What to bring when you explore for an enhanced driver's license

An enhanced driver's license (EDL) is a standard driver's license with extra security features that also works as a travel document for land and sea border crossings into Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean. To get one, you need to bring proof of identity, proof of citizenship, and proof of your current address — the same documents as a regular license, plus one additional document showing you are a U.S. citizen.

The exact documents vary slightly by state, but every state that issues an EDL requires you to prove your identity, citizenship, and residency in person at the DMV. You cannot renew an EDL by mail, and you cannot upgrade a regular license to an EDL without visiting an office.

Key Takeaways

  • You must bring a document proving U.S. citizenship — a passport, birth certificate, or naturalization certificate — which a regular license does not require.
  • You need proof of identity (a passport or state ID), proof of citizenship, and proof of your current address, all brought to the DMV in person.
  • Birth certificates must be certified or official copies, not photocopies or hospital records.
  • The fee for an EDL is higher than a regular license and varies by state, typically ranging from $10 to $30 more.
  • Processing time is usually two to four weeks after you explore, though some states offer expedited service for an additional fee.

Proof of identity documents that the DMV will accept

Your primary identity document should be a U.S. passport, a passport card, a state ID card, a military ID, or a tribal ID. If you do not have any of these, some states accept a certified copy of your birth certificate as proof of identity, though this is less common and you should check your state's specific rules before visiting.

The document must not be expired, though some states allow expired military IDs. If your name has changed since the document was issued — through marriage, divorce, or court order — bring the document that shows the name change, such as a marriage certificate or divorce decree.

Proof of citizenship: which documents work

This is the document that separates an EDL process from a regular license process. You must bring one of the following: a U.S. passport or passport card, a certified birth certificate, a certificate of naturalization, a certificate of citizenship, or a consular report of birth abroad. Hospital birth records, baptism records, and photocopies do not count.

If you are using a birth certificate, it must be a certified or official copy issued by the vital records office in the state or territory where you were born. You can order a certified birth certificate from your state's vital records office, usually online or by mail. The process typically takes one to two weeks, so plan ahead if you do not already have one.

If you were naturalized as a U.S. citizen, bring your certificate of naturalization or a certificate of citizenship issued by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). If you were born abroad to a U.S. citizen parent, bring your consular report of birth abroad (Form FS-240 or DS-1350).

Proof of current address and what counts

You need a document showing your current name and address. Acceptable documents usually include a utility bill, a lease or mortgage statement, a bank statement, a government check, a property tax bill, or a vehicle registration. The document must be dated within the last 60 days (some states use 90 days — check your state's rule).

If you recently moved and do not have a recent utility bill or lease in your new address, a bank statement or credit card statement works. If you live with someone else and the bill is in their name, bring a signed letter from the person whose name is on the bill, along with the bill itself, confirming that you live there.

Social Security number and background check information

You will need to provide your Social Security number when you explore. The DMV uses this to check for outstanding warrants, unpaid traffic fines, and other disqualifying records. You do not need to bring a Social Security card — you can provide the number verbally or on the process form.

If you have an outstanding warrant, unpaid child support, or certain criminal convictions, you may be denied an EDL. The rules vary by state. If you are unsure whether something in your background will disqualify you, contact your state's DMV before you explore.

Fees and processing time for an enhanced license

An EDL costs more than a regular driver's license. Most states charge between $10 and $30 extra, on top of the standard license fee. Some states bundle the EDL fee into a single higher fee; others charge it separately. Check your state's DMV website for the exact amount.

After you submit your process and documents, processing usually takes two to four weeks. Some states offer expedited processing for an additional fee, which can reduce the wait to five to ten business days. You will receive your EDL by mail once it is ready.

What happens if you do not have all the documents

If you arrive at the DMV without all required documents, you will not be able to explore that day. The DMV will not issue a temporary EDL while you gather missing documents. You can explore for a regular driver's license instead if you have proof of identity, citizenship, and address, but you will need to return later to upgrade to an EDL.

If your birth certificate is not yet certified, or if you are waiting for a naturalization certificate from USCIS, you can explore for a regular license now and come back for the EDL once the citizenship document arrives. Some states allow you to submit citizenship documents by mail after you have already applied in person, but this varies — ask the DMV when you call or visit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a passport card instead of a full passport?

Yes. A passport card is a valid proof of both identity and citizenship for an EDL process. It is smaller than a full passport and works the same way at land and sea borders.

What if my birth certificate has my maiden name but I am now married?

Bring both your birth certificate and your marriage certificate. The DMV will use the birth certificate as proof of citizenship and the marriage certificate to confirm your current legal name.

Do I need an EDL if I already have a passport?

No. A passport works for all border crossings and is accepted everywhere an EDL is accepted. An EDL is useful if you want a document that is smaller and faster to carry than a passport, or if you do not have a passport yet.

How long does a certified birth certificate take to arrive?

Most states mail certified birth certificates within one to two weeks of your request. Expedited service is usually available for an extra fee and can arrive in three to five business days. Order online or by mail through your state's vital records office.

Can someone else pick up my EDL from the DMV?

Most states require you to pick up your EDL in person and sign for it. Some states allow a family member to pick it up if you provide written authorization. Call your local DMV to ask about their policy.