The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the state of Michigan have been working together to enhance features of that state’s driver’s license as a potential alternative document for crossing U.S. land and sea borders. Earlier this week, DHS and Michigan reached an agreement to work together to create an enhanced driver’s license that will include information about the holder’s identity and citizenship that would be compliant with regulations of the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative.

"With this agreement, Michigan’s leadership has shown both its innovative spirit and its commitment to national security,” said Stewart Baker, Assistant Secretary for Policy, DHS. “The state enhanced driver’s license will bolster security through advanced technology, and at the same time it will make travel faster and easier."

As part of this agreement, Michigan will develop and enhanced driver’s license that volunteer residents who apply and qualify for the document can use to verify identity when crossing U.S. land and sea borders. There will be an additional fee for this enhanced license, which will include additional security features that are seen on passports and passport cards. Interested applicants must present proof of their citizenship, identity and residence to receive the enhanced license.