By Mark Scott
Buffalo, NY – The federal government has formally approved the state's "enhanced" driver's license. It will allow travelers to enter the United States without a passport when strict border crossing requirement take effect a year from now.
State Motor Vehicles Commissioner David Swarts says there will be an added charge for the enhanced licenses.
"The cost of the enhanced drivers license will be $30 above the cost of the current drivers license, bringing the total to $80," Swarts said. "It's still significantly cheaper than a US passport."
Swarts says he expects the new enhanced licenses will be available late this summer. He says drivers will still be able to obtain a standard license if they have no need for the enhanced option.