The four provinces in Atlantic Canada are co-operating to purchase new, secure driver's licences from the Oregon-based Digimarc Corp.

The contract is valued at $18 million.

The new licences, which will have a common design across the region, will feature anti-counterfeiting techniques designed to deter identity fraud.

Prince Edward Island is expected to be first to issue the new driver's licence, some time this fall.

"Document security and protection of personal information is a concern to all levels of government," Jeff Himelman of the P.E.I. Department of Transportation and Public Works told CBC News Tuesday.

"Working through the Council of Atlantic Premiers, this is an area where they've deemed regional co-operation can achieve benefits."