With the Gordie Howe International Bridge between Windsor and Detroit set to open in the coming days, here are some crucial questions you may need the answers to.

When can we start driving across the bridge? 

Monday, July 27, “as early as 12 p.m.,” the bridge authority said on Friday.

How much does it cost to cross the bridge? 

There are regular rates and Breakaway rates for travelers who set up Breakaway accounts.

• Personal vehicle:  $8.00 (Breakaway rate: $6).
• Personal vehicle with trailer:  $8.00 (Breakaway rate: $6).
• Large commercial and passenger vehicles: $12 per axle (Breakaway rate: $9.60 per axle).
• Hazardous and oversized vehicles: $12 per axle (Breakaway rate: $9.60 per axle).
• Walk or cycle: free.

When can we start walking and cycling across the bridge?

Aug. 5. At 8 a.m.

Will I be able to walk part of the way across the bridge then turn around and come back without entering the U.S.? 

Yes. 

Do I need to bring my travel documents — i.e.: a passport — if I’m not walking all the way to the U.S.?

Yes. Because you will pass the Canadian port of entry to get onto the bridge and you will need to cross back through the Canadian port of entry on your return. 

Is there a place on the bridge to turn my car around if I don’t want to go all the way to the U.S. border?

No.

What travel documents do I need to enter the U.S.?

Canadian citizens traveling to the U.S. by land need one of the documents listed below: 

• Canadian passport.
• Enhanced driver’s license/enhanced identification card.
• NEXUS, FAST/EXPRES.
• SENTRI enrollment cards.

Canadian citizens 15 years old and younger can present an original or copy of his or her birth certificate or a Canadian citizenship card. 

What if I arrive at the U.S. border without travel documents?

You will be denied entry into the United States.

Are there additional consequences for showing up at the U.S. border without travel documents?

There can be, but the U.S. Customs and Border Protection addresses these situations on a case-by-case basis. 

What travel documents do I need in order to return to Canada if I’m a Canadian citizen?

A valid Canadian passport or other documents that prove your identity and citizenship.  You can find the full list of acceptable documents by clicking here. 

Can I ride e-bikes on the path?

E-bikes are not formally permitted on the bridge’s multi-use path. 

However, Windsor authorities are reviewing a bylaw to allow pedal assisted bikes on the bridge.

What can’t I bring on the bridge travelling between countries? 

• You are encouraged not to travel with firearms. Most handguns are prohibited from being imported into Canada. If you choose to do so, check the Canadian Border website. 
• Do not bring cannabis across the border. Crossing with cannabis in any form and in any amount, including products or oils containing tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) or cannabidiol (CBD), without a permit or exemption authorized by Health Canada is a criminal offence, despite the legalization of cannabis in Canada. A medical prescription from a doctor does not count as Health Canada authorization.
• Review the restricted and prohibited goods to avoid the possibility of penalties, including fines, seizure or prosecution. 
• For those wishing to bring fireworks, consult Importing, exporting and transporting fireworks to ensure that the ones you are bringing in are authorized.