JUNE 16, 2009

Editor's Note:  As of October 19, 2009, all Secretary of State offices offer enhanced driver's licenses and personal ID cards.

Secretary of State Terri Lynn Land announced today that the fast-selling enhanced driver's license and state ID card now is available at dozens more branch offices across Michigan.

Customers now can choose from 28 more offices statewide when applying for an enhanced driver's license (EDL), with another 24 EDL offices to be added by next week. Initially, 16 offices offered the enhanced license as Land's office gauged customer interest.

Customers are encouraged to check the Branch Office Locator at www.Michigan.gov/sos to find the most up-to-date listing of offices that offer enhanced licenses.

"The customer response to the enhanced license has been fantastic," Land said. "People definitely see the convenience that the enhanced license offers them as they return from Canada from a business trip, a vacation or just a fun day trip. That's why I'm proud to increase the number of offices that accept applications."

Enhanced licenses and ID cards let people re-enter the United States from Canada, Mexico and the Caribbean at land or sea crossings in compliance with federal regulations that took effect June 1.

More than 25,000 Michigan residents have applied since April. Customers receive their new enhanced license or ID in the mail within two to three weeks.

Applicants must be a U.S. citizen and a Michigan resident. They also must have a driving record that does not prevent them from legally operating a motor vehicle.

The Secretary of State's Office offers the enhanced driver's license and ID as an alternative to the standard license and ID. To apply, a person must present documentation of:

• A valid Social Security number, such as a Social Security card
• U.S. citizenship, such as an original or certified birth certificate
• Identity, such as a Michigan license or state ID card
• Residency, such as a Michigan license or state ID card

An applicant's full name and date of birth should match on identity and citizenship documents. If an applicant's legal name is different from what is shown on his or her citizenship document, he or she must present proof of the name change, such as an original marriage license, divorce decree or court order.

The enhanced license costs $45 and the ID card is available for $30. Residents who are blind, or age 65 or older pay a reduced fee of $20 for the ID card.

For more information on the enhanced driver's license, visit www.Michigan.gov/sos.