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What Is an Enhanced Driver’s License? Understanding Its Purpose and Benefits

Discover the purpose and benefits of an Enhanced Driver’s License (EDL). Learn how it differs from a standard license and its travel advantages.

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Many Americans use a driver's license for more than just driving. It's an important form of identification, whether you're traveling, starting a new job, or applying for a loan. You may have heard that as of May 7, 2025, all Americans will require a REAL ID-compliant license in order to pass through airport security for domestic flights. But you may not have heard of an Enhanced Driver's License (EDL).

This special license affords both driving privileges and travel privileges that go beyond the REAL ID. But what exactly is an enhanced driver's license and what is it good for? We answer that and more below.

What Is an Enhanced Driver's License?

An EDL is a state-issued driver's license that provides proof of identity and U.S. citizenship when crossing the American border in a vehicle. This identification document is compliant with travel rules set by the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI). As such, they permit both land and sea border crossings between the U.S. and Canada, Mexico, or the Caribbean without the need of a passport.

EDLs are available in five states:

  • Michigan
  • Minnesota
  • New York
  • Vermont
  • Washington

The Enhanced Driver's License looks like a standard license but has the word "Enhanced" on it.

Key Features of an Enhanced Driver's License

An EDL is just like a driver's license in some ways but, like the name suggests, it has some added benefits.

Seamless Cross-Border Travel

The primary benefit of an EDL is that it is an acceptable document for entry into Canada, Mexico, and Caribbean nations. It serves as proof of citizenship at a road border crossing or a port of entry, making it a low cost, convenient alternative to a passport. 

Compliance With the REAL ID Act

Starting May 7, 2025, all Americans will need a REAL ID for domestic or international airline travel. This act is designed to raise minimum security standards at airports. An EDL is a REAL-ID compliant license.

Incorporation of RFID-Blocking Technology

Thieves and scammers have gotten more sophisticated, commonly using Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology to scan identification cards to steal people's information. To protect against this Enhanced driver's licenses come with a shielded sleeve that prevents unauthorized access to the RFID chip embedded within the license. Moreover, the RFID chip within an EDL has a unique ID number linked to a secure Department of Homeland Security (DHS) database so there's no personally identifiable information stored on the license itself.

Benefits of an Enhanced Driver's License

In addition to the features already mentioned, there are a few key benefits of an enhanced driver's license.

Access to Domestic Flights

As a REAL ID-compliant license, EDLs will allow you continued access to domestic flights after the May 2025 deadline. You must still use a passport or other acceptable document to fly internationally, but if you're on a cruise in Mexico or the Caribbean, you may use an EDL in lieu of a passport or passport card.

Entry to Federal Facilities

State-issued EDLs can be used to access a federal facility for official purposes. So, if you don't have an official federal government ID, an EDL will still get you into federal buildings.

Eligibility Requirements for an Enhanced Driver's License

Despite the federal benefits, EDLs are not issued by federal agencies. These are state-issued IDs and are only available to residents of Michigan, Minnesota, New York, Vermont, and Washington. The core eligibility requirements are:

  • Be a U.S. or Canadian citizen

  • Live in a state or province that issues EDLs

  • Frequently cross the border

  • Be eligible for a REAL ID

Documentation Needed for an Enhanced Driver's License

The documentation you need to apply for an EDL is the same as a REAL ID. It may vary slightly by state, but generally you'll need:

  • Proof of identity: A document that shows your full legal name, like a social security card, U.S. passport, or birth certificate.

  • Proof of date of birth: Similar to above.

  • Proof of Social Security number: Similar to above.

  • Proof of address: Two documents to prove your current address, like a utility bill, lease, or mortgage.

Common Misconceptions About Enhanced Driver's Licenses

EDLs are valuable for individuals who travel frequently to Canada, Mexico, or the Caribbean by car or boat. However, they are not substitutes for a passport. You may not use an EDL to fly internationally to any country, including those adhering to the WHTI. You may only use an EDL to enter these participating countries through a road border crossing or a port of entry. Additionally, EDL's are not a substitute for an international driver's license, as they don't necessarily allow you to drive in all countries.

The Importance of Understanding EDLs for Travel and Identification

If you commute over the border or love to go on Caribbean cruises, an EDL may be a smart, cost-effective alternative to a passport. When you're considering license renewal and replacement, it's important to understand that EDLs are an option. If you want one, you can apply online.

For more help determining if an EDL is right for you and ensuring you have the right insurance to safely travel over the border, check out EverQuote's comparison tools. That way, you can compare car insurance quotes and ensure you have adequate coverage no matter where you travel.

FAQs

What is an US enhanced driver's license?
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An enhanced driver's license (EDL) is a state-issued identification document available in Michigan, Minnesota, New York, Vermont, and Washington. Not only does it prove your legal ability to operate a vehicle, but it also permits you to enter Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean by land or sea. As such, it may serve as a viable alternative to a passport for those who frequently cross the border.
Can you fly to Mexico with an enhanced license?
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No, you may not fly internationally with an EDL. Even though Mexico is a member of the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI), you may only use an EDL to enter at a land crossing or port of entry.
Does California have an enhanced driver's license?
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No, California does not participate in the EDL program. The only states that issue EDLs are Michigan, Minnesota, New York, Vermont, and Washington.