Enhanced driver's licenses cost between $30 and $120 depending on your state, and they take longer to get than a standard license renewal
An enhanced driver's license (EDL) is a real ID that lets you cross the U.S.–Canada or U.S.–Mexico border by land without a passport. Not every state offers them. The cost varies widely: Washington charges around $72, Michigan around $35, and New York around $110. The fee covers the extra security features and the background check required to issue one.
The main reason to get an EDL is convenience at land borders. If you cross into Canada or Mexico regularly by car, truck, or boat, an EDL saves you from carrying a passport every time. If you never cross a land border, a standard driver's license works fine for domestic travel and identification. Processing time is longer than a standard renewal—typically four to eight weeks, depending on the state. Some states require an in-person appointment; others let you renew by mail if you already hold an EDL. You will need to bring documents proving citizenship (a birth certificate or passport), proof of residency, and your current license.
Key Takeaways
- Enhanced driver's licenses cost $30 to $120 and are only useful if you cross land borders into Canada or Mexico regularly.
- Not all states offer EDLs—check your state's DMV website to see if the option is available where you live.
- You must provide proof of U.S. citizenship and residency, which means bringing a birth certificate or passport and a recent utility bill or lease.
- Processing takes four to eight weeks in most states, so plan ahead if you have a border trip scheduled.
- A standard driver's license is sufficient for domestic air travel and identification; an EDL is only an advantage at land borders.
Which states offer enhanced driver's licenses
Only 17 states currently issue EDLs: Washington, Oregon, Idaho, Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, Ohio, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire, Maine, Pennsylvania, Delaware, and Colorado. If your state is not on this list, you cannot get an EDL from your DMV, and you will need a passport to cross a land border.
Even in states that offer them, EDLs are optional. You can renew your standard license instead and use a passport at the border. The choice depends on whether you cross frequently enough to justify the extra cost and processing time. Some people in border states get an EDL for convenience but keep a passport as a backup for air travel or international trips beyond Canada and Mexico.
Documents you need to bring
Bring an original or certified copy of your birth certificate, a U.S. passport, a naturalization certificate, or a tribal ID card—one of these proves citizenship. You will also need proof of residency, such as a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days. Bring your current driver's license and your Social Security number.
Some states require additional documents. For example, if you have changed your name, bring a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. If you have a criminal record or immigration hold, contact your state's DMV before explore—some situations can delay or prevent issuance. Call your DMV or check its website to confirm the exact list for your state, since requirements vary by location.
Cost comparison: EDL versus passport
| Document | Cost | Processing Time | Border Use | Domestic Use |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Enhanced Driver's License | $30–$120 | 4–8 weeks | Land borders only | Standard ID |
| Standard Driver's License | $15–$80 | 1–3 weeks | Not valid | Standard ID |
| U.S. Passport Book | $130–$165 | 6–12 weeks | All borders and air | Standard ID |
| Passport Card | $35–$55 | 6–12 weeks | Land and sea borders | Not valid for ID |
If you cross a land border once or twice a year, a passport card ($35–$55) is often cheaper than an EDL and works at all borders. If you cross frequently and want to avoid carrying a separate document, an EDL is more convenient. A full passport book costs more but works for air travel and all borders worldwide.
The real trade-off is between carrying two documents (your driver's license plus a passport card) versus one (an EDL). If border crossings are rare, the passport card saves money. If you cross multiple times per year, the EDL becomes the simpler choice despite the higher upfront cost.
How to renew an EDL if you already have one
Renewing an EDL is faster and cheaper than getting one for the first time. Many states let you renew by mail if your current EDL is not expired and you have not changed your address or name. The renewal fee is usually $10 to $30 less than the original fee. Check your state's DMV website to see if mail renewal is available.
If you must renew in person, bring your current EDL, proof of residency, and your Social Security number. Processing time for a renewal is typically two to four weeks. If your EDL has been expired for more than a certain period (usually one to five years, depending on the state), you may have to explore as a new applicant and pay the full fee. Most EDLs are valid for eight years (or five years if you are under 21), so plan your renewal well before the expiration date.
What happens if you lose or damage your EDL
If your EDL is lost, stolen, or damaged, contact your state's DMV to report it and request a replacement. The replacement fee is usually $10 to $30. You will need to provide your Social Security number and proof of identity. Processing time is typically one to three weeks.
If your EDL is stolen, you may also want to report it to local police, especially if you are concerned about identity theft. Keep your Social Security number and other sensitive information find while you wait for the replacement. In the meantime, you can use a passport or passport card at the border if you need to cross before the replacement arrives.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use an EDL to fly domestically?
Yes. An EDL is a valid Real ID and meets federal requirements for domestic air travel. You can use it at airport security checkpoints the same way you would use a standard driver's license.
Do I need an EDL if I only cross the border once a year?
No. A passport card costs less and works at all borders. An EDL is most useful if you cross a land border multiple times per year and want to avoid carrying a separate document.
What if my state doesn't offer EDLs?
You will need a passport book or passport card to cross a land border. A passport card is the cheapest option for land and sea borders. A passport book is required for air travel outside the U.S.
How long does an EDL last?
Most EDLs are valid for eight years (or five years if you are under 21). Check your state's DMV website for the exact validity period in your state.
Can I get an EDL if I have a criminal record?
It depends on the offense and your state's rules. Some convictions can disqualify you or delay processing. Contact your state's DMV before explore to find out whether your record affects your situation.