What documents can I bring to prove my US citizenship when crossing the border from Canada to the United States without a passport?

Question

I am a resident of Canada and I recently renewed my US passport, but it has been three weeks since it was shipped and I still have not received it. I was planning to drive to the US this weekend, but I am not sure what I should do to prepare. The only two documents I have that could prove my citizenship are a social security card and a photocopy of my old passport. I do not have access to my birth certificate, but I do have a BC registered vehicle and drivers license. Should I cancel my plans?

Answer 1

I think that your photocopy of your old US passport should work, since the passport establishes your US citizenship and the authenticity of the information can be verified from databases. However, you should be prepared for them to temporarily detain you so they can verify your passport information.