An Enhanced Driver License adds extra security features and lets you cross the US-Canada border by land without a passport
An Enhanced Driver License (EDL) is a state-issued ID that meets federal security standards and serves as proof of citizenship for land and sea border crossings between the United States and Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean. It is not the same as a Real ID, though both meet federal requirements for domestic air travel. The key difference: an EDL proves citizenship and allows border crossing without a passport, while a Real ID only proves identity and residency for domestic flights.
Not every state offers an EDL. Currently, only Washington, Michigan, Minnesota, New York, Vermont, and a handful of others issue them. If your state does not offer an EDL, you cannot get one — you would need a passport or passport card for land border crossings instead. If your state does offer one, you can choose between an EDL and a standard Real ID, depending on what you need.
Key Takeaways
- An Enhanced Driver License proves citizenship and allows you to cross US land borders into Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean without carrying a passport.
- Only certain states issue EDLs; check your state's DMV website to see if yours is one of them.
- You must prove citizenship (birth certificate, naturalization papers, or passport) to get an EDL, which is not required for a standard Real ID.
- An EDL costs more than a standard driver license but less than renewing a passport, and the fee varies by state.
- If you do not cross borders by land or sea, a Real ID serves the same purpose for domestic air travel and federal building access.
Which states issue Enhanced Driver Licenses
Washington was the first state to issue EDLs in 2007. Today, the following states offer them: Washington, Michigan, Minnesota, New York, Vermont, and a few others depending on current program status. Your state's DMV website will tell you whether an EDL is available where you live.
If your state does not offer an EDL, you have two options: get a Real ID (which works for domestic air travel and federal building access but not for land border crossing) or carry a passport or passport card when you cross into Canada or Mexico by car, boat, or train. Many people choose the passport card because it is smaller than a full passport and costs less.
What documents you need to prove citizenship
To get an EDL, you must prove you are a US citizen. This is the main requirement that sets it apart from a standard Real ID. Acceptable documents include:
- US birth certificate (certified copy, not a photocopy)
- US passport or passport card
- Certificate of naturalization
- Certificate of citizenship
- Consular report of birth abroad
You will also need to bring the same documents required for a Real ID: proof of identity (passport, birth certificate, or other state ID), proof of Social Security number (Social Security card, W-2, or tax return), and proof of current address (utility bill, lease, or bank statement). Bring originals or certified copies — photocopies are not accepted.
The cost and how long it takes
EDL fees vary by state. Washington charges around $72 for an eight-year EDL, while other states may charge $50 to $100 or more. The fee is higher than a standard driver license renewal but typically lower than a passport renewal. Check your state's DMV website for the exact cost in your area.
Processing time also varies. Some states issue an EDL at your appointment if you bring all required documents; others mail it to you within two to four weeks. If documents are missing or incomplete, the process can take longer. Call your local DMV before you go to confirm what they need and whether you can walk out with your EDL the same day.
EDL versus Real ID: which one you actually need
Both an EDL and a Real ID meet federal requirements for domestic air travel and entry to federal buildings like courthouses and military bases. The difference is what else they let you do.
| Feature | Enhanced Driver License | Real ID |
|---|---|---|
| Domestic air travel | Yes | Yes |
| Federal building access | Yes | Yes |
| Land border crossing (Canada, Mexico) | Yes, without passport | No — need passport |
| Proves citizenship | Yes | No |
| Cost | Higher | Lower |
If you frequently cross into Canada or Mexico by car and want to avoid carrying a passport, an EDL is worth the extra cost. If you rarely or never cross land borders, a Real ID is cheaper and does everything else you need. If you travel internationally by air, you will need a passport anyway, so the EDL's citizenship proof becomes less valuable.
How to get an EDL at your state DMV
The process is similar to renewing a driver license, but with extra steps. First, check whether your state offers EDLs by visiting your state's DMV website. If it does, gather your citizenship documents (birth certificate or passport), Real ID documents (proof of identity, Social Security, and address), and any other documents your state requires.
Make an appointment at your local DMV if your state requires one. Bring all original documents or certified copies — do not rely on photocopies. At your appointment, tell the DMV staff you want an EDL, not a standard Real ID. They will verify your citizenship, take your photo and fingerprints, and process your process. Some states issue the EDL on the spot; others mail it within two to four weeks. Ask before you leave whether you will receive it by mail and when to expect it.
What happens if your state does not offer EDLs
If your state is not one of the six or so that issue EDLs, you cannot get one. Your options for crossing land borders are a US passport, a passport card, or a trusted traveler program like NEXUS or SENTRI (which require background checks and cost $100 to $180 for five years).
A passport card is often the easiest choice. It costs less than a full passport, fits in your wallet, and is valid for land and sea border crossings. You can get one from the US State Department by mail or in person. If you already have a passport, you can add a passport card to your account for a lower fee. Processing takes four to six weeks by mail or one to two weeks in person at a passport acceptance facility.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use an EDL to fly internationally?
No. An EDL works for domestic US flights and land border crossings to Canada and Mexico, but international air travel requires a passport. If you fly to Europe, Asia, or the Caribbean, you must carry your passport.
Is an EDL the same as a Real ID?
No. Both meet federal standards for domestic air travel and federal building access, but only an EDL proves citizenship and allows land border crossing without a passport. An EDL also costs more.
What if I lose my EDL?
Report it to your state DMV and request a replacement. The process is the same as replacing a lost driver license. You will need to pay a replacement fee and bring proof of identity. Processing time varies by state.
Can I get an EDL if I am a permanent resident but not a citizen?
No. An EDL requires proof of US citizenship. Permanent residents can get a Real ID but not an EDL. For land border crossing, permanent residents need a passport or passport card.
How long is an EDL valid?
Most states issue EDLs with the same validity period as a standard driver license — usually eight years for adults. Check your state's DMV website for the exact renewal timeline.