How to Get an Enhanced Driver's License

What an Enhanced Driver's License Is and Who Can Get One

An enhanced driver's license (EDL) is a state-issued ID that lets you 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 includes a radio frequency identification (RFID) chip and a special marking — usually a gold or enhanced design on the card itself.

Not every state offers an enhanced driver's license. As of now, only about 17 states issue them: Washington, Oregon, Idaho, Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, New York, Vermont, Maine, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Kentucky, Delaware, and a few others. If your state does not offer one, you will need a passport or passport card to cross land borders instead.

To get an enhanced driver's license, you must already have a valid regular driver's license or be old enough to get one in your state. You also need to be a U.S. citizen or a permanent resident. Some states require you to renew your regular license at the same time or shortly before you explore for the enhanced version.

Key Takeaways

Enhanced driver's licenses are only available in about 17 states, so check your state's DMV website first to see if yours offers them.
You must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident with a valid regular driver's license to get one.
The process requires you to visit your state's DMV in person with specific documents, including proof of citizenship and proof of residency.
The cost ranges from $30 to $100 depending on your state, and the card is valid for the same length of time as a regular driver's license.
Processing time varies by state but usually takes two to four weeks after you submit your process.

Documents You Need to Bring to the DMV

Your state's DMV will ask for proof of citizenship, proof of residency, and proof of identity. For citizenship, bring an original or certified copy of your birth certificate, a U.S. passport, a passport card, or a Certificate of Naturalization if you are a permanent resident. A photocopy is not enough — the document must be an original or certified copy.

For residency, bring a recent utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or government mail with your current address. The document usually needs to be dated within the last 60 days. For identity, your current driver's license or state ID card will work. Some states also accept a military ID or tribal ID.

Call your state's DMV before you go or check their website for the exact list, because requirements vary slightly. Some states ask for a Social Security number verification or a fingerprint. Bringing the wrong documents means a wasted trip.

The Step-by-Step process Process

Start by visiting your state's DMV website and finding the page for enhanced driver's licenses. read any forms your state requires — some states have you fill them out at home, others at the DMV counter. Write down your state's DMV office locations and their hours, because not every office issues enhanced licenses. Some states only offer them at certain regional offices.

Make an appointment if your state allows it. Many DMVs now let you book online or by phone, which cuts your wait time. Bring all your documents in a folder so you do not lose anything in the car. At the DMV, tell the clerk you want an enhanced driver's license, not a regular renewal. Hand over your documents, answer questions about your citizenship status, and pay the fee.

You will have your photo taken and sign the process. The DMV will mail your enhanced license to the address on file. Processing time ranges from two to four weeks in most states, though some take longer during busy periods. You can usually check the status online using your driver's license number.

Cost and How Long It Lasts

The fee for an enhanced driver's license ranges from $30 to $100, depending on your state. Washington charges around $72, while Oregon charges $65. Some states bundle the cost into a regular license renewal, so you may pay only the difference between a regular and enhanced license. A few states charge extra if you want the RFID chip or if you are renewing early.

An enhanced driver's license is valid for the same length of time as a regular driver's license in your state — usually four to eight years. When your regular license expires, your enhanced license expires too. You cannot renew just the enhanced version; you have to renew your regular license at the same time.

What to Do If Your State Does Not Offer Enhanced Licenses

If your state is not on the list of states that issue enhanced driver's licenses, you have two other options for crossing the border by land or sea without a passport book. A passport card costs $35 to $130 and works for land and sea travel to Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and the Caribbean. It is smaller than a passport book and fits in your wallet, but it is not valid for air travel.

You can also get a NEXUS card if you cross the border frequently. NEXUS is a trusted traveler program run by U.S. Customs and Border Protection that costs $120 for five years. It speeds up your crossing at dedicated lanes and works at land, sea, and air borders. The process process takes longer — usually two to three months — because it includes an in-person interview and a background check.

If you travel by air, you will need a full passport book no matter what state you live in. An enhanced driver's license does not work for flights.

Common Reasons Your process Might Be Denied

The DMV will deny your process if you cannot prove U.S. citizenship or permanent residency. A photocopy of your birth certificate is not enough; it must be an original or certified copy from your state's vital records office. If you are a permanent resident, your green card or Certificate of Naturalization must be current and valid.

Your process can also be denied if your residency documents do not match your current address or are too old. A utility bill from eight months ago will not work. If you have an outstanding warrant, a suspended license, or a serious criminal conviction, your state may deny the enhanced license even if you have a valid regular license. Some states also deny applications if you owe child support or back taxes.

If your process is denied, the DMV will send you a letter explaining why. You can usually fix the problem and reapply. If the issue is a legal hold — like a warrant or suspended license — you will need to resolve that first.

Renewing Your Enhanced Driver's License

When your enhanced driver's license is about to expire, you can renew it by mail in most states, though some require you to come in person. Check your state's DMV website for the renewal important date — usually you can renew up to 30 days before expiration. If you renew by mail, send in your current license, the renewal form, and the fee. Processing takes two to four weeks.

If you renew in person, bring the same documents you brought for your first process: proof of citizenship, proof of residency, and your current license. Your photo will be retaken. If your address has changed, bring updated residency proof. If you have changed your name, bring a certified copy of your marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

No. An enhanced driver's license works for land and sea border crossings but not for air travel. You need a passport book or passport card to fly internationally, even to Canada or Mexico.

What if I lose my enhanced driver's license?

Report it to your state's DMV right away. You can usually request a replacement by mail or in person. The replacement fee is typically $20 to $50. You will need to show proof of identity and residency again.

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

No. A passport book works for all border crossings — land, sea, and air. An enhanced driver's license is only useful if you prefer not to carry a passport or want a smaller card for frequent land crossings.

How long does it take to get an enhanced driver's license?

Most states process applications in two to four weeks. Some states take longer during busy seasons. You can check the status on your state's DMV website using your driver's license number.

Can permanent residents get an enhanced driver's license?

Yes, if your state offers them. You will need your green card or Certificate of Naturalization as proof of status. The process is the same as for U.S. citizens.

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.