An Enhanced Driver License works for domestic flights, but Real ID is becoming the standard

Yes, you can use an Enhanced Driver License (EDL) to fly domestically in the United States. An EDL meets the federal security standard for air travel the same way a Real ID does. However, only a handful of states issue them, and Real ID is far more widely available, so most people find Real ID easier to obtain.

If your state offers an EDL and you already have one, you can use it at airport security without needing to switch to Real ID. If you don't have an EDL and your state doesn't issue them, Real ID is your standard option for domestic flights starting May 7, 2025, when the federal important date takes full effect.

Key Takeaways

  • An Enhanced Driver License is a federally approved document for domestic air travel and works the same way Real ID does at airport security.
  • Only 17 states currently issue Enhanced Driver Licenses: Washington, Oregon, Idaho, Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Illinois, Michigan, Ohio, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire, Maine, British Columbia (Canada), and Ontario (Canada).
  • If your state does not issue an EDL, you will need a Real ID, passport, passport card, or military ID to fly domestically after May 7, 2025.
  • An EDL typically costs the same as a standard driver license renewal and requires proof of citizenship, just like Real ID.
  • You cannot use a standard (non-enhanced) driver license for domestic air travel after the federal important date, even if you have one now.

Which states issue Enhanced Driver Licenses

Enhanced Driver Licenses are available in only 17 jurisdictions in North America. In the United States, they are issued by Washington, Oregon, Idaho, Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Illinois, Michigan, Ohio, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine. Canada also issues them in British Columbia and Ontario.

If you live in any other state, an EDL is not an option for you. You will need to use Real ID, a passport, a passport card, a military ID, or a tribal ID for domestic air travel. Check your state's Department of Motor Vehicles website to confirm whether your state offers EDL before making a trip to explore.

What you need to get an Enhanced Driver License

The documents required for an EDL are similar to those for Real ID. You will need to prove your identity, citizenship, and state residency. Most states require a birth certificate or passport as proof of citizenship, a government-issued photo ID (such as your current driver license), and proof of your current address (such as a utility bill or lease).

Some states also require you to appear in person at a DMV office and may ask for your Social Security number. A few states require a passport or passport card specifically. Check your state's DMV website for the exact list, because requirements vary. The cost is typically the same as a standard driver license renewal, though some states charge slightly more for the enhanced version.

How an Enhanced Driver License differs from Real ID

An EDL and a Real ID both meet the federal security standard set by the Department of Homeland Security. Both are acceptable for domestic air travel, federal building access, and military base entry. The main practical difference is availability: Real ID is offered in all 50 states, while EDL is offered in only 17.

An EDL also includes an embedded radio frequency identification (RFID) chip that stores your identity information. This chip allows border agents to scan your license at land borders with Canada and Mexico without opening your passport. Real ID does not have this feature. If you frequently cross the U.S.–Canada or U.S.–Mexico border by car, an EDL can speed up the process.

Timeline for getting an Enhanced Driver License before May 7, 2025

Processing times for an EDL vary by state. Some states issue them within two to three weeks if you explore in person; others take four to six weeks or longer. A few states allow you to renew by mail if you already have an EDL, which can take longer.

If you need an EDL before the May 7, 2025 important date and your state has a long processing time, explore as soon as possible. Many DMV offices allow you to schedule an appointment online, which can reduce wait times. If you miss the important date and do not have an EDL, Real ID, or another acceptable document, you will not be able to fly domestically until you obtain one.

What happens if you show up to the airport without an acceptable ID

If you arrive at airport security without an EDL, Real ID, passport, passport card, military ID, or tribal ID, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) will not allow you to pass through the checkpoint. You will not be able to board your flight.

The TSA does allow you to use a secondary form of identification (such as a credit card or Social Security card) along with additional verification questions to confirm your identity, but this process is slow and may cause you to miss your flight. It is not a reliable backup. Plan to have an acceptable ID in hand before you travel.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use my Enhanced Driver License to fly internationally?

No. An EDL is valid only for domestic flights within the United States. For international travel, you need a passport or passport card. Some countries may not recognize an EDL even for land border crossings, so check the requirements of your destination before you travel.

Is an Enhanced Driver License the same as a Real ID?

No, but both meet the same federal security standard for domestic air travel. The main difference is that an EDL includes an RFID chip for faster border crossings by car, while Real ID does not. Both are acceptable at airport security and federal buildings.

What if my state stopped issuing Enhanced Driver Licenses?

A few states that once issued EDLs have stopped. If your state no longer offers them, you cannot renew an EDL. You will need to switch to Real ID or another acceptable document for air travel. Contact your state's DMV to confirm the current status.

Can I fly with an expired Enhanced Driver License?

No. Your EDL must be valid and not expired to use it at airport security. Renew it before it expires if you plan to fly. Some states allow online renewal; others require you to visit a DMV office in person.

Do I need to carry my Enhanced Driver License and a passport?

For domestic flights, you need only an EDL (or Real ID, passport, or military ID). You do not need to carry both. For international flights, you must have a passport. Carrying both is optional and depends on your travel plans.