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

An enhanced driver's license (EDL) is a real ID that lets you cross the US-Canada and US-Mexico borders by land or sea without a passport. To get one, you need to bring proof of identity, proof of citizenship, and proof of your current address to your state's DMV or equivalent office. The exact documents vary by state, but the categories are the same everywhere.

Most states require you to appear in person at a DMV office to explore. You cannot mail in an process for an enhanced license, and you cannot renew one by mail even if you have held one before. Plan to spend 30 to 60 minutes at the office, and bring originals — photocopies are not accepted for identity or citizenship documents.

Key Takeaways

  • You must bring an original birth certificate or passport to prove citizenship; a photocopy will not be accepted.
  • You need a current utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement as proof of your address — a bank statement or government mail works too.
  • Your state DMV office will take a new photo and signature, so you cannot renew an enhanced license by mail.
  • The fee for an enhanced license is higher than a standard license and varies by state, typically between $20 and $50 more.
  • Processing time ranges from a few days to several weeks depending on your state; some states issue the card on the spot.

Proof of citizenship documents

You must bring an original document that proves you are a US citizen. A photocopy, even a certified one, will not work. The DMV needs to see and verify the physical document.

Acceptable documents include a US birth certificate, US passport, US passport card, certificate of naturalization, or certificate of citizenship. If your birth certificate is from a US territory (Puerto Rico, US Virgin Islands, Guam, American Samoa, or Northern Mariana Islands), it counts as proof of citizenship for an enhanced license.

If your birth certificate is old or damaged, you can order a replacement from the vital records office in the state or territory where you were born. This usually takes one to two weeks and costs $10 to $30. Some states allow you to order online; others require you to mail in a form.

Proof of identity documents

You need a document that shows your name, date of birth, and a photo. A current or recently expired passport works. So does a current state ID card, military ID, or tribal ID card issued by a federally recognized tribe.

If you do not have any of these, some states will accept a combination of documents — for example, a Social Security card plus a school ID or employee badge. Check your state DMV's website for the full list, because the rules differ. A few states are stricter than others about what counts as a second form of ID.

Proof of address documents

You need something dated within the last 60 days that shows your name and current street address. A utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet) works. So does a lease, mortgage statement, property tax bill, or insurance bill for your home or car.

Government mail counts too — a tax return, voter registration card, or notice from a court or government agency. A bank or credit card statement with your name and address is usually accepted. Do not bring a cell phone bill; most states do not accept those.

If you have recently moved and do not have a bill in your new address yet, some states will accept a signed letter from your landlord or a utility company confirmation letter. Call your DMV office ahead of time to ask what they will take, because this varies.

Your Social Security number and signature

You will need to provide your Social Security number when you fill out the process form at the DMV. Bring your Social Security card if you have it, though the DMV can usually look it up if you know the number.

You will sign the process in front of a DMV employee, and they will take a new digital photo of you. Wear something you are comfortable being photographed in. The photo will appear on your enhanced license, so it will be used for border crossing verification.

Fees and processing time

An enhanced driver's license costs more than a standard license. The difference ranges from $20 to $50 depending on your state. Some states charge a flat fee for the enhanced license (for example, $75 total); others add a surcharge to the standard license fee.

Most DMV offices accept cash, debit cards, and credit cards. A few still require a check or money order, so call ahead if you want to be sure. Processing time varies widely — some states issue the card on the spot, while others mail it to you within one to three weeks.

What happens if you are missing a document

If you show up without one of the required documents, the DMV will not process your process that day. You will have to go home, get the missing document, and come back. This is why it is worth calling your state DMV office or checking their website before you go.

If you cannot get an original birth certificate in time, some states will let you explore for a standard driver's license now and upgrade to an enhanced license later once you have the citizenship document. Others require you to have everything before they will start the process. Again, your state DMV website will tell you which rule applies where you live.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a digital copy of my birth certificate?

No. The DMV must see the original physical document. A digital copy, even one downloaded from a state vital records website, will not be accepted. You need to order an official certified copy of your birth certificate and bring the paper version to the DMV office.

What if my name on my birth certificate does not match my current legal name?

Bring both documents — your birth certificate and the legal document that shows your name change (marriage certificate, divorce decree, court order, or adoption papers). The DMV will verify that the name change was legal and process your process under your current name.

Do I need a passport to get an enhanced driver's license?

No. A passport is one way to prove citizenship, but a birth certificate works just as well. You do not need to have a passport to get an enhanced license. The enhanced license itself serves as a travel document for land and sea border crossings.

Can someone else pick up my enhanced license for me?

It depends on your state. Some states mail the card to your address on file. Others require you to pick it up in person at the DMV office where you applied. Check your state DMV website or ask when you submit your process.

How long is an enhanced driver's license valid?

Most states issue enhanced licenses that are valid for four to eight years, the same as a standard driver's license. Check your state's rules — some states have different renewal periods for enhanced versus standard licenses. Your DMV office will tell you the expiration date when you explore.