SENTRI pass Baja Border

SENTRI Pass Program Cross the border into the U.S. faster with a SENTRI Pass!

Many travellers experience frustrations at the often long waits at the border returning to the USA, and ask if there is a
better way or best time of day to do this, as the wait can be anywhere from minutes to several hours, and especially long
at the end of weekends, etc. Yes there is a better way and many frequent commuters choose to apply for the SENTRI
pass which shortens the wait to just a few minutes in all but extreme cases.

A press release has been issued that the new online enrollment system launched November 1, 2006. The system will be
able to process new and renewal applications. People currently enrolled in the SENTRI program will enjoy a five year
enrollment period, the previous enrollment period was two years. For the latest information and how to use the new
system, you may be interested in visiting FAQs about the SENTRI web based system on the CBP website. It is available in
English and Spanish.

SENTRI On-Line Application

The SENTRI program began as a pilot program in Otay Mesa in 1995 and in San Ysidro in 2000. Due to its success, the
programs are now permanent. Enrollees renew every five years. Below you will find information about the program, how
to enroll, how to change or add a vehicle, and how to renew your enrollment. Downloadable application form here

What is the SENTRI program?
The SENTRI (Secure Electronic Network for Travelers Rapid Inspection) program, launched by US Customs and Border
Protection, are dedicated commuter lanes where pre-screened applicants and vehicles are allowed to cross the border
Northbound into the US usually more quickly and efficiently. The enrollees have been rigorously background checked
and have been determined to be a low risk to the security of the US border. As one approaches the inspection area,
photos and information are given to the inspector about the driver, passengers and vehicle from the sticker
"transponder" on the vehicle and the information on the SENTRI Portpass card. Secondary inspection is randomly
determined by computer or if the inspector senses something suspicious.

How do the SENTRI lanes work?
As you approach the inspection station, your SENTRI Portpass card or cards will need to be read by the electronic
equipment. You will see a sign showing you where to point the cards. Hold the cards out the window toward the
equipment. Since your vehicle sticker "transponder" is permanently applied to your windshield, the equipment will also
read it and send the information to the officer. Once you approach the officer, hold out your SENTRI Portpass card or
card to him or her.

Who can apply for a SENTRI pass?
Anyone can apply, but not all are accepted.
How much faster is the SENTRI line compared to the other border crossing lanes?
In general, the SENTRI is an average of 20 - 30 seconds faster per vehicle inspected and therefore wait time, even during
rush hour is significantly reduced. Each SENTRI inspection is an average of 10 seconds. The SENTRI is especially
convenient during the morning and evening rush hour and on weekends.
What border crossings have a SENTRI line?
The system is currently being used at the Otay Mesa, San Ysidro, and Calexico border crossings in California
Where are the lanes located?
The SENTRI lanes in San Ysidro and Otay Mesa are located all the way to the far right and are sectioned off by concrete
dividers and have their own entrances.

How much does it cost to obtain a SENTRI pass?
The total fee is $129.00 per person. Here is a breakdown of the fees:
Application fee $25.00 (or $50.00 total for husband, wife, children)
Fingerprint fee $24.00
System cost fee $80.00 (or $160.00 total for husband, wife, children)

Other fees:

Lost Portpass card replacement fee $25.00
Replacement fee for transponder $42.00
Additional fees apply to enroll more than one vehicle into the program (up to 4 vehicles maximum). The fee applies
towards two years enrollment in the program.
How can I enroll?
Visit the Customs & Border Protection website to begin an online application.

Where are the SENTRI offices and what are their hours of operation?

Otay Mesa SENTRI office (serves Otay and San Ysidro crossings in greater San Diego area)
Otay Mesa Port of Entry, 2500 Paseo Internacional, San Diego, CA 92154, Phone: 619.690.7600 -
We do not recommend leaving a message. The office is overwhelmed and has not been calling people back. They accept
walk-ins for information and to obtain forms.
Phone Hours: Monday - Friday 7am - 8pm; Saturday and Sunday 7am - 3pm
Office Hours: Monday - Friday 7am - 8pm; Saturday and Sunday 7am - 3pm

Calexico Port of Entry East, 1699 East Carr Road, Building A , Calexico, CA 92231
Phone: 760.768.2488
Hours: Monday - Friday 8am - 3pm

Nogales
9 North Grand Avenue, Nogales, AZ 85621
(520) 375-5785

How does the enrollment process work?

