JANUARY 29, 2009

Visitors to the 2009 Michigan International Auto Show in Grand Rapids can learn more about Michigan's upcoming enhanced driver's license, which eases travel back into the United States, and other services offered at Secretary of State offices, Secretary of State Terri Lynn Land announced today.

The Secretary of State's Office will have a booth in DeVos Place across from the General Motors display on the main show floor. The auto show is open to the public Thursday, Feb. 5 - Sunday, Feb. 8. The booth features the enhanced driver's license, which goes on sale in the spring.

"The license is a great option for travelers that allows them re-entry to the United States and costs less than a passport," Land said. "We need the enhanced driver's license because Michigan's economy benefits from billions of dollars of international trade, particularly in the auto industry. I encourage all auto show visitors to stop by our booth to learn more."

Representatives will be available to answer questions about department services. The booth also features a colorful mock-up of a motorist waving an enhanced license, which

serves as a playful backdrop against which children of all ages can have their pictures taken. In addition, Vince and Larry -- everybody's favorite crash test dummies -- will visit during the weekend to greet visitors.

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 -- will need to produce a passport or an approved secure document to enter the country by land or sea beginning June 1.

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 will be voluntary and available only to Michigan residents who also are U.S. citizens. They will cost $45. Michigan will continue offering 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.