New Driver's Licence Features Wireless Technology

We've already seen this type of technology implemented in places like Tokyo and Hong Kong, but RFID -- radio frequency identification -- has yet to make a huge splash on our side of the Pacific. It seems that is about to change and the first area where that will take place is in our very own province. The Province of British Columbia is piloting a program wherein an "enhanced" driver's licence will get embedded with a wireless tag containing all your pertinent information.

While this may not necessarily be used in every day life, the EDL -- as it has come to be known -- can function to replace a passport when you are crossing over to the United States via land or sea. Cosmetically, the only difference is a Canadian flag in the top-left corner.

As you approach the border between BC and Washington State, you'll be able to wave your enhanced driver's licence in front of a wireless RFID tag reader, and all of your core information will immediately be displayed to the border guard on duty. They'll get your name, address, birthdate, and so forth. The best part is that the EDL complies with the US Department of Homeland Security concerns. You'll still need a passport when traveling by air, however.

The EDL will be made available for an extra fee, the amount of which has yet to be determined. The pilot project calls for 500 volunteers.

Source: The Province

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