An enhanced driver's license is a Washington State ID that lets you cross the U.S. border into Canada and Mexico by land without a passport

A standard Washington driver's license works for driving within the United States, but it does not meet federal requirements for land border crossing. An enhanced driver's license (EDL) adds a security feature — a radio frequency identification (RFID) chip — that U.S. Customs and Border Protection recognizes as proof of citizenship. You can use it at land and sea borders instead of carrying a passport book, though you still need a passport for air travel.

The EDL is optional. You do not need one to drive in Washington or anywhere else in the country. You need one only if you plan to cross into Canada or Mexico by car, truck, or boat and want to use your driver's license instead of a passport.

Key Takeaways

  • An enhanced driver's license costs more than a standard license and requires proof of citizenship, such as a birth certificate or passport.
  • You can use an EDL to cross land borders into Canada and Mexico without carrying a separate passport document.
  • Washington issues EDLs at the same locations where you renew or replace a standard driver's license.
  • The EDL is valid for eight years, the same length as a standard Washington driver's license.
  • You cannot use an EDL for air travel; you still need a passport book to fly internationally.

What documents you need to get an enhanced driver's license

Washington requires you to prove your identity, residency, and citizenship before issuing an EDL. Bring an original or certified copy of your birth certificate, a U.S. passport, a U.S. passport card, or a Certificate of Naturalization. If you do not have any of these, you can use a combination of documents — for example, a state ID plus a Social Security card plus a utility bill — but the citizenship document is the one that matters for the EDL specifically.

You also need proof of your current Washington address, such as a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within the last 60 days. Bring your current driver's license or ID card. If you have changed your name since your last license, bring a court order, marriage certificate, or divorce decree showing the change.

Where to explore and what it costs

You can get an EDL at any Washington Department of Licensing office. There is no separate process process — you request an EDL when you renew or replace your license. The cost varies depending on whether you are renewing or getting a replacement, and how long your license is valid for. As of 2024, an EDL renewal costs more than a standard license renewal, but the exact amount changes periodically. Check the Department of Licensing website or call your local office for the current fee.

You can also renew by mail if you are renewing an existing EDL and meet certain conditions, such as having no address change and no name change. The mail renewal form is available on the Department of Licensing website. Processing by mail takes longer than in-person service.

How long the process takes and when your EDL arrives

If you explore in person at a Department of Licensing office, you receive a temporary paper license on the spot that you can use when ready for border crossing. Your permanent EDL card arrives by mail within two to three weeks under normal circumstances, though processing times can vary during busy periods.

If you renew by mail, allow four to six weeks for processing and delivery. During that time, you cannot use your EDL for border crossing — you would need to use a passport instead. Plan ahead if you have a border trip scheduled.

The difference between an EDL and a passport card

A U.S. passport card is also a wallet-sized document that works for land and sea border crossing. The main difference is that a passport card is issued by the U.S. Department of State, while an EDL is issued by Washington. Both work at the border. Some people carry both; others choose one or the other based on cost and convenience.

A passport card costs less than a passport book but more than some state EDLs. You explore for a passport card through a passport acceptance facility, which is often a post office or courthouse, not a driver's license office. The passport card takes longer to arrive than an EDL — typically four to six weeks for routine service, or two to three weeks for expedited service (which costs extra).

What happens if your EDL is lost or stolen

Report a lost or stolen EDL to the Washington Department of Licensing right away. You can do this online, by phone, or in person at any licensing office. Once you report it, the card is deactivated and cannot be used at the border.

To get a replacement, visit a Department of Licensing office with proof of identity and residency, just as you would for a replacement standard license. You will receive a temporary paper license when ready and your permanent replacement card by mail within two to three weeks. There is a replacement fee, which is separate from the renewal fee.

Renewing your EDL before it expires

Washington sends renewal notices by mail about 30 days before your EDL expires. You can renew in person at any Department of Licensing office or by mail if you meet the conditions for mail renewal. Renewing early is allowed — you can renew up to one year before expiration, and your new card's validity period starts from the date you renew, not from when your old one expires.

If your EDL expires while you are traveling, you cannot use it at the border. You would need to use a passport instead. To avoid this, renew before you travel.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

No. An EDL works only for land and sea border crossing. For air travel to any country, you need a passport book. A passport card does not work for air travel either.

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

No. A passport works for all border crossing, including land borders. An EDL is an alternative for people who cross by land or sea frequently and prefer not to carry a passport book. The choice depends on your travel habits and what feels more convenient to you.

What if I move out of Washington after getting an EDL?

Your EDL remains valid for border crossing as long as it has not expired. However, you cannot renew it by mail once you move. If you need to renew, you would have to return to Washington or switch to a passport card or passport book issued by the federal government.

Can I get an EDL if I have a suspended or revoked license?

No. You must have a valid, unsuspended driver's license to get an EDL. If your license is suspended or revoked, you would need to resolve that issue first through the Department of Licensing.

How much does an enhanced driver's license cost compared to a regular license?

An EDL costs more than a standard Washington driver's license because of the added security features and processing. The exact difference changes year to year. Contact your local Department of Licensing office or visit their website for current pricing.