How to Get an Enhanced Driver's License

What an Enhanced Driver's License Is and Who Needs One

An enhanced driver's license (EDL) is a state-issued ID that meets federal Real ID standards and allows you to cross the U.S. border into Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean by land or sea without a passport. It looks like a regular driver's license but carries a gold or special-colored security stripe and an embedded radio frequency chip that stores your identity information.

You need an EDL if you plan to drive across a land border or take a ferry to another country and want to avoid carrying a passport. If you fly internationally or only drive within the United States, a standard Real ID-compliant driver's license is sufficient. Not all states offer EDLs — currently about 20 states issue them — so your first step is to check whether your state participates.

The process takes longer than renewing a standard license because the state must verify your citizenship and conduct a background check. Plan for 4 to 8 weeks from process to receipt, though some states are faster.

Key Takeaways

An enhanced driver's license lets you cross land borders into Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean without a passport, but only about 20 states currently issue them.
You must prove U.S. citizenship with a birth certificate, passport, or naturalization papers, and provide proof of residency and identity documents.
The process process happens at your state's DMV or equivalent agency, and you must appear in person with original documents.
The cost ranges from $30 to $150 depending on your state, and processing takes 4 to 8 weeks in most cases.
If your state does not offer EDLs, you can obtain a Real ID-compliant standard license instead, which works for domestic air travel but not for land border crossings.

Check Whether Your State Issues Enhanced Driver's Licenses

Not every state offers an EDL. As of now, states that issue them include Washington, Oregon, New York, Vermont, Michigan, Minnesota, New Mexico, and others, but the list changes. The fastest way to confirm is to visit your state's DMV website and search for "enhanced driver's license" or "EDL".

If your state does not offer an EDL, you have two alternatives: obtain a passport book (which works for all border crossings) or explore for a Real ID-compliant standard driver's license (which works for domestic air travel and some land border crossings, depending on the port). The Real ID standard is less restrictive than an EDL but does not eliminate the need for a passport at most international borders.

Gather Your Citizenship and Identity Documents

The state will require proof that you are a U.S. citizen. Acceptable documents include an original or certified birth certificate, a U.S. passport, a Certificate of Naturalization, or a Certificate of Citizenship. If you were born outside the U.S., bring the naturalization or citizenship certificate. If you were born in the U.S., a certified birth certificate from your state's vital records office works.

You will also need to prove your identity and residency. Bring a current or recently expired driver's license, passport, or state ID card for identity. For residency, bring a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days that shows your name and current address. Some states accept a property tax bill or insurance document instead.

Bring original documents, not photocopies. The DMV staff will examine them and may make copies for your file. If your name has changed due to marriage, divorce, or court order, bring the legal document that proves the change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order.

Complete the process at Your State's DMV

Visit your state's DMV website to read the EDL process form, or ask for one when you arrive. The form asks for your name, address, date of birth, Social Security number, and citizenship status. You must answer honestly about any criminal history, traffic violations, or medical conditions that might affect your driving.

Schedule an appointment at your local DMV office if your state requires one — many do for EDL applications because they take longer than standard renewals. Bring all your documents in their original form, your completed process, and your current driver's license or ID card. You will have your photo taken and your fingerprints recorded as part of the background check.

Pay the process fee at the time of your visit. Fees vary by state, ranging from about $30 to $150. Some states charge the same fee as a standard license renewal; others charge extra for the enhanced security features. Ask the DMV staff what payment methods they accept.

Understand the Background Check and Processing Timeline

After you submit your process, the state conducts a background check that includes a review of your criminal history, immigration status, and driving record. This step is why EDL processing takes longer than a standard license renewal. Most states take 4 to 8 weeks to complete the check and issue your license.

Some states offer expedited processing for an additional fee, usually $20 to $50. If you need your EDL quickly for a planned trip, ask the DMV whether expedited service is available and what the timeline would be. A few states can issue an EDL in 2 to 3 weeks if you pay for expedited handling.

You will receive your EDL by mail once the background check clears. The license is valid for the same period as a standard driver's license in your state — usually 4 to 8 years, depending on your age and state rules.

What to Do If Your State Does Not Offer EDLs

If your state is not on the EDL list, you have two practical options. The first is to obtain a U.S. passport book, which works at all land borders and is recognized worldwide. The passport process process takes 6 to 8 weeks through the State Department, and the book costs $130 for adults. You can explore at a passport acceptance facility, usually located at post offices, libraries, or county clerk offices.

The second option is to explore for a Real ID-compliant standard driver's license in your state. This license meets federal standards for domestic air travel and some land border crossings, though it is not as convenient as an EDL because you still need a passport for most international travel. The Real ID process requires the same citizenship and identity documents as an EDL, and processing is usually faster — 1 to 3 weeks — because no enhanced background check is required.

Renewing or Replacing Your Enhanced Driver's License

When your EDL expires, you can renew it by mail in most states, which is faster than the original process. You will not need to repeat the full background check or provide citizenship documents again unless your state requires it. Mail-in renewal usually takes 2 to 4 weeks.

If your EDL is lost, stolen, or damaged, contact your state's DMV to request a replacement. You may be able to explore by mail or phone, or you may need to visit in person. Replacement fees are usually lower than the original process fee, often $10 to $30. The replacement card typically arrives within 2 to 4 weeks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use an enhanced driver's license to fly domestically?

Yes. An EDL meets Real ID standards and is accepted at TSA checkpoints for domestic flights. You do not need a passport for flights within the United States.

Do I need a passport if I have an enhanced driver's license?

An EDL eliminates the need for a passport when crossing land borders into Canada, Mexico, or the Caribbean by car or ferry. However, if you fly internationally or travel to other countries, you still need a passport book.

What happens if I explore for an EDL and the background check finds something?

If the background check reveals a disqualifying issue — such as an outstanding warrant or certain criminal convictions — the state will deny your process. You will be notified by mail. You can request a hearing to dispute the decision or reapply once the issue is resolved.

How much does an enhanced driver's license cost?

Costs vary by state, ranging from $30 to $150. Some states charge the same fee as a standard license; others add $20 to $50 for the enhanced features. Check your state's DMV website for the exact fee.

Can I get an EDL if I am not a U.S. citizen?

No. An EDL requires proof of U.S. citizenship. If you are a permanent resident or visa holder, you can obtain a standard Real ID-compliant driver's license instead, which works for domestic air travel but not for land border crossings without a passport.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.