WASHINGTON, D.C. – The U.S. Department of Homeland Security signed a Memorandum of Agreement with the State of Washington to launch a pilot program that will enhance the security of state driver’s licenses and potentially serve as an acceptable alternative document for crossing the United States’ land and sea borders, according to the Web site www.technologynewsdaily.com. The Washington pilot program is one possible compliance alternative to Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI) requirements. As early as January 2008, U.S. citizens reentering the U.S. from Canada, Mexico, Central and South America, the Caribbean, or Bermuda by land or sea, including ferries, may be required to present a valid U.S. passport or other documents as determined by the Department of Homeland Security. Under the agreement, the state of Washington will develop an enhanced driver’s license that will provide Washington residents, who voluntarily apply and qualify, with a document that is acceptable for use at U.S. land and sea ports. The enhanced driver’s license will be slightly more expensive than a standard Washington state driver’s license and will require proof of citizenship, identity, and residence, as well as contain security features similar to a U.S. passport.