What an Enhanced Driver's License Is and Why You Might Need One

An enhanced driver's license (EDL) in Washington is a standard driver's license with extra security features and proof that you've verified your identity and citizenship. The main reason to get one is that it lets you cross the U.S. border into Canada or Mexico by land or sea without a passport — a regular driver's license does not. If you travel to those countries by air, you still need a passport.

Washington's EDL also works as a Real ID-compliant document, meaning it meets federal standards for entering federal buildings and boarding domestic flights. If you already have a passport card or passport book, an EDL is not necessary for those same border crossings, but many people find it simpler to carry a single document.

Key Takeaways

  • You must bring proof of U.S. citizenship, a state-issued ID, proof of your Social Security number, and proof of your current Washington address to the Department of Licensing office.
  • The EDL costs $72 for an eight-year license (or $60 for a four-year license if you are over 65), plus the standard driver's license fee if you are renewing or upgrading.
  • Processing takes about two weeks by mail after your in-person visit, though you can request expedited service for an additional fee.
  • You cannot renew an EDL by mail or online — you must visit a Department of Licensing office in person every time.
  • An EDL is not required for air travel; a standard Real ID driver's license works for domestic flights.

Documents You Need to Bring to the Department of Licensing

Bring originals or certified copies — photocopies are not accepted. You will need one document from each of these four categories: proof of citizenship, proof of identity, proof of your Social Security number, and proof of your current address.

For citizenship, bring your U.S. passport, passport card, birth certificate (long-form, issued by the state), Certificate of Naturalization, or Certificate of U.S. Citizenship. A birth certificate must have a raised seal or be certified by the issuing vital records office.

For identity, bring your current Washington driver's license, Washington ID card, passport, military ID, or tribal ID. If you do not have any of these, you can bring a combination of documents like a Social Security card plus a high school diploma or college transcript.

For Social Security, bring your Social Security card, a W-2 form, a 1099 form, a pay stub, or a tax return. For address, bring a recent utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or government mail with your current name and address. The address document must be dated within the last 60 days.

The process Process at the Department of Licensing Office

Visit any Washington Department of Licensing office in person — you cannot start an EDL process online or by mail. Bring all four categories of documents listed above, your current driver's license or ID, and the process fee.

At the office, staff will verify your documents, take your photograph and signature, and process your process on the spot. You will receive a receipt with a confirmation number. Your EDL will be mailed to the address on file within about two weeks. During that time, you can use your receipt as proof that you have applied.

If you need your EDL faster, ask the office about expedited processing when you visit. Washington offers rush service for an additional fee, though availability varies by location. Call your local office before you go to confirm they offer expedited service and what the extra cost is.

Fees and Payment

The EDL enhancement costs $72 for an eight-year license. If you are 65 or older, the cost is $60 for a four-year license. These fees are separate from the standard driver's license renewal fee, which depends on whether you are renewing, upgrading from a standard license, or getting your first license.

Payment is cash, check, or card — ask your local office which methods they accept. Some offices have ATMs on-site if you need cash. If you are renewing your driver's license at the same time as upgrading to an EDL, you will pay both fees together.

Renewing Your Enhanced Driver's License

Unlike a standard Washington driver's license, you cannot renew an EDL by mail or online. You must visit a Department of Licensing office in person every time your license expires. Bring the same four categories of documents you brought for your first EDL, plus your current license.

Start the renewal process at least a month before your license expires. If your license has already expired, you can still renew it, but you may face a late fee. Check the expiration date on your license and plan your office visit accordingly.

Finding Your Nearest Department of Licensing Office

Washington has Department of Licensing offices in most counties. Visit the state Department of Licensing website and use their office locator tool to find the one nearest you, check their hours, and see whether they require an appointment or accept walk-ins.

Some offices are busier than others. If you can, visit early in the week or early in the day to avoid long waits. Call ahead to ask how busy they are, or check online for current wait times if your local office posts them.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get an enhanced driver's license if I am not a U.S. citizen?

No. You must be a U.S. citizen to get an EDL. Lawful permanent residents and other non-citizens can get a standard Washington driver's license, which is also Real ID-compliant for domestic flights, but it does not allow you to cross the land border into Canada or Mexico without a passport.

What if I lost my birth certificate or do not have one?

You can order a certified copy from the state vital records office where you were born. The process takes one to two weeks by mail. In the meantime, you can use a passport, passport card, Certificate of Naturalization, or Certificate of U.S. Citizenship instead.

Do I need an enhanced driver's license for a cruise to Mexico or Canada?

An EDL works for closed-loop cruises (cruises that depart and return to the same U.S. port). For any other sea travel, you need a passport or passport card. Check your cruise line's requirements before you book.

Can I use my EDL to cross the border by air?

No. For air travel to Canada or Mexico, you must have a passport, passport card, or NEXUS card. An EDL is only valid for land and sea border crossings.

What happens if my address changes after I get my EDL?

You can update your address at any Department of Licensing office without renewing your license. Bring your current license and proof of your new address. There is no fee for an address change.