You can register with the GOES (Global Online Enrollment System) through the U.S. Customs and Border Protection in
order to apply for the SENTRI online. In order to register, click the link to register in English. Complete the information
requested and select a password that is between 8 – 12 characters in length. Your password must begin with a number
and must also contain at least one of the following symbols, @!#$%^&*()_-=+[]{};:’”<>?. Please note that GOES will
assign your username, you may not select your own. Once you have successfully registered, select the option to enroll
in the SENTRI Program and complete the online application
Follow the online instructions from the SENTRI office. You will need to log in to the GOES system to learn if whether you
have been conditionally approved. Once you have been approved, you will need to schedule your interview appointment.
To be prepared for your initial appointment, make sure you have the originals and a copy of each document below for the
office to keep on file:
Evidence of Citizenship: Birth Certificate, US Passport, or Naturalization Certificate
Valid passport, visa or other entry document if applicable.
Evidence of lawful permanent residence in the US if applicable.
Valid driver's license issued by the state in which you reside.
Current vehicle registration and evidence of US automobile insurance; if the vehicle is not registered in the name of the
applicant, a notarized letter signed by the vehicle owner allowing use of the vehicle is required. Mexican registered
vehicles must bring proof of having US auto insurance.
Evidence of employment of financial support: recent tax return, recent pay stubs, or direct deposit statements. Persons
who are self employed must bring business license, current tax information and bank statements.
Evidence of residence: mortgage or rent payment receipts and utility bills.
Marriage certificate
Original only: "Carta de no antecedentes penales" for Mexican nationals residing in Mexico .
The application fee and fingerprint fee are required at the initial appointment and your fingerprints will be taken.
After conducting a background check, the SENTRI office will contact you to set the final appointment. During the final
appointment, your vehicle is inspected and the transponder is installed. The final fee of $80.00 is required at this time.
You will be required to attend a brief orientation program at this time. You will be presented with a complete set of
rules and regulations including items NOT PERMITTED in the SENTRI Lane . Be sure to review all rules carefully as
any violation will result in confiscation of your SENTRI Pass. No Warnings are given, no second chances.

Final Appointment Guidelines (Vehicle Inspection)

You must arrive to your appointment 30 minutes before your scheduled time
Both front and back license plates need to be attached to the vehicle
The windshield must be free of cracks
The windows on the driver's and front passenger's side must not be tinted
Bring valid vehicle registration and one copy
Bring valid insurance and one copy
Bring valid driver's license and one copy
Park in visitor's parking
Do not use your cell phone
No pets allowed
What forms of payment are accepted?
Accepted forms of payment are Visa, Mastercard, American Express, check or money order. Cash (US dollars) is
accepted if it is presented in the exact dollar amount. No coins are accepted. They do enforce a returned check fee and
all fees are non-refundable.
What are the hours of operation of the SENTRI lanes?
San Ysidro: Daily 4am - midnight including holidays
Otay Mesa: Daily 5am - 8pm including holidays

What if I already have a SENTRI pass and I need to change a vehicle?
Visit the SENTRI office to obtain a "Change of Vehicle" application. Bring a copy of the new vehicle's registration and
insurance cards to submit on the spot.
The SENTRI office will call you within two weeks to schedule an appointment for the vehicle inspection once your
application has been approved.
Once your application is approved, you will be called to schedule your appointment. As of August 2006 it is taking about
two weeks more for your appointment date.
Read the "Final Appointment Guidelines" above regarding what you will need to bring to your appointment .
The fee for changing a vehicle is $42.00.
How may I add passengers to my vehicle?
Passengers no longer have to be added to a vehicle. As long as the vehicle has the new SENTRI transponder (the thin
sticker) and the passengers cards are updated with a bar code sticker, they may cross in any vehicle.

How do I renew my SENTRI pass?
If you need to renew, visit the SENTRI online enrollment system to submit an application.
You may need to present the following at your renewal appointment:
Evidence of Citizenship: Birth Certificate, US Passport, or Naturalization Certificate
Valid passport, visa or other entry document if applicable.
Evidence of lawful permanent residence in the US if applicable.
Valid driver's license issued by the state in which you reside.
Current vehicle registration and evidence of US automobile insurance; if the vehicle is not registered in the name of the
applicant, a notarized letter signed by the vehicle owner allowing use of the vehicle is required. Mexican registered
vehicles must bring proof of having US auto insurance.
Evidence of employment of financial support: recent tax return, recent pay stubs, or direct deposit statements. Persons
who are self employed must bring business license, current tax information and bank statements.
Evidence of residence: mortgage or rent payment receipts and utility bills.
Marriage certificate
Original only: "Carta de no antecedentes penales" for Mexican nationals residing in Mexico
Your photo will be taken again and a new SENTRI card issued which will be valid for five years.
Renewal fees:
Application fee: $25.00
System cost fee: $80.00
Fingerprint fee: $24.00 (if necessary)
Secondary vehicle fee: $42.00 each vehicle