Arizona to Offer Enhanced Driver’s Licenses for Convenient Border Travel
PHOENIX, AZ – Arizona residents will soon have the option to apply for an enhanced driver’s license that will allow for easier travel between the United States and Mexico. The Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) announced yesterday that they will begin offering the enhanced licenses starting next month.
The enhanced driver’s licenses will be compliant with the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI), which requires U.S. citizens to present a valid passport, passport card, or other approved document when entering the United States from Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda. The new licenses will feature a radio-frequency identification (RFID) chip that will allow for expedited processing at border crossings.
“We’re excited to offer this convenient option for Arizona residents who frequently travel between the U.S. and Mexico,” said ADOT Director John Halikowski. “The enhanced driver’s licenses will streamline the border crossing process and make travel more efficient for our residents.”
In order to qualify for an enhanced driver’s license, applicants must be U.S. citizens, Arizona residents, and have a valid driver’s license. The cost of the enhanced license will be $25 in addition to the regular driver’s license fee. Applicants will also be required to provide additional documentation, such as a birth certificate and proof of residency.
The enhanced driver’s licenses will be available at select ADOT offices throughout the state. Residents can schedule an appointment online or walk-in to apply for the new license. The process is expected to take approximately four to six weeks to complete.
“We’re anticipating a high demand for the enhanced driver’s licenses, so we encourage residents to apply early,” said Halikowski. “This new option will make travel between the U.S. and Mexico much more convenient for our residents.”
The introduction of the enhanced driver’s licenses comes as a welcome relief for Arizona residents who have struggled with long wait times at border crossings. Many residents who commute between Arizona and Mexico for work or leisure have faced hours-long delays, causing frustration and inconvenience.
“I travel to Mexico regularly for business, and the long wait times at the border have been a major hassle,” said Maria Rodriguez, a Phoenix resident. “I’m looking forward to getting the enhanced driver’s license so that I can save time and avoid the long lines.”
The enhanced driver’s licenses will be valid for up to eight years and will be accepted at all U.S. land and sea ports of entry. Residents who frequently travel between the U.S. and Mexico are encouraged to consider applying for the new license to make their border crossings more efficient.
“We’re committed to making travel easier for our residents, and the enhanced driver’s licenses are just one way we’re working to improve the process,” said Halikowski. “We hope that this new option will benefit Arizona residents and make their border crossings more seamless.”
The enhanced driver’s licenses are set to launch on October 1st, and ADOT is expecting a high volume of applications in the coming months. Residents who are interested in applying for the new license are encouraged to visit the ADOT website for more information on eligibility requirements and the application process.
Overall, the introduction of the enhanced driver’s licenses is a positive development for Arizona residents who frequently travel between the U.S. and Mexico. With the new licenses, residents can look forward to shorter wait times at border crossings and a more streamlined travel experience.
