SENTRI Pass -
Drivers Save Hours Crossing the Border Back into the US

If you hate waiting in traffic to cross back into the US from Mexico, you should seriously consider acquiring a SENTRI Pass. During busy border crossing times, the SENTRI Pass can literally turn a 2 hour wait into a 10 minute wait. For just over $100 per year, a SENTRI Pass could be the best money you ever spent.

Here is a government link that explains the SENTRI Pass system: http://www.cbp.gov/xp/cgov/travel/trusted_traveler/sentri/sentri.xml

Who is eligible for a SENTRI Pass?
Anyone can apply. There are no restrictions on how many times you cross the border.
However, the SENTRI Pass system is designed for 'low risk' people. People with any penalties, violations, convictions, or pending law enforcement investigations will not be considered for the SENTRI Pass program.

How does it work?
There are special SENTRI Pass only lanes at many of the busy border crossing points (see list below). It is similar to a carpool lane or FastTrack toll booth lane. SENTRI Pass holders can use these lanes which are significantly less populated. When you approach the border, you present your electronic SENTRI Pass card, and it is scanned by a machine. SENTRI Pass holders also have a transponder adhered to the vehicle's windshield which also communicates with the border patrol computer system. This quick scanning system allows SENTRI Pass holders to pass through the border at a rate of about 10 seconds per vehicle.

How do you apply?
The easiest way to apply for the SENTRI Pass is through the internet. https://goes-app.cbp.dhs.gov/
You can also visit the SENTRI Pass Enrollment Centers in person or call them at the following locations:

San Ysidro (the Tijuana border crossing) has SENTRI Pass lanes,
but the enrollment office is located at Otay Mesa

Otay Mesa
2500 Paseo Internacional
Otay Mesa, CA 92154
(619) 690-7600

El Paso
797 S. Zaragoza Road, Building A
El Paso, TX 79907
(915) 872-3472

Brownsville
3300 South Expressway 77/83
Brownsville, TX 78520
(956) 983-5668

Hidalgo
6620 S. 33rd Street, Bldg J, Suite 20
McAllen, TX 78503
(956) 618-1680

Calexico
1699 East Carr Road
Calexico, CA 92231
(760) 768-2488

Nogales
9 North Grand Avenue
Nogales, AZ 85621
(520) 375-5801

Laredo
Lincoln/Juarez Bridge Adm Bldg 2
Laredo, TX 78040
(956) 523-7379