(WKTV) - DMVs all over New York State are now issuing Enhanced Driver Licenses. Come June 1, 2009, Passports will be required for all travel to and from the United States. The new Enhanced Driver License, or EDL, would more or less take the place of a passport.

If you drive to Canada frequently, this new document is a must have. It can be used for land and sea border crossings to and from the U.S., Canada, Mexico, Bermuda and the Caribbean.

How does it work?

The EDL contains a Radio Frequency Identification tag. Border agents will scan the tag...simplifying your border crossing.

DMV Officials in Herkimer County tell NEWSChannel 2 the process to obtain an EDL is an easy one. You will need to bring with you a current New York State Driver License, Social Security card, birth certificate and two proofs of residency.

An EDL costs $30 in addition to the $50 it costs to renew your license. If your license is not expired, the Enhanced Driver License costs $40.

Lee Lasher, with the Herkimer County Department of Motor Vehicles, says you will receive your new license two to three weeks after filling out the proper forms.

It doesn't look much different from the license you have in your wallet now. An EDL has the word "enhanced" on it and an American flag showing you are a citizen.

EDLs are available starting Tuesday.