An Enhanced License is a Real ID-compliant driver's license that also works for entry into federal buildings and military bases

Washington's Enhanced License (EL) is a single document that combines two things: it meets the federal Real ID Act requirement for domestic air travel and federal building access, and it also serves as a travel document for land and sea border crossings into Canada and Mexico without a passport. You do not need both an Enhanced License and a Real ID standard license — the Enhanced License does the work of both.

The Enhanced License costs more than a standard Real ID license and requires additional documents to prove citizenship and identity. It is issued by the Washington Department of Licensing (DOL) and is valid for eight years for drivers 21 and older, or five years for drivers under 21.

Key Takeaways

  • An Enhanced License works for domestic air travel, federal building entry, and land or sea border crossings to Canada and Mexico without a passport.
  • The Enhanced License costs more than a standard Real ID license — the exact fee depends on whether you are renewing or getting a new license.
  • You must prove U.S. citizenship with a birth certificate, passport, or naturalization document, plus standard identity and residency documents.
  • Processing takes longer than a standard license because DOL verifies citizenship information with federal databases.
  • If you already have a standard Real ID license, you can upgrade to an Enhanced License at a DOL office without renewing your entire license.

What documents you need to get an Enhanced License

You must bring proof of U.S. citizenship, proof of identity, and proof of Washington residency. For citizenship, DOL accepts a U.S. birth certificate, U.S. passport, passport card, certificate of naturalization, or certificate of citizenship. The birth certificate must be an official certified copy with a raised seal or security features — a photocopy or hospital record will not work.

For identity, bring your current Washington driver's license or ID card, or a passport or passport card. For residency, bring a recent utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or property tax notice in your name with your current Washington address. All documents must be originals or certified copies; photocopies are not accepted.

You will also need your Social Security number. If you do not have one, you cannot get an Enhanced License — DOL uses it to verify citizenship with federal databases.

Cost and processing time for an Enhanced License

The fee for a new Enhanced License is higher than a standard Real ID license. If you are renewing an existing license and upgrading to Enhanced at the same time, the cost is one amount; if you are getting an Enhanced License for the first time on a new license, the cost is different. Check the current fee on the Washington DOL website, as fees change periodically and may vary depending on your age and license type.

Processing takes longer than a standard Real ID license because DOL must verify your citizenship information with federal agencies. Standard processing typically takes one to two weeks after you submit your process in person at a DOL office. You cannot renew an Enhanced License by mail or online — you must appear in person.

You will receive a temporary paper license at the office that is valid for 30 days while your permanent card is being made. The permanent Enhanced License arrives by mail.

Where to explore for an Enhanced License in Washington

You must explore in person at a Washington Department of Licensing office. Find the office nearest you on the DOL website by entering your city or ZIP code. Some offices are busier than others; calling ahead or checking wait times online can help you plan your visit.

Bring all required documents and your Social Security number. The staff member will verify your documents, take your photo and signature, and process your process on the spot. You will pay the fee at that time and receive your temporary paper license before you leave.

Upgrading from a standard Real ID license to Enhanced

If you already have a standard Real ID driver's license or ID card, you can upgrade to an Enhanced License without waiting for your current license to expire. You still must visit a DOL office in person and bring proof of U.S. citizenship, but you do not need to renew your entire license.

The upgrade fee is lower than the cost of a new Enhanced License. Your current license will be replaced with the Enhanced License, and you will receive a new card valid for eight years (or five years if you are under 21). The temporary paper license is valid for 30 days while your permanent card is made.

What you can use an Enhanced License for

An Enhanced License works as your primary ID for domestic air travel within the United States. You can use it at airport security checkpoints in place of a passport or Real ID standard license. It also works for entry into federal buildings, federal courthouses, and military installations that require Real ID-compliant identification.

For travel, an Enhanced License serves as a travel document for land and sea border crossings into Canada and Mexico. You do not need a passport to cross the border by car, bus, or boat if you have an Enhanced License. However, if you are traveling by air to Canada or Mexico, you still need a passport — the Enhanced License does not replace a passport for air travel outside the United States.

Real ID compliance and the Enhanced License

An Enhanced License is fully Real ID-compliant. If you have an Enhanced License, you meet the federal requirement for domestic air travel and federal building access. You do not need to get a separate Real ID standard license.

The Real ID Act, passed by Congress in 2005, set security standards for state-issued driver's licenses and ID cards. Starting in May 2025, a Real ID-compliant license or ID is required for domestic air travel and entry into federal buildings. An Enhanced License satisfies this requirement and adds the border crossing benefit on top.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use an Enhanced License to fly to Canada or Mexico?

No. An Enhanced License works for land and sea border crossings, but air travel to any country outside the United States requires a passport. If you fly to Canada or Mexico, bring your passport to the airport.

What if my birth certificate is from another country?

A foreign birth certificate does not work. You must have a U.S. birth certificate, U.S. passport, certificate of naturalization, or certificate of citizenship. If you were born outside the U.S. and are a naturalized citizen, bring your certificate of naturalization.

Can I renew my Enhanced License by mail?

No. All Enhanced License applications and renewals must be done in person at a Washington DOL office. You cannot renew online or by mail, even if you already have an Enhanced License.

How long is an Enhanced License valid?

An Enhanced License is valid for eight years if you are 21 or older, or five years if you are under 21. The expiration date is printed on the front of your card.

What is the difference between an Enhanced License and a Real ID standard license?

Both are Real ID-compliant and work for domestic air travel and federal building access. The Enhanced License also works as a travel document for land and sea border crossings to Canada and Mexico without a passport. The Enhanced License costs more and requires proof of citizenship; a standard Real ID license does not.