Not yet. New passport rules requiring passports for all land and sea travel between the United States and Mexico, Canada, the Caribbean, and Bermuda were originally scheduled to take effect in January of 2008. But a massive backlog of passport applications (caused by another requirement that all travelers flying to these destinations have a passport by the fall of 2007) prompted the federal government to delay implementation of the new rules until sometime between the summer of 2008 and June of 2009. The precise implementation date will be announced later, with at least 60 days notice given.

In the meantime, beginning January 31, 2008, Americans traveling by land or sea to Mexico, Canada, the Caribbean, or Bermuda will need to show a government-issued photo ID, such as a license, and a birth certificate or other proof of citizenship.

And if you're planning to travel by land or sea to any of these destinations later this year or in 2009, consider applying for a passport as soon as possible. The State Department reports that the current wait time is 4 to 6 weeks, but recommends allowing 10 weeks during busier times like the summer travel season (during peak application periods in 2007, waiting times reached 16 weeks). The State Department estimates that 23 million passport applications will be filed in 2008, and 30 million in 2009. So don't delay.

For more details, visit the State Department's website at http://travel.state.gov and click on the link "Passports for U.S. Citizens," or call the National Passport Information Center toll free at 1-877-487-2778.