If where you live in one of the states that offers the Enhanced Drivers License/ID try to get. It cost a little more than the standard license or id, but it replaces the uses of a passport for all land/sea/rail entry into the US.
http://www.getyouhome.gov/html/lang_eng/eng_edl.html
You other option is to get a Passport Card
http://www.getyouhome.gov/html/lang_eng/eng_uspc.html
Like the Enhanced Drivers License, this is only valid for land/rail/sea entry into the US