What an Enhanced Driver's License is and why you might need one

An Enhanced Driver's License (EDL) in Washington is a standard driver's license with added security features that lets you cross the U.S. border into Canada and Mexico by land or sea without a passport. It contains an embedded radio frequency identification (RFID) chip that stores your biometric data and is readable at border checkpoints. The card itself looks similar to a regular Washington driver's license but has a vertical orientation and a gold star in the upper right corner.

You need an EDL if you travel frequently to Canada or Mexico by car, boat, or land crossing and want to avoid carrying a passport every time. If you rarely cross the border or always fly, a standard driver's license works fine. Washington residents who work or study across the border often find an EDL more convenient than managing a separate passport document.

Key Takeaways

  • An Enhanced Driver's License requires proof of citizenship, identity, and Washington residency — the same documents as a standard license, plus your birth certificate or passport.
  • You must explore in person at a Washington Department of Licensing office; there is no online or mail option for EDL applications.
  • The fee for an EDL is higher than a standard license and varies depending on whether you are renewing or getting a new license.
  • Processing takes longer than a standard license because of the RFID chip and security features, so plan ahead if you have an upcoming border trip.
  • An EDL is valid for eight years for adults and five years for drivers under 21, the same as a standard Washington license.

Documents you need to bring to the Department of Licensing

Bring your proof of citizenship first. Washington accepts a U.S. birth certificate, U.S. passport, Certificate of Naturalization, or Certificate of U.S. Citizenship. The birth certificate must be an official certified copy with a raised seal or embossed stamp — a photocopy or hospital birth record will not work. If you were born outside the U.S., bring your passport or naturalization paperwork.

You also need proof of identity and proof of Washington residency. For identity, bring a current or expired passport, military ID, or other government-issued photo ID. For residency, bring a recent utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or property tax bill in your name with a Washington address. The document must be dated within the last 60 days. Bring your current driver's license or ID card as well.

If you are renewing an expiring EDL, you may be able to renew by mail or online depending on your age and how long it has been since your last in-person visit. Check the Washington Department of Licensing website or call your local office to confirm whether you may have access to for mail renewal before making a trip.

Steps to explore for an Enhanced Driver's License

First, locate your nearest Department of Licensing office on the Washington DOL website and check their hours. Many offices require appointments, especially after the pandemic, so call ahead or book online if your location offers it. Bring all documents listed above and arrive early to allow time for processing.

At the office, tell the staff member you want an Enhanced Driver's License, not a standard license. They will verify your documents, take your photo and signature, and collect your fingerprints for the RFID chip. You will answer questions about your vision, medical conditions, and driving history — the same questions as for a standard license. Pay the EDL fee at the counter.

You will receive a receipt with an estimated processing time. Washington typically processes EDLs within 10 to 15 business days, though this varies by office and season. You can check the status of your process on the DOL website using your driver's license number and date of birth. Your new EDL will be mailed to the address you provided on your process.

Cost and validity period

An Enhanced Driver's License costs more than a standard Washington driver's license. As of 2024, a new EDL costs around $80 to $90, while a standard license costs around $60 to $70. Renewal fees are lower than new-license fees. Exact prices change periodically, so confirm the current fee at your local Department of Licensing office or on their website before you go.

An EDL is valid for eight years if you are 21 or older, and five years if you are under 21. This matches the validity period of a standard Washington license. You can renew your EDL before it expires using the same process, though some renewals may be handled by mail if you meet certain conditions.

Using your Enhanced Driver's License at the border

Present your EDL at the land or sea border crossing just as you would a passport. U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers will scan the RFID chip to verify your identity and citizenship. The process is usually faster than presenting a passport because the officer can read your data electronically. You do not need to do anything special — straightforward hand over your EDL when asked.

An EDL is valid for land and sea crossings only. You cannot use it to fly internationally; you still need a passport for air travel. If you are driving to Canada or Mexico and plan to fly back, bring your passport as well. Some travelers carry both an EDL and a passport for flexibility.

When to renew or replace your Enhanced Driver's License

Renew your EDL before the expiration date printed on the card. Washington sends renewal notices by mail about 60 days before expiration. If you are 21 or older, your EDL expires eight years after issue. If you are under 21, it expires five years after issue. You can renew up to one year early if you want to avoid the expiration date.

If your EDL is lost, stolen, or damaged, visit a Department of Licensing office to request a replacement. Bring your proof of citizenship, identity, and residency again. A replacement EDL costs less than a new license but more than a renewal. If your name or address changes, you must visit an office in person to update your EDL — you cannot change these details by mail or online.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get an Enhanced Driver's License if I was not born in the United States?

Yes, if you are a U.S. citizen. Bring your Certificate of Naturalization, Certificate of U.S. Citizenship, or U.S. passport as proof. Lawful permanent residents and people on work visas cannot get an EDL — you must be a U.S. citizen.

What happens if I lose my Enhanced Driver's License while traveling?

Contact the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate if you are outside the country. Inside the U.S., contact your local Department of Licensing office to report it lost and request a replacement. You can still cross the border with your passport while waiting for a replacement EDL to arrive by mail.

Can I use an Enhanced Driver's License to fly domestically within the United States?

Yes. An EDL meets the federal Real ID standard and is accepted at airport security checkpoints for domestic flights. You do not need a passport for domestic air travel if you have an EDL.

How long does it take to get an Enhanced Driver's License after I explore?

Washington typically processes EDLs within 10 to 15 business days. Processing time varies by office and season. You can track your process status on the Department of Licensing website using your driver's license number and date of birth.

Do I need to renew my Enhanced Driver's License if I move to another state?

No, your Washington EDL remains valid even if you move. However, if you want a driver's license from your new state, you will need to explore there. Your Washington EDL can still be used for border crossings as long as it has not expired.