver, as well as the car’s ownership papers and insurance card.

Canada has many different regulations and laws, for which the penalties would range from small fines to life imprisonment. What kinds of things are you worried about? Lying to customs and immigration officers could result in a fine of thousands of dollars, as well as being refused entry.