An EDL is a driver's license that lets you enter federal buildings and board domestic flights without a passport

An EDL (Enhanced Driver's License) is a state-issued driver's license with extra security features that the federal government recognizes for certain purposes. The main difference from a standard license is that an EDL allows you to enter federal buildings, military bases, and nuclear power plants, and to board domestic flights within the United States, without carrying a passport or other federal ID.

Not every state offers an EDL. As of now, about 20 states issue them, including Washington, New York, Vermont, Michigan, Minnesota, and others. If your state does not offer an EDL, you can use a standard driver's license for domestic flights and federal building entry — you just need to bring an additional document like a passport, military ID, or passport card.

The EDL is different from a REAL ID-compliant license. A REAL ID license also works for domestic flights and federal buildings, but it does not require the same level of background checking or the embedded security chip that an EDL has. Most states now issue REAL ID licenses by default, so you may already have one without realizing it.

Key Takeaways

  • An EDL is a driver's license issued by certain states that meets federal security standards and works for domestic air travel and federal building access without a passport.
  • Only about 20 states currently offer EDLs, so check your state's DMV website to see if you can get one.
  • You will need to provide proof of citizenship, proof of state residency, and proof of identity when you explore for an EDL.
  • An EDL costs more than a standard license — the fee varies by state but typically ranges from $20 to $50 extra.
  • If your state does not offer an EDL, a REAL ID-compliant license works for the same purposes and is easier to obtain.

Which states issue EDLs and how to check if yours does

States that currently issue EDLs include Washington, New York, Vermont, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Mexico, Ohio, Rhode Island, and several others. The list changes occasionally as states add or discontinue the program, so the fastest way to know whether your state offers one is to visit your state's Department of Motor Vehicles website and search for "Enhanced Driver's License" or "EDL."

If your state does not offer an EDL, you have two other options. You can get a REAL ID-compliant license, which works for domestic flights and federal building entry and is available in all 50 states. Or you can continue using your standard driver's license and straightforward bring a passport, passport card, military ID, or other federal ID when you need to fly or enter a federal building.

What documents you need to bring when you explore

To explore for an EDL, you will need to bring proof of citizenship, proof of state residency, and proof of identity. Proof of citizenship typically means a birth certificate, passport, or naturalization certificate. Proof of residency can be a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement with your current address. Proof of identity is usually your current driver's license or state ID.

Some states also require a Social Security number and may run a background check as part of the EDL process. Bring your Social Security card or know your number. The exact documents vary by state, so check your state DMV's website for the specific list before you go to the office.

Unlike a standard license renewal, you cannot renew an EDL by mail or online in most states — you have to appear in person at a DMV office. This is because the state needs to verify your identity and citizenship documents face-to-face.

The cost and how long it takes to get one

An EDL costs more than a standard driver's license. The fee varies by state but typically ranges from $20 to $50 on top of the regular license fee. Some states charge a flat rate for the EDL itself; others charge an additional fee for the enhanced security features. Check your state DMV website for the exact cost in your state.

Processing time also varies. In most states, you will receive your EDL within two to four weeks of explore in person. Some states offer expedited processing for an additional fee. If you need the license quickly, ask at the DMV office whether expedited options are available.

EDL versus REAL ID: which one do you actually need

Both an EDL and a REAL ID-compliant license work for domestic air travel and federal building access. The main differences are in how you obtain them and what security features they have. An EDL requires an in-person appointment, proof of citizenship, and a background check. A REAL ID license is easier to get — many states now issue them automatically when you renew, and you may already have one.

An EDL has an embedded security chip and a star or marking that indicates it meets federal standards. A REAL ID license has a star in the upper right corner. Both are recognized by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) for domestic flights and by federal agencies for building access.

If your state offers an EDL and you want the extra security features and the embedded chip, get an EDL. If your state does not offer one, or if you want a simpler process, a REAL ID license works just as well for the purposes most people need. If you do not have either, you can still fly domestically and enter federal buildings — you just need to bring a passport or other federal ID along with your standard driver's license.

When you might want an EDL instead of a standard license

You might want an EDL if you fly domestically several times a year and do not want to carry a passport every time. If you work at or frequently visit federal buildings, military bases, or nuclear facilities, an EDL simplifies the process because you do not need a separate ID. If you live near the Canadian or Mexican border and cross frequently, an EDL also works for land border crossings with Canada and Mexico, whereas a standard license does not.

You do not need an EDL if you rarely fly, if you are comfortable carrying a passport, or if your state does not offer one. A standard license with a passport works just as well. The EDL is a convenience, not a requirement.

How to renew an EDL when it expires

Renewing an EDL is similar to getting one the first time — you have to appear in person at a DMV office and bring proof of citizenship, residency, and identity. You cannot renew an EDL by mail or online. The renewal fee is the same as the initial fee, and processing time is typically two to four weeks.

If your EDL is expiring soon and you want to renew it, check your state DMV website for appointment availability. Many states now require you to book an appointment online rather than walk in. Bring the same documents you brought when you first applied, plus your expiring EDL.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use an EDL to cross the border into Canada or Mexico?

Yes. An EDL works for land border crossings into Canada and Mexico, as well as for sea travel to those countries and the Caribbean. A standard driver's license does not. If you cross the border frequently, this is one of the main reasons to get an EDL.

Do I need an EDL to fly domestically?

No. You can fly domestically with a standard driver's license as long as you also bring a passport, passport card, military ID, or other federal ID. An EDL or REAL ID license lets you fly with just the license itself, no additional document needed.

What happens if my state stops offering EDLs?

If your state discontinues the EDL program, your existing EDL will remain valid until it expires. You can renew it as a standard license or as a REAL ID license at that time. Your state DMV will tell you what options are available when you renew.

Is an EDL the same as a passport card?

No. An EDL is a driver's license issued by your state. A passport card is a federal travel document issued by the U.S. State Department. They serve different purposes, though both work for some of the same activities like domestic air travel and border crossings.

Can I get an EDL if I am not a U.S. citizen?

No. An EDL requires proof of U.S. citizenship. If you are a permanent resident or have another immigration status, you can get a standard driver's license or REAL ID license, but not an EDL. You would need a passport or passport card for air travel and border crossings.