Feds OK 'enhanced' NY driver's licenses for border crossings

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May 27, 2008

Anonymous The Press Republican Tue May 27, 2008, 01:05 PM EDT

ALBANY, N.Y. (AP) — New York Gov. David Paterson says the federal government has formally approved the state's "enhanced" driver's license, which can be used to cross the United States border without a passport.

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The optional enhanced driver's license will be available for use next summer when passports or approved driver's licenses will be required for border crossings, including entry into Canada.

New Yorkers will have to provide proof of citizenship to apply for the enhanced license at a Department of Motor Vehicles office.

The license was a fallback for former Gov. Eliot Spitzer, who was stopped last year in his bid to make it easier for illegal immigrants to get driver's licenses.

The new, 8-year licenses will add $30 to the $50 cost of reissuing a license.