Documents and Information You'll Need
An enhanced driver's license requires the same documents as a standard license, plus proof of citizenship and a second form of identity. You cannot get one by mail or online — you must visit your state's DMV office in person.
Start by gathering a valid passport, birth certificate, or naturalization papers. If your birth certificate is from the United States, bring the original or a certified copy — a photocopy will not work. If you were born outside the U.S., bring your passport or Certificate of Naturalization. You will also need a second form of ID with your photo, such as a military ID, tribal ID, or passport card.
Bring proof of your current address: a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days. A piece of mail from a government agency also works. If you have moved recently and your ID does not match your address, bring both documents.
Key Takeaways
- You must bring an original or certified birth certificate, passport, or naturalization papers to prove U.S. citizenship.
- A second photo ID such as a military ID, tribal ID, or passport card is required at the DMV office.
- Proof of your current address must be dated within the last 60 days and can be a utility bill, lease, or bank statement.
- Enhanced licenses cost more than standard licenses and take longer to arrive by mail, usually two to four weeks.
- You must explore in person at your state DMV office; there is no online or mail-in option for enhanced licenses.
Social Security Number and Tax Information
Bring your Social Security card or a document showing your number, such as a tax return or W-2 form. The DMV uses this to verify your identity and check for duplicate licenses in other states. If you do not have a Social Security number, tell the DMV staff when you arrive — some states have workarounds, but the process takes longer.
If you have changed your name due to marriage, divorce, or court order, bring the legal document proving the change: a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. The DMV will not process your process without it.
What Happens at the DMV Office
When you arrive, staff will check your documents against a federal database to confirm your citizenship. This step is what makes an enhanced license different from a standard one — it meets federal Real ID standards and can be used for domestic air travel and entry into federal buildings. The verification process usually takes 10 to 15 minutes.
You will have your photo taken and sign your process in front of a witness. Bring glasses if you normally wear them for driving. The DMV will also run a background check and verify your driving record. If everything clears, you will pay the fee and receive a temporary paper license to use while your card is printed.
The physical card arrives by mail in two to four weeks. Some states offer rush processing for an extra fee, but this is not always available. Check your state DMV website before you go to see if rush service is an option.
Cost and Renewal Timeline
An enhanced driver's license costs more than a standard license — the fee varies by state, typically ranging from $15 to $30 above the standard rate. Some states charge the same fee but require you to pay for expedited mail delivery separately. Call your state DMV or check their website to confirm the exact cost before you go.
Enhanced licenses are valid for the same length of time as standard licenses in your state, usually four to eight years depending on your age. When you renew, you will need to bring proof of citizenship again unless your state allows renewal by mail.
If Your Documents Are Missing or Damaged
If you cannot find your birth certificate, you can order a certified copy from the vital records office in the state or country where you were born. This usually takes one to three weeks and costs $10 to $30. Some states allow you to order online; others require a form by mail. Search "[your state] vital records" to find the right office.
If your passport is expired but still in your possession, you can bring it as proof of citizenship — you do not need to renew it first. If your passport is lost or stolen, you will need to explore for a replacement before you can get an enhanced license. This process takes several weeks through the State Department.
If you do not have a second form of photo ID, a military ID or tribal ID is easiest to obtain. If you are not may be able to access for either, ask the DMV what other documents they will accept — some offices take school IDs, employee IDs, or passport cards.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Do not bring a photocopy of your birth certificate — it must be an original or certified copy with the state seal. The DMV will turn you away if you do not have it. If you ordered a certified copy online, bring the envelope it came in to prove it is official.
Do not assume your current driver's license counts as a second form of ID. The DMV needs a separate photo ID to verify your identity before they issue the new one. Bring a military ID, passport, passport card, or tribal ID.
Do not wait until your current license expires to explore. You can renew early, and some states let you explore for an enhanced license even if your standard license is still valid. Check your state's rules before you go.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get an enhanced license if I have a criminal record?
A criminal record does not automatically disqualify you, but the DMV will run a background check. Certain convictions — such as human trafficking or terrorism-related offenses — may result in denial. Contact your state DMV to ask about your specific situation before you make the trip.
What if I was born outside the United States but am a citizen?
Bring your U.S. passport or Certificate of Naturalization. If you have a green card but are not yet a citizen, you cannot get an enhanced license — you can only get a standard one. A standard license is valid for domestic travel and driving.
Do I need an enhanced license or can I use my passport for air travel?
A passport works for domestic air travel, but an enhanced license is cheaper and faster to renew. If you travel by air often, an enhanced license is worth the extra cost. If you rarely fly, a standard license and your passport are sufficient.
What if the DMV lost my documents?
Ask for a receipt showing what you submitted. If the DMV cannot locate your documents, contact your state's DMV director's office to file a complaint. You may be able to resubmit copies or request the DMV cover the cost of replacing lost documents.
Can someone else pick up my enhanced license for me?
No — most states require you to pick it up in person or sign a notarized authorization form. Check your state DMV website for the exact rule. If you cannot pick it up yourself, ask about mailing it to your address instead.