CBX Introduces Biometric Technology for Faster, Smarter Border Crossings
Cross Border Xpress (CBX) is revolutionizing the way travelers cross the U.S.–Mexico border. As of June 2025, CBX has become the first and only land border crossing in the U.S. to implement the Enhanced Passenger Processing (EPP) biometric facial recognition technology, joining just 12 other ports of entry in North America using this advanced system. CBX now offers an even faster, smarter way to return from Mexico, helping thousands of U.S. travelers cross daily from the Tijuana International Airport (TIJ) to San Diego more efficiently than ever.
What’s New: Biometric Screening at CBX
U.S. citizens flying into the Tijuana International Airport and crossing into the U.S. through CBX can now scan their U.S. passport booklet or passport card at the e-gates inside the Tijuana International Airport before reaching the pedestrian bridge. By the time they reach the Customs and Border Protection (CBP) checkpoint on the U.S. side, officers already have their biometric and citizenship information ready for review.
“Our customers will benefit from the new process by getting an even easier and faster travel experience,” said Jorge Goytortua, CEO of CBX.
Currently, the average CBX crossing time is just 18 minutes. With Enhanced Passenger Processing in place, that time is expected to drop by 10 to 20%, making it one of the fastest ways to enter the U.S. from Mexico.
How the Biometric Process Works
- • The U.S. passengers scan their passport at the E-gates on the Tijuana access to CBX.
- • The information is sent to CBP.
- • At the CBX inspection point, a CBP tablet captures a live photo of the traveler.
- • That photo is compared to the traveler’s passport or visa image on file.
- • The process is over 97% accurate and takes only seconds.
- • A CBP officer is always present to supervise, assist, or conduct additional interviews if needed.
This system uses the same secure technology already used at major U.S. airports and is designed to enhance border security while improving efficiency and the traveler experience.
A Smarter Way to Travel Between the U.S. and Mexico
This new facial recognition system is just one of many reasons why CBX remains the top choice for U.S.–Mexico travel. Passengers who use CBX avoid long wait times at land crossings like San Ysidro or Otay Mesa and gain direct access to over 40 destinations in Mexico, U.S., and Asia through the Tijuana International Airport.
Travelers using CBX often save 30% to 50% on airfare compared to flying out of U.S. airports. Combined with a faster and more secure crossing process, CBX continues to set the standard for modern cross-border travel.