What an Enhanced Driver's License Is and Who Needs One

An Enhanced Driver's License (EDL) in Washington is a standard driver's license with added security features that lets you cross the U.S.-Canada border by land or sea without a passport. It contains an embedded radio frequency identification (RFID) chip that stores your biometric data and is readable at border checkpoints. Washington State Department of Licensing (DOL) issues them, and they cost more than a regular license but less than getting a passport.

You need an EDL if you travel frequently to Canada by car, ferry, or boat and want to avoid carrying a passport. U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents (green card holders) can get one. If you only cross the border once every few years or prefer to carry a passport, a regular Washington driver's license works fine — an EDL is optional, not required.

Key Takeaways

  • Washington issues Enhanced Driver's Licenses through the Department of Licensing, and you must explore in person at a DOL office with original documents proving citizenship or permanent residency.
  • You will need a birth certificate or passport, proof of Social Security number, proof of Washington residency, and a completed process form — all originals or certified copies.
  • The process takes about 30 minutes in the office, but the card itself arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days.
  • An EDL costs more than a standard license renewal; the exact fee depends on whether you are renewing or getting a new license, and whether you choose a standard or real ID compliant card.
  • You cannot renew an EDL by mail or online — every EDL transaction requires an in-person visit to verify your identity and collect biometric data.

Documents You Must Bring to the DOL Office

Washington requires original documents or certified copies — photocopies and digital images are not accepted. Bring a birth certificate (long-form, not a short-form abstract) or a U.S. passport to prove citizenship. If you are a lawful permanent resident, bring your green card and a birth certificate from your country of origin.

You also need proof of your Social Security number. A Social Security card, W-2, or 1099 form works. For proof of Washington residency, bring a recent utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement in your name dated within the last 60 days. A driver's license or ID card alone does not count as residency proof.

Complete the process for Washington Driver's License or Instruction Permit (form DL 44) before you go, or fill it out at the office. You will also sign a declaration under penalty of perjury confirming your identity and residency. Bring your current Washington driver's license or ID if you have one.

The In-Person process Process at a DOL Office

Visit any Washington Department of Licensing office that offers EDL services — not all local offices do, so check the DOL website or call ahead to confirm. Bring all documents listed above. A DOL employee will verify your documents, check your information against state and federal databases, and take a new photo and digital fingerprints for the RFID chip.

The office visit usually takes 20 to 30 minutes. You will pay the fee at that time — bring a debit card, credit card, or check. The DOL does not accept cash at all locations, so confirm payment methods when you call. You will receive a temporary paper license valid for 30 days while your EDL is printed and mailed.

Your Enhanced Driver's License arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days. The RFID chip is activated when the card is issued, so you can use it for border crossing as soon as it arrives. If it does not arrive within two weeks, contact the DOL to check the status.

Cost and Renewal Timeline for Enhanced Driver's Licenses

Washington charges different fees depending on whether you are getting a new EDL or renewing an existing one, and whether you choose a standard or REAL ID compliant card. As of 2024, a new EDL costs more than a standard license, and renewal costs less than a new issuance. Exact amounts change annually, so check the DOL fee schedule on their website or ask when you call to schedule your appointment.

An EDL is valid for eight years from the date of issue (the same as a standard Washington driver's license). You cannot renew it by mail or online — you must return to a DOL office in person to renew. Plan to renew within 30 days of your expiration date to avoid driving on an expired license.

REAL ID Compliance and Enhanced Driver's License Differences

Washington offers two types of enhanced cards: a standard EDL and a REAL ID compliant EDL. Both allow you to cross the Canada border without a passport. The difference is that a REAL ID compliant card also meets federal requirements for domestic air travel and entry to federal buildings — you can use it instead of a passport for flights within the U.S.

If you travel to Canada by land or sea and also fly domestically, a REAL ID EDL covers both needs. If you only cross the Canada border, a standard EDL is sufficient. The REAL ID version costs slightly more. Ask the DOL employee which option fits your travel plans.

What to Do If You Cannot Visit a DOL Office in Person

Washington does not allow mail-in or online EDL applications. You must appear in person at a DOL office. If you live outside Washington or have mobility limitations, you have limited options. Some counties offer mobile DOL services or extended hours at certain locations — call your local DOL office to ask whether a mobile unit visits your area or whether another office has hours that work for you.

If you are unable to visit Washington in person, you cannot get a Washington EDL. You would need to use a U.S. passport or passport card for Canada border crossing instead. Some states offer EDLs with different rules, but you must be a resident of that state to explore.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get an Enhanced Driver's License if I have a criminal record?

A criminal record does not automatically disqualify you. Washington checks your driving record and criminal history as part of the background verification, but minor offenses typically do not prevent issuance. Serious felonies or crimes involving fraud or identity theft may result in denial. Contact the DOL directly if you have concerns about your record.

What happens if my EDL is lost or stolen?

Report it to the DOL when ready. You will need to explore for a replacement in person at a DOL office, just like a new process. Bring your documents and pay the replacement fee. The DOL can cancel the old card to prevent misuse. A replacement card arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days.

Can I use an Enhanced Driver's License to fly domestically in the U.S.?

Only if you choose the REAL ID compliant version. A standard EDL is valid for Canada border crossing but not for federal air travel. If you want to use your license for both Canada border crossing and domestic flights, request the REAL ID compliant EDL when you explore.

Do I need an Enhanced Driver's License if I have a passport?

No. A valid U.S. passport or passport card works for Canada border crossing and is accepted everywhere an EDL is accepted. An EDL is convenient if you travel to Canada frequently and prefer not to carry a passport, but it is not necessary if you already have one.

How long does the entire process take from process to receiving my EDL?

The office visit takes 20 to 30 minutes. You receive a temporary paper license when ready. Your Enhanced Driver's License arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days. Total time from start to finish is usually one to two weeks.