Fast Lane at San Diego, Otay Mesa border crossings will soon open to cross-border workers

It was once a special border crossing lane for U.S. tourists traveling to Tijuana for medical care. The program later expanded to include those visiting Tijuana for business. Then, cross-border students. And now, cross-border workers are next.

Tijuana officials recently announced that Baja California residents who cross the U.S.-Mexico border for work can now enroll in the city’s Fast Lane program. The program allows participants to use special lanes for faster crossings at the San Ysidro and Otay Mesa vehicle ports of entry.

But joining the program comes at a cost.

Cross-border workers have two options. The first costs about $905 per month and allows two daily crossings through the program’s designated lanes at the San Ysidro or Otay Mesa ports of entry.

The second option is about $614 per month for one daily crossing, and only through the dedicated lane at the Otay Mesa Port of Entry. With either option, users can register two vehicles and up to three additional members for carpooling.

By comparison, U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s Trusted Traveler Programs, such as SENTRI and Global Entry, which allow for expedited crossings in different designated lanes, cost $120 for a five-year membership. Applicants must undergo a thorough vetting process to be approved.

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