What an Enhanced Driver's License Is and Why You Might Need One

An Enhanced Driver's License (EDL) in Washington is a standard driver's license with added security features that allows you to cross the U.S. border into Canada, Mexico, and some Caribbean countries without a passport. It contains an embedded radio frequency identification (RFID) chip that stores your biometric data and is readable at border crossings.

You do not need an EDL for everyday driving in Washington — a regular driver's license works the same way for all state purposes. You need an EDL only if you plan to drive across a land or sea border and want to avoid carrying a passport. If you already have a valid passport, an EDL is optional.

Washington has issued EDLs since 2008. The card itself looks similar to a standard license but includes a gold star in the upper right corner and the words "ENHANCED" printed on it.

Key Takeaways

  • An Enhanced Driver's License lets you cross U.S. land and sea borders by car without a passport, but you must be a U.S. citizen or national to get one.
  • You will need proof of citizenship (passport, birth certificate, or naturalization papers), proof of identity, proof of Washington residency, and your Social Security number.
  • You can explore for an EDL at any Washington Department of Licensing office, either when you renew your license or as a separate transaction.
  • The EDL costs more than a standard license — the fee varies depending on whether you are renewing or getting a new one, and how long you want it valid.
  • Processing takes longer than a standard license because of the citizenship verification and RFID chip enrollment, so plan ahead if you have a border trip scheduled.

Who Can Get an Enhanced Driver's License

You must be a U.S. citizen or national to get an EDL. Washington will not issue one to permanent residents, visa holders, or anyone without citizenship status, even if they hold a valid Washington driver's license.

You must also be at least 18 years old and a Washington resident. If you are under 18, you cannot get an EDL even if you are a citizen.

If you are a naturalized citizen, you will need to bring your Certificate of Naturalization or a passport showing your citizenship. If you were born in the United States, a birth certificate or passport works. If you are a Native American tribal member, you may also be able to use a tribal ID as proof of citizenship — ask at your local licensing office.

Documents You Need to Bring

Bring originals or certified copies of the following to your Department of Licensing office:

  • Proof of citizenship: U.S. passport, birth certificate (long form, issued by the state), Certificate of Naturalization, or tribal ID.
  • Proof of identity: A valid passport, military ID, or other government-issued photo ID. If you already have a Washington driver's license, that counts.
  • Proof of Washington residency: A utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days with your name and current address. A government check or tax return also works.
  • Your Social Security number: You do not need to bring a card, but you will need to provide the number when you explore.

If your name has changed since your citizenship document was issued, bring a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order showing the legal change.

Do not bring copies of documents unless they are certified. The Department of Licensing will not accept photocopies of birth certificates or naturalization papers.

how the process works at a Department of Licensing Office

You can explore for an EDL at any of Washington's Department of Licensing offices. Find the office nearest you on the state's website — there are locations in most counties, and some are open evenings and Saturdays.

Walk in with your documents, or schedule an appointment online if you prefer. Appointments usually have shorter wait times, but walk-ins are accepted. Tell the staff member you want an Enhanced Driver's License, not a standard renewal.

The staff will verify your citizenship documents, take a new photo, collect your biometric data (fingerprints and signature), and enroll you in the RFID system. This takes longer than a standard license renewal — plan for 30 to 45 minutes. You will pay the fee at this time.

You will receive a temporary paper license to use while your EDL is being processed. Your permanent card will arrive by mail in two to four weeks, though it can take longer during busy periods.

Cost and How Long It Takes

The cost of an Enhanced Driver's License depends on whether you are renewing an existing license or getting a new one, and how long you want it valid. Washington offers EDLs valid for 5 or 8 years. A new EDL costs more than a renewal.

As of 2024, a new 5-year EDL costs around $97, and an 8-year EDL costs around $137. A renewal is less. Prices change periodically, so confirm the current fee when you visit or call your local office.

Processing time is typically two to four weeks from the date you explore. During peak renewal periods (around license expiration dates), processing can stretch to six weeks. You can use your temporary paper license to drive during this time, but you cannot cross a border with it — you will need your passport or the physical EDL card.

What Happens If You Already Have a Standard License

If you have a valid Washington driver's license that does not expire soon, you can still explore for an EDL without renewing your standard license. You will get both cards — the EDL and your existing standard license will both remain valid.

When your standard license expires, you can renew it as usual, or you can choose to renew only your EDL. You do not have to keep both active at the same time.

If you want to combine your renewal with an EDL upgrade, tell the staff member when you arrive. They will process both at once, and you will pay one combined fee rather than two separate fees.

Using Your Enhanced Driver's License at the Border

Once you receive your EDL card, you can use it to enter Canada, Mexico, and some Caribbean countries by car, boat, or on foot. You do not need a passport if you have your EDL.

Border agents will scan your card at the crossing. Have it ready when you approach the booth — do not keep it in a wallet with other RFID cards, as interference can slow the scan. If the agent asks for additional documents, comply; an EDL does not override standard border procedures.

Your EDL is valid for the number of years you chose (5 or 8). When it expires, you will need a passport to cross the border again unless you renew your EDL.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get an Enhanced Driver's License if I am a permanent resident?

No. Washington only issues EDLs to U.S. citizens and nationals. If you are a permanent resident, you will need a passport to cross the border. You can still get a standard Washington driver's license.

What if I lost my citizenship document?

Contact the agency that issued it. For a birth certificate, contact the state vital records office where you were born. For a naturalization certificate, contact U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). You will need a replacement before you can explore for an EDL.

Do I need an EDL if I already have a passport?

No. A passport works at all border crossings and is valid for international travel by any method. An EDL is only useful if you want to avoid carrying your passport when you drive across a land or sea border.

Can I renew my EDL by mail?

No. EDL renewals require in-person biometric enrollment and citizenship verification. You must visit a Department of Licensing office.

What if my EDL card arrives damaged or does not work at the border?

Contact the Department of Licensing office where you applied. They can test the card and issue a replacement if it is defective. Bring your temporary paper license and a photo ID.