I suggest that anyone who is considering this trip and who does not have a passport, passport card*, an enhanced state driver's license* or a trusted traveler card (NEXUS, SENTRI or FAST) should start the process of getting one of those documents now. Validity of existing documents should cover the return from Canada. Processing new passports and renewals can take a little while, particularly with the volume caused by the approaching peak travel period.
Info on applying for a new passport or a renewal can be found HERE.
One more caution. Canada is VERY serious about prohibiting entry by anyone with a criminal record blemish. Offenses such as DUI 20 years ago and even ancient history such as an arrest for a Vietnam war protest in the 1960's can prevent entry into Canada. Modern border control systems know all. By and large, entry into Canada is not a big deal, but there are many stories of surprise turn-backs due to some long forgotten incident.
*Passport card or enhanced drivers license can be used instead of a full passport or trusted traveler card for land crossings between the Canada and the USA. Air requires a passport or trusted traveler card. Enhanced driver's licenses are only offered by Michigan, Minnesota, New York, Vermont and Washington and are require extra processing and an additional fee over and above the regular license. Regular driver's licenses and birth certificates are not accepted for USA-Canada border
'REAL ID' enhanced drivers licencses are now issued by most states. You will likely have to gather several documents and appear in person to get one as the old DMV records don't suffice. Your DMV should have a page explaining the requirments.
Updated page at DHS: https://www.dhs.gov/real-id
Ross
Real ID and Enhanced driver's licenses are not the same. Real ID licenses, unless also "enhanced," are not and will not be accepted for border crossings.
A Real ID license meets DHS identity conformation and security feature requirements for federal facility access, specifically TSA clearance at airports. While a Real ID license confirms identity, it is not a confirmation of citizenship as necessary for border crossing. Obtaining an enhanced driver's license requires similar documentation as a passport. It is a confirmation of citizenship and is accepted in lieu of a passport or passport card for land or sea border crossing to and from the USA and Canada, Mexico and some other North American countries. Enhanced driver's licenses will be Real ID compliant, but almost all Real ID licenses will not be "enhanced" for CBP use.
While most states will be issuing Real ID licenses by the 10/1/2020 deadline, only Michigan, Minnesota, New York, Vermont and Washington issue enhanced driver's licenses valid for border crossing.