Border Fast Pass for Tourists Crossing into the U.S. at San Ysidro
Save Time Crossing Back into the U.S.!
A frequent question we receive from readers is if the Fast Pass still exists (and how to get one). Yes it does and most of the time it works great! However if you have been following the Fast Pass for awhile, you may know that some time ago restaurants were banned from offering it. We have been hoping this would change in time, but unfortunately it hasn't. However there are still a good number of hotels who offer it (with guidelines). The entrance to the Fast Pass Lane is still in the same place it has been.
If you haven't heard of the Fast Pass, below we offer all the information we know about it and list all the establishments we are aware of who offer it. If you know of any establishment that we do not have listed, please let us know. Because of helpful readers, we have been able to keep this list as updated as possible. For years now there has been no official list of establishments from the authorities of the Fast Pass. Updates are much appreciated. Happy summer travels.
Fast Pass Tips:
- Be sure to double check that the hotel or establishment listed below offers the Fast Pass.
- If an establishment offers the pass, it is still subject to availability.
- Need help finding the entrance to the Fast Pass Lane? See our photo directions to find the Fast Pass Lane
- Google Map to the Fast Pass Lane from the Río Zone or along the road that borders the U.S. - Avenida Internacional.
- Sometimes there are cones that block the Fast Pass entrance as you approach the booth. If you pull off near the cones the officers will come out of the booth to take your ticket and graciously let you through.
What is the Fast Pass Lane?
The Fast Pass Lane, offcially called
FastLane, is a designated lane for tourists (vacationers, business people and medical tourism) who have visited certain establishments in Baja. The Fast Pass Lane is open at the Tijuana/San Ysidro border crossing. It differs from the
SENTRI Lane. A Fast Pass is a single-use pass that gives you access to a special lane designated for tourists.
This lane does not have any affiliation with U.S. authorities and you will still need to present the necessary documentation to U.S. border officials. The Fast Pass Lane is also known as the Medical Lane and many medical offices in Tijuana and beyond offer it. The Fast Pass program is run by the Ayuntamiento de Tijuana.
Generally, who is eligible for a Fast Pass?
- Tourists who patronize certain hotels and medical offices in the Fast Pass program
- The vehicle must have U.S., Canadian, etc. license plates (Mexican plated vehicles are not eligible)
- Motorcycles and vehicles with trailers are not eligible
How much time can I save by using the Fast Pass Lane?
This lane will significantly reduce your wait time to get back into the U.S. Reports say the wait on average is 30 minutes or so. 15 minute waits or less are not unusual. Of course it depends upon the time of day and the day you travel. Sometimes the Fast Pass Lane is faster than the SENTRI.
How do I get a Fast Pass?
Certain merchants in the city of Rosarito, Ensenada and Tijuana carry the Fast Pass. See the list of establishments below.
What are the hours of operation of the Fast Pass Lane?
The lane is open daily from 8am to 10pm.
What border crossings have a Fast Pass Lane?
Only the San Ysidro border crossing has a Fast Pass Lane at this time.
Where is the Fast Pass Lane located?
See our
photo directions on how to get to the Fast Pass Lane.
How much does it cost to get a Fast Pass?
The pass is generally free once you have met the hotel's requirements. However we have heard some establishments do charge for the Fast Pass.
Is the Fast Pass Lane like the SENTRI Lane?
It is similar to the
SENTRI in that you may cross the border faster, however there is no background check and the pass is only good for one crossing.
List of establishments who offer the Fast Pass
Check with the establishment for specific requirements and to be sure they still offer the Fast Pass. Some will offer it with a package or service and others for visiting their spa, restaurants, etc. with a minimum purchase. Some do not require a minimum purchase. The requirements vary greatly.
Establishments in Rosarito:
Establishments in Ensenada:
Establishments in Tijuana:
Know of a hotel or medical office that offers the Fast Pass?
Let us know! Unfortunately, now that the pass is under the control of the Ayuntamiento de Tijuana, there is not an official list of establishments. Therefore we try our best to find out where they are being offered. Please email us - service(at)bajabound.com - if you have any information. It would be greatly appreciated!
Are there any other options to cross the border faster besides the Fast Pass or SENTRI?
Yes. In San Ysidro and Otay Mesa are the
Ready Lanes. These lanes require you to have one of the several types of RFID enabled cards like a passport card, SENTRI card, enhanced drivers license, etc. Passports with chips do not always work in this lane however.
Read more about the Ready Lanes...
Read about 3 Ways To Cross Back to the U.S. Faster!
Are you looking to offer the Fast Pass to your guests?
If you are a business located in Tijuana, Rosarito, or Ensenada, the
Ayuntamiento de Tijuana may be able to offer the Fast Pass to your hotel or medical office. Contact their offices at (664) 973-7036 Monday through Friday 9am to 2pm. Let us know your business offers the Fast Pass and we will add you to our list.
Let us know how the Fast Pass worked for you!
This page will be updated as the program is further developed. Have you used the lane already? Please let us know your experience by emailing us at service(at)bajabound.com. Thank you for your comments.
