What an Enhanced Driver's License Is and Who Issues It

An enhanced driver's license (EDL) is a state-issued ID that meets federal Real ID standards and also allows you to cross the U.S. border into Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean by land or sea without a passport. Not all states offer them. Currently, about 17 states and Washington D.C. issue EDLs, including Washington, Oregon, New York, Vermont, Michigan, Minnesota, and others. Your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or equivalent agency is the only place that issues them.

The EDL contains a gold or special-colored security stripe or marking that distinguishes it from a standard Real ID driver's license. It costs more than a regular license — typically $20 to $60 more, depending on your state — and requires additional documentation to prove citizenship or lawful permanent residency. If your state does not offer EDLs, a passport or passport card is the alternative for land border crossing.

Key Takeaways

  • Only about 17 states issue enhanced driver's licenses; check your state DMV website to see if yours does.
  • You must prove U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent residency with documents like a birth certificate, passport, or naturalization certificate.
  • An EDL costs $20 to $60 more than a standard Real ID license and is valid for the same period as your regular license.
  • You can renew an EDL by mail in some states if you meet age and medical requirements, but first-time EDL applicants must visit the DMV in person.

Documents You Need to Bring to the DMV

Proof of citizenship is the main additional requirement for an EDL beyond what you need for a standard Real ID license. Acceptable documents include an original or certified copy of your U.S. birth certificate, a valid U.S. passport, a passport card, a certificate of naturalization, or a certificate of citizenship. Some states also accept a Consular Report of Birth Abroad (Form FS-240) or a Native American tribal document.

You will also need to bring the same documents required for any Real ID license: a current or expired driver's license or state ID, proof of Social Security number (Social Security card, W-2, or 1099), and proof of current address (utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days). Bring originals or certified copies — photocopies are not accepted for citizenship documents.

If you have changed your name since your birth certificate was issued, bring a certified copy of the document that shows the legal name change, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. Your state DMV website lists the exact documents it accepts, so check there before you go.

Steps to explore for an Enhanced Driver's License

First, visit your state's DMV website and confirm that your state offers EDLs. If it does, check whether you can explore online, by mail, or only in person. Most states require you to explore in person for a first-time EDL, though some allow renewals by mail if you meet certain conditions.

Next, gather all required documents — your proof of citizenship, proof of Social Security number, proof of address, and current ID. Some states let you upload documents online before your visit; others require you to bring them with you. Check your state's website for the specific process.

Schedule an appointment at your local DMV office if your state uses an appointment system. Walk-ins are accepted in some places, but appointment slots often fill weeks in advance. At your appointment, bring all documents, complete the process form (usually available online or at the office), and pay the fee. You will have your photo taken and your signature recorded. Processing times vary by state but typically range from 5 to 15 business days.

Cost and How Long an EDL Lasts

An enhanced driver's license costs between $20 and $60 more than a standard Real ID license, depending on your state. In Washington, for example, an EDL costs about $65 total for an eight-year license, compared to about $45 for a standard Real ID. In New York, the difference is roughly $30. Check your state DMV website for the exact fee.

An EDL is valid for the same length of time as your regular driver's license — usually five to eight years depending on your state and age. When your EDL expires, you can renew it. Some states allow mail-in renewal for EDLs if you are over a certain age (often 60 or 65) and have no medical restrictions. First-time applicants and anyone under the age threshold must renew in person.

States That Offer Enhanced Driver's Licenses

The following states currently issue enhanced driver's licenses: Washington, Oregon, New York, Vermont, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Illinois, Wisconsin, Colorado, Delaware, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Maine, Oklahoma, and Washington D.C. A few other states have announced plans to offer them but have not yet launched the program.

If your state is not on this list, you cannot get an EDL there. Your alternative for crossing the land border into Canada or Mexico is a valid U.S. passport, passport card, or NEXUS card (if you are a frequent border crosser and meet the requirements). A standard Real ID driver's license is not sufficient for land border crossing, even though it meets federal identification standards for domestic air travel.

Renewing Your Enhanced Driver's License

Renewal rules depend on your state and your age. In many states, if you are 60 or older and have no medical conditions that restrict your driving, you can renew your EDL by mail. You will need to submit your current EDL, a completed renewal form, and the renewal fee. Processing typically takes 5 to 10 business days.

If you are under the age threshold for mail renewal, or if your state does not offer mail renewal for EDLs, you must renew in person at the DMV. You will need to bring your current EDL, proof of address, and the renewal fee. You will have a new photo taken. You do not need to re-submit citizenship documents unless your state specifically requires it — check your state DMV website to confirm.

What to Do If Your State Does Not Offer EDLs

If you live in a state that does not issue enhanced driver's licenses and you need to cross the land border into Canada or Mexico, a U.S. passport or passport card is your best option. A passport card is smaller and cheaper than a full passport book — it costs about $130 and is valid for 10 years — and it works for land and sea border crossings but not air travel.

If you cross the border frequently and want to skip the standard inspection line, you can explore for a NEXUS card through U.S. Customs and Border Protection. NEXUS costs $120 for five years and requires an in-person interview at a NEXUS enrollment center. It is available to U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents who meet background requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Yes. An EDL meets Real ID standards, so it is accepted at TSA checkpoints for domestic flights. You do not need a passport for domestic air travel if you have an EDL or any other Real ID-compliant ID.

What if I lost my enhanced driver's license?

Report the loss to your state DMV and request a replacement. You will need to visit the DMV in person, bring proof of citizenship and address, and pay a replacement fee (usually $10 to $30). Processing takes 5 to 15 business days. You do not need to re-submit your original citizenship documents unless your state requires it.

Can I get an enhanced driver's license if I am not a U.S. citizen?

Yes, if you are a lawful permanent resident (green card holder). You will need to bring your green card or a certificate of lawful permanent residence along with the other required documents. Temporary visa holders cannot get an EDL.

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

An EDL typically costs $20 to $60 more than a standard Real ID license. The exact difference depends on your state. Check your state DMV website for the current fee.

Do I need an enhanced driver's license to cross the border?

No. You can also use a valid U.S. passport, passport card, NEXUS card, or SENTRI card. An EDL is straightforward a more convenient option if you already need a driver's license and want to avoid carrying a separate passport.