The Commercial Driver Registration Program

CDRP Driver Responsibilities

As an approved CDRP participant, you must:

• Comply with the Customs Act and regulations, the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act and regulations, as well as the other laws administered by the CBSA or Citizenship and Immigration Canada;
• Not transfer your registration card or your traveller declaration cards to anyone else;
• Carry personal identification, and any required immigration documents.
  Note: Your photo registration card does not replace these pieces of identification.

When you are using the CSA clearance process for a CSA approved carrier, you must present your photo registration card to the CBSA officer.

You may only have other registered drivers in your vehicle who have their own photo registration cards with them.

• If you have non-registered passengers with you, the customs and immigration clearance process will take more time at the border. They may result in delays and affect the expedited processing time you would usually expect with CSA clearance.

Restrictions on personal goods that can be imported by a registered driver

All drivers can import goods for their own personal use. Residents of the United States must return to the United States with all goods not consumed while in Canada.

All drivers must adhere to the following restrictions:

• Declare all goods that are imported into Canada for personal use, including all goods bought or received outside of Canada, as well as gifts, prizes, or awards.
  • Remember to include goods still in your possession that you bought at Canadian or foreign duty-free shops.
• Do not import controlled, restricted, or prohibited animals, plants, or goods.
  • For more information refer to the CBSA publications I Declare and Information for Visitors to Canada and Seasonal Residents.
  • Find out about personal limits for imported goods as well as restrictions on importing alcohol and tobacco products into Canada
• Do not import controlled, restricted, or prohibited weapons, including firearms, mace, pepper spray, stun guns, switchblades, and butterfly knives.
  • For more information, consult the CBSA publication Importing a Firearm or Weapon into Canada.
    Note: If you try to import firearms or weapons without declaring them, the CBSA will seize them and you may face criminal charges.

Are there penalties for non-compliance?

Your acceptance in the CDRP is a privilege. The CBSA will periodically review your application and occasionally examine your vehicle to ensure you are complying with CDRP requirements, as well as customs and immigration legislation. The CBSA will strictly enforce the law.

Penalties for non-compliance may include the following:

• Revocation of membership privileges for CDRP participants who fail to comply with program requirements and procedures; and
• Monetary penalties against CSA-approved carriers who use a non-registered driver for CSA clearance.

Need more information?

• Border Information Services
• CBSA Information for Travellers