Hey, I know I can call Canada and ask this, but I was here on the board and thought I would ask and see if I should even bother with a phone call. I have heard that if a person has ever had a DUI no matter how long ago, they may not enter Canada, is this a wives tale or is there truth to it.....anyone know? I am hoping to go Quetico next year and have one 6 years ago.

The answer is yes and no. A DUI is considered a felony in Canada and they may refuse you entry. With that you can sometimes buy a waiver that allows you to enter, but you need to work with Canadian customs for that. Sometimes they allow it if it is an older offense. If you enter at a border crossing they may let is slide compared to if you apply for a RABC entry permit.

I have heard so many different stories based on where and how you enter, buying your entry, being refused etc. that I think you will need to call. I would call and find out how you can gain access. The trip to Quetico is worth the effort.

It's true.

Thanx guys
This message board ROCKS!!!!!
I love it here

I have heard the yes and no thing as well. Apparently if the offense is 7 or so years old, there is a more formal process for someone to follow, but if it is less than 7 years, there is not really a structure path to gain entry. I have heard people paying random amounts at the border in order to buy their way in for a trip, but that would be a heck of thing to plan on.

On the other hand you can drive thru at any highway border crossing - International Falls, Detroit or a thousand others with a quick smile, a couple of questions and you're in.

Someone explain all of this to me... obviously people in canoes heading into the woods are more of a threat?

Those sneaky canoers.......

Noticed your question. We just got back from Quitico a few weeks ago. We actually flew to customs and they simply wanted to see two forms of I.D. They then ask you a bunch of questions like do you have any guns, mace, bait, what is the intent of your travel, do you have any alcohol or tobacco, any Rx drugs or other drugs of any kind. They always want to know if all the people in the party are related or what.
Last year we drove into Canada straight North of Fargo N.D. Same questions and stuff.
What I can tell you is this. They would have absolutely NO WAY of knowing you have had a DUI unless you would forward that info. They do NOT run your MVR which is what they would need to do to find out. I would say that you are absolutely safe. Never have I been asked or seen anyone asked about DUI info. Don't think you will have any questions or problems regarding the dui. They don't ask, you don't tell. Simple as that.