The federal government has agreed to allow most New York residents to use a new, more secure driver license to cross the border.
New York Gov. David Paterson announced the agreement between the state and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. A New York Enhanced Driver License has been added to the list of approved alternatives to passports for entry to the United States from Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean and Bermuda under Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative.
The new Enhanced Driver Licenses are anticipated to be available by summer’s end, well in advance of the WHTI, which will go into effect June 1, 2009.
"The development of this license will help to ease long lines at our New York-Canada border crossings, allowing commerce to flow more freely and securely in and out of the state," Paterson said.
"It represents a major step forward that will help the upstate economy and offer a convenience for all New Yorkers who travel in North America."
New York residents who are U.S. citizens and want an Enhanced Driver License must go to a New York Department of Motor Vehicles office and submit proof of identity and citizenship. The new license is expected to cost $80 — $30 more than a regular driver license — and be valid for eight years.
Deputy Clinton County Clerk and Motor Vehicle Supervisor Glenn Olds said those with a current license can upgrade to an Enhanced Driver License for $45. The cost of an adult passport is about $100.
The new license will have a number of security features to prevent improper use. It will look much like the present driver license but will clearly indicate it is an Enhanced Driver License.
ALTERNATIVE LAUDED
Plattsburgh-North Country Chamber of Commerce President Garry Douglas thanked Paterson and the state’s representatives in Washington, especially Rep. John McHugh (R-Pierrepont Manor) and Sen. Charles Schumer (D-NY), for securing the agreement.
"The delay of WHTI by Congress until June of 2009 was meant to give everyone sufficient time to do exactly what is now happening — the development and implementation of a number of alternatives for acceptable border ID," Douglas said.
"New York state is now stepping forward as one of the leaders in making EDLs available as an option."
Douglas said it is important that Quebec and Ontario finalize similar agreements this year. Douglas said Quebec representatives have indicated plans to have such licenses available to provincial residents by December.
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