Arizona Introduces Enhanced Driver’s License for Mexico Travel
PHOENIX, Arizona (AP) – Arizona residents will soon have the option to apply for an enhanced driver’s license designed specifically for travel to Mexico. The new program, announced by the Arizona Department of Transportation, will allow drivers to use their enhanced license to cross the border into Mexico without needing a passport.
The Arizona Enhanced Driver’s License for Mexico, or AEDL-M, will be available to residents who are U.S. citizens and have a valid Arizona driver’s license. The program is part of an initiative to make travel between Arizona and Mexico more convenient and efficient.
“We are excited to offer this new option for Arizona residents who frequently travel to Mexico,” said ADOT spokesperson Sarah Johnson. “The AEDL-M will streamline the border crossing process and provide a secure form of identification for travelers.”
To apply for the AEDL-M, residents will need to visit a participating ADOT office and provide proof of U.S. citizenship, Arizona residency, and identity. The cost of the enhanced license will be $25 in addition to the standard driver’s license fee.
The AEDL-M will feature enhanced security features, including a radio frequency identification (RFID) chip that can be scanned at border crossings to verify the traveler’s identity. The enhanced license will also display a unique symbol indicating its validity for travel to Mexico.
“We understand the importance of secure and efficient border crossings for Arizona residents,” said Johnson. “The AEDL-M will help to expedite the process while ensuring the safety and security of travelers.”
The introduction of the AEDL-M comes as Arizona seeks to strengthen its ties with Mexico and promote cross-border trade and tourism. The Arizona-Mexico Commission, a non-profit organization dedicated to fostering economic and cultural relations between the two regions, has been a strong advocate for the new program.
“We see the AEDL-M as a positive step towards enhancing the relationship between Arizona and Mexico,” said Carlos Fernandez, Executive Director of the Arizona-Mexico Commission. “By making travel easier and more accessible, we hope to encourage more interaction and collaboration between our two communities.”
The AEDL-M is set to launch on July 1, 2021, and will be available to all eligible Arizona residents. In addition to serving as a valid form of identification for travel to Mexico, the enhanced license will also be accepted for domestic air travel and entry into federal facilities.
“We are confident that the AEDL-M will be a valuable resource for Arizona residents who travel to Mexico,” said Johnson. “We encourage eligible drivers to take advantage of this new program and enjoy the convenience and security it offers.”
For more information on the Arizona Enhanced Driver’s License for Mexico, including application requirements and participating ADOT offices, visit the official ADOT website. Travelers are also reminded to check current border crossing regulations and requirements before planning their trip.
