Visa/esta

[mitzycat11]

Hi I have a 3 weeks holiday booked in June to USA but have recently got caught for dangerous driving. My magistrates hearing is end of March and after that I would not have time probably to get a Visa so could I just apply and get my Esta now?

[calmck]

Not sure what the rules are. Try looking on. esta.cbp.dhs.gov. This is the official US web site to apply for an esta document depending on what country you live in

[Baldric]

Try this one, the one given @ 13:39 is not a secure site.

https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov/esta/

[TonyV]

Had a quick look at esta web site, nothing asking about upcoming court cases that l could see. As it's a driving offence rather than criminal, foresee a problem. Getting car insurance in States may be different though if you are planning to hire. Not sure if you have to hand your licence into court if you plead or are found guilty. Others with better working knowledge than me will know.

[TonyV]

^^^^
Should read "can't see a problem"

[TonyV]

Thought abound, why do you need anymore documentation other than your passport?

[calmck]

You cannot get into U.S.A without a visa or esta

[TonyV]

Ok calmck, I stand corrected you're right, but you new that. Wasn't aware of esta which came into force on 12/1/2009 in the name of homeland security. You live and learn.

[calmck]

No problems. Think esta is good for two or three years and did cost £15. You do not need a visa as well but US immigration I think can not allow you entrance if they deem you unsuitable on arrival. You could try to contact US embassy for advice re driving misdemeanor

[New Judge]

"As it's a driving offence rather than criminal,..."

Driving offences are criminal, Tony. Many are "non-recordable" but Dangerous Driving is not among them. It carries a maximum two year prison sentence, a mandatory ban of at least twelve months and an extended re-test must be taken when the ban is over.

The OP's licence will have to be surrendered if he is convicted and even if it was not I doubt he would be able to hire a car in the USA (or indeed anywhere else) with a UK ban for DD still in force (though he has not said he intends to do so).

[TonyV]

NJ as I said in my reply at 13.57, someone more knowledgeable than myself would be able to give more definitive advise.

[calmck]

Just remembered when we flew to US last Xmas one member of our party forgot to apply for an esta. He did it at the airport that morning. As long as you have an esta before you check in you will be allowed to board.