Indiana residents will soon have the option to apply for enhanced driver’s licenses, an initiative aimed at providing residents with an added layer of security and convenience when crossing the border into Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean. The Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) has recently announced that the enhanced driver’s licenses will be available to Hoosiers beginning in January 2022.
The enhanced driver’s license is an advanced form of identification that meets the requirements of the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI), a U.S. law that mandates travelers to present a valid form of identification when entering the United States from Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean. In addition to serving as a standard driver’s license, the enhanced license also includes a machine-readable RFID chip that contains the holder’s biometric data, making it easier for border agents to verify the traveler’s identity.
Indiana BMV Commissioner Peter Lacy stated, “We are excited to offer Indiana residents the option to apply for an enhanced driver’s license. This new form of identification will provide Hoosiers with added security and convenience when traveling across the border. We believe that the enhanced driver’s license will streamline the process for travelers, making it easier for them to cross the border and get to their destination quickly and safely.”
To obtain an enhanced driver’s license, Indiana residents must meet specific eligibility criteria and provide additional documentation during the application process. Applicants must be U.S. citizens, Indiana residents, and must have a valid U.S. passport or birth certificate. The BMV will also conduct a facial recognition scan to verify the applicant’s identity before issuing the enhanced license.
The enhanced driver’s license will be available for an additional fee of $50 on top of the standard driver’s license fee. The enhanced license is valid for up to eight years and will feature a unique design to distinguish it from regular driver’s licenses. Indiana residents who frequently travel to Canada, Mexico, or the Caribbean for business or pleasure are encouraged to apply for the enhanced license to expedite the border crossing process.
Indiana joins a growing number of states that offer enhanced driver’s licenses to their residents, including Michigan, New York, Vermont, and Washington. These states have recognized the importance of providing residents with secure and convenient identification options when traveling internationally. The enhanced driver’s license initiative has been well-received by travelers, as it eliminates the need to carry multiple forms of identification when crossing the border.
The Indiana BMV has been working diligently to prepare for the launch of the enhanced driver’s license program. The agency has trained staff members to process enhanced license applications efficiently and has upgraded its technology to support the issuance of enhanced licenses. The BMV is committed to ensuring a smooth and seamless application process for Indiana residents seeking to obtain the enhanced driver’s license.
In addition to offering enhanced driver’s licenses, the Indiana BMV continues to provide a wide range of services and resources to residents, including vehicle registration, identification cards, and driving tests. The agency is dedicated to upholding the highest standards of customer service and efficiency, and strives to meet the needs of Indiana residents in a timely and professional manner.
As the launch date for the enhanced driver’s license program approaches, Indiana residents are encouraged to stay informed about the application process and eligibility requirements. The Indiana BMV will provide detailed information on its website and at BMV branch locations to guide residents through the enhanced license application process. By obtaining an enhanced driver’s license, Indiana residents can enjoy added security and convenience when traveling across the border, making their international trips more efficient and stress-free.
