The FAST card — what it is and how to get one
Lesson 2 of 4 in Border Crossing, Customs & FAST Card · 22 minutes
FAST is the most valuable trade-program for cross-border truckers. It's a pre-clearance card that lets you use dedicated express lanes at the border. This lesson covers eligibility, the application, the interview, and what disqualifies you.
What you'll learn
- Understand FAST eligibility and the application process
- Prepare for the FAST interview
- Know what disqualifies you from FAST
- Use the FAST lane correctly at the border
From the lesson
The FAST card (Free and Secure Trade) is a joint US-Canada program for low-risk commercial drivers. With a FAST card, you use a separate dedicated lane at the border, clear faster (often under 5 minutes vs 30-60 minutes), and avoid most secondary inspections. For a driver doing 3-5 US trips per week, FAST saves dozens of hours per month and significantly increases earnings. Cost: $50 USD for 5 years. Time to get: 2-4 months from application to card in hand.
1. What FAST gives you
Dedicated lanes. At major US-Canada border crossings (Peace Bridge / Buffalo, Ambassador Bridge / Detroit-Windsor, Pacific Highway / Blaine-Surrey, etc.), FAST has its own express lanes. Far shorter waits.
Faster…