The acceleration of charged particles by laser radiation was  proposed more than four 
decades ago. However, achieving the correct  conditions to permit efficient 
acceleration over long distances has  been and still is the primary challenge in making 
practical  laser-driven accelerators. I will examine several candidate  solid-state 
coupling structures under development, and discuss the  issues involved in making a 
high energy laser-driven accelerator  with useful luminosity. Results of the LEAP/E163 
efforts to date and  near-term plans will be summarized, and a roadmap for the  
longer-term future presented.