Do I Need a Passport for Los Algodones?
Yes. Mexico asks for a passport book or card by land, plus an FMM. To return at Andrade, you need a WHTI document. The port closes at 10 p.m. PT.
Yes. To visit Los Algodones for dental work, you need a passport book or passport card, and you need a WHTI-compliant document to re-enter at Andrade. The State Department says all land travelers must apply for an FMM, including those staying within about 12 miles of the border, so don't assume a short dental trip is exempt.
Documents for the Andrade crossing
- Going in: passport book or card, plus the FMM, per the State Department.
- Coming back: U.S. passport, passport card, Enhanced Driver's License or a NEXUS, SENTRI or FAST card, per CBP.
- Children under 16: a birth certificate or other proof of citizenship for U.S. re-entry, per CBP.
- Green card holders: a valid Permanent Resident Card for re-entry.
An ordinary driver's license is not on that list, so don't count on it, least of all when your mouth hurts from surgery.
Timing your return
The Andrade port of entry is on the California side and open 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. Pacific, seven days a week. It isn't open overnight. If your dental appointment runs late, you could be stuck on the Mexican side. CBP's Border Wait Times page shows the current line. Build in a margin.
Getting there
CBP directs travelers from Yuma, Arizona, via I-8 and State Route 186. It's a short drive, but if you are sedated you shouldn't be the one driving back. See can you drive home after dental surgery in Los Algodones?
What to bring
- Your treatment plan and written price.
- A list of medications and allergies.
- Payment. Ask the clinic what it accepts before you go.
- Prescription paperwork for anything you carry back. See bringing medication back from Mexico.
- A second adult, if you may be sedated. They need the same documents you do, and they should keep them handy for the officer.
Safety
Los Algodones is in Baja California, which the State Department rates Level 3, "Reconsider travel"; Mexico overall is Level 2. Our Mexico dental safety guide covers what that means for a day trip. Clinic prices and a comparison are on dentistry in Mexico.
Clinics listed on xcuro in Mexico
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Frequently asked questions
Can I go to Los Algodones without a passport?
You should not plan to. Mexico asks for a passport book or card, and you need an accepted document to get back into the U.S.
Is a passport card enough for Los Algodones?
Yes for this land crossing, if you also have an FMM. A card won't work for flights, so it is limiting if your plans change.
What time does the Los Algodones border close?
CBP lists the Andrade port as open 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. Pacific, every day. Check before you go, because hours can change.
Sources
- Mexico Travel Advisory, issued May 29, 2026 (archived copy) — U.S. Department of State
- Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative — U.S. Customs and Border Protection
- Andrade, California port of entry — U.S. Customs and Border Protection
- Border Wait Times — U.S. Customs and Border Protection