SENTRI Pass Program

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

Background Information

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.

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 prescreened 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 and the El Paso (Stanton Street Bridge) crossing in Texas.

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 $122.25 per person. Here is a breakdown of the fees:

• Application fee $25.00 (or $50.00 total for husband, wife, children)
• Fingerprint fee $17.25
• System cost fee $80.00 (or $160.00 total for husband, wife, children)

Other fees:

• Lost Portpass card replacement fee $25.00
• Update new vehicle license plate $25.00
• Add vehicle $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)
  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
  
  
• El Paso Texas Ysletta Port of Entry
  797 X. Zaragoza Rd, Building A
  El Paso, TX 79907
  Phone: 915.872.3472
  Hours: Monday - Friday 8am - 4pm
  
  
• Brownsville
  3300 South Expressway 77/83
  Brownsville, TX 78520
  (956) 983-5668
  
  
• Laredo
  Lincoln/Juarez Bridge Adm Bldg 2
  Laredo, TX 78040
  (956) 523-7399
  
  
• Hidalgo
  6620 S. 33rd Street, Bldg J, Suite 20
  McAllen, TX 78503
  (956) 618-1680

How does the enrollment process work?

• Complete an online application to set up your GOES account and pay the $25 application fee.
• They will notify you by email if you are conditionally approved or rejected. If you are conditionally approved, then you will be able to schedule your interview appointment online.
• To be prepared for your 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 appointment and your fingerprints will be taken.

Vehicle Inspection Guidelines

• 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
Beginning January 1, 2008 the San Ysidro SENTRI will be open 24 hours a day

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.
• Read the "Vehicle Inspection Guidelines" above regarding what you will need to bring to your appointment .
• The fee for changing a vehicle is $42.00.

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

More Information

For further information about the SENTRI program, visit the US Customs and Border Protection website.