FEBRUARY 18, 2010

Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate convenient option

Visitors to the 2010 Outdoorama show in Novi can learn more about Michigan's enhanced driver's license, which eases travel back into the United States, and other Secretary of State services, Secretary of State Terri Lynn Land announced today.

"Michigan's outdoor enthusiasts should have their adventure at camp and not at the border," Land said. "With more stringent border-crossing rules that began last year, they should consider the enhanced driver's license. It offers travelers a convenient, less expensive option that allows re-entry into the United States."

Enhanced licenses have proved popular with Michigan residents. More than 130,000 have been issued since they were first offered in April 2009.

The show is open to the public Thursday, Feb. 25 -- Sunday, Feb. 28. The Secretary of State booth features information about the enhanced driver's license as well as representatives available to answer questions about other department services.

Michigan's enhanced driver's license was proposed by Land as a way for travelers to speed their return from Canada, Mexico or the Caribbean. Under the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative, all travelers -- including U.S. citizens -- must produce a passport or an

approved secure document such as the enhanced driver's license to enter the country by land or sea. The law affects people who travel between Michigan and Canada in pleasure boats as well.

Land's plan to offer enhanced driver's licenses and state-issued ID cards was approved in 2008 by the Michigan Legislature and the governor, as well as the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. The cards are voluntary and are available only to Michigan residents who are U.S. citizens. The enhanced license costs $45. The enhanced ID is $30. Interested residents can apply at any branch office. Michigan continues to offer its standard driver's license as well.

Visit the department Web site at www.Michigan.gov/sos for more information about Secretary of State programs and services.

Related Links
> Michigan Enhanced Driver's License
> Michigan Enhanced State ID Card