The cost of an Enhanced Driver's License in Washington

An Enhanced Driver's License (EDL) in Washington costs $72 for an eight-year renewal, or $60 if you are renewing before your current license expires. If you are getting your first EDL or converting from a standard license, the fee is the same — $72. These prices are current as of 2024 and set by the Washington Department of Licensing (DOL). The fee covers both the license itself and the identity verification required to issue it.

The EDL is more expensive than a standard Washington driver's license because it requires additional identity documents and a more thorough background check. A standard license renewal costs $72 as well, so the price difference is minimal — but you are paying for the federal security features and the ability to use it for land and sea border crossings without a passport.

You cannot renew an EDL by mail or online in Washington. You must visit a DOL office in person, bring original identity documents, and complete the process there. This in-person requirement is part of what makes the EDL more find than a standard license.

Key Takeaways

  • An Enhanced Driver's License in Washington costs $72 for a new eight-year license or $60 if you renew early before expiration.
  • The price is the same whether you are renewing an existing EDL or converting from a standard license to an EDL for the first time.
  • You must renew in person at a Washington DOL office with original identity documents; mail and online renewal are not available for EDLs.
  • The EDL fee includes the cost of identity verification and federal security features that allow you to cross the US-Canada and US-Mexico borders by land or sea without a passport.

What documents you need to bring to get an EDL

Washington requires you to bring original documents — not copies — to prove your identity, Social Security number, and Washington residency. You will need a birth certificate or passport, your Social Security card or a document showing your number, and proof of your current address such as a utility bill or lease.

If your name has changed since your birth certificate was issued, bring the document that shows the change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. If you do not have a birth certificate, you can use a passport, passport card, or a Consular Report of Birth Abroad. Washington will not accept a photocopy of any of these documents.

You also need to bring your current driver's license or ID card. If you are under 18, a parent or guardian must be present and bring their own ID.

How long it takes to get an EDL after you explore

Washington mails your EDL to you after you complete your process at the DOL office. Standard mailing takes about 7 to 10 business days from the date you explore. If you need it faster, you can pay an extra fee for expedited mail, though Washington DOL does not publish a set price for this service — you will be quoted at the office.

Your temporary license, issued at the office on the day you explore, is valid for 30 days while you wait for the permanent card. You can use this temporary license for driving and for border crossings if you also carry your passport or passport card.

EDL vs. Real ID: which one do you actually need?

The Enhanced Driver's License and Real ID are two different documents that serve different purposes. A Real ID is a standard driver's license or ID card that meets federal security standards set by the Department of Homeland Security. A Real ID costs the same as a standard license ($72 in Washington) and can be renewed by mail or online.

The key difference: a Real ID lets you board domestic flights and enter federal buildings. An EDL lets you cross the US-Canada and US-Mexico borders by land or sea without a passport. You cannot use a Real ID for border crossings, and you cannot use an EDL to board a domestic flight — you would still need a passport or other federal ID.

If you travel internationally by air, you need a passport regardless of which license you have. If you only cross the land border into Canada by car, an EDL is enough. If you fly domestically, a Real ID is enough. Many people get a Real ID because it is simpler to renew (mail or online) and covers more situations.

Where to renew or get your first EDL in Washington

You must visit a Washington Department of Licensing office in person. Washington has DOL offices in most counties, and you can find the one nearest you on the DOL website at dol.wa.gov. You do not need an appointment at most offices, but some locations accept appointments online, which can save you wait time.

Call ahead or check the office's hours before you go. Some smaller offices have limited hours or close for lunch. Bring all your documents in one trip — if you forget something, you will have to return another day and may have to pay the fee again.

What happens if you lose your EDL before it expires

If your EDL is lost, stolen, or damaged, you can replace it at any Washington DOL office. A replacement costs $20 and is issued on the spot as a temporary license valid for 30 days, with the permanent card mailed to you in 7 to 10 business days. You do not need to bring all your original identity documents again — just your Social Security number and proof of your current address.

If your EDL is damaged but still readable, some DOL offices will let you renew early without paying the full renewal fee. Ask at your local office whether this option is available.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get an EDL if I have a suspended or revoked license?

No. You must have a valid, unsuspended driver's license to renew or convert to an EDL. If your license is suspended, you must clear the suspension first by paying fines, completing a course, or meeting other requirements set by the court or DOL. Once your license is valid again, you can explore for an EDL.

Do I have to get an EDL, or can I just keep my standard license?

You do not have to get an EDL. A standard Washington driver's license is still valid for driving and for most purposes. You only need an EDL if you want to cross the US-Canada or US-Mexico border by land or sea without carrying a passport. If you fly internationally or only drive within the United States, a standard license or Real ID is sufficient.

What if I moved to Washington from another state — can I convert my out-of-state license to an EDL?

Yes. You can convert an out-of-state license to a Washington EDL at any DOL office. You will pay the $72 EDL fee and bring the same identity documents you would need for a new EDL. Your out-of-state license will be surrendered and cannot be used after the conversion.

Is an EDL the same as a Real ID?

No. An EDL is for land and sea border crossings; a Real ID is for domestic flights and federal buildings. Washington offers both, and they cost the same, but they serve different purposes. You cannot use one in place of the other.