Introduction
If you are a Washington resident and a U.S. citizen, you may be interested in getting an enhanced driver license (EDL) or an enhanced ID card (EID). These documents confirm your identity and U.S. citizenship, and can be used to enter the United States from Canada, Mexico, or the Caribbean through a land or sea port of entry. They also serve as your driver license and are an acceptable REAL ID document to use for air travel within the United States.
In this article, we will explain what an EDL is, how it differs from a standard driver license, what benefits it offers, and how to apply for one.
What is an EDL?
An EDL is a type of driver license that has a radio frequency identification (RFID) chip embedded in it. The RFID chip contains a unique number that links to your personal information stored in a secure database. When you approach a border crossing, the RFID chip is scanned by a reader that verifies your identity and citizenship without requiring you to show your passport or other documents.
An EDL also has a machine-readable zone (MRZ) on the back, which is similar to the one on your passport. The MRZ contains your name, date of birth, gender, country code, document number, and expiration date. The MRZ can be read by optical scanners at border crossings or airports.
An EDL has a star symbol on the upper right corner, which indicates that it meets the federal REAL ID standards. This means that you can use it as an acceptable form of identification for domestic flights or accessing federal facilities that require ID.
How does an EDL differ from a standard driver license?
A standard driver license does not have an RFID chip or a star symbol. It only confirms your identity and driving privileges, but not your citizenship. You cannot use it to cross the border or to board domestic flights after October 1, 2023.
A standard driver license also costs less than an EDL. The fee for a standard driver license is $16 per year, while the fee for an EDL is $35 application fee + $1 technology fee + $16 per year issuance fee. The EDL fee covers the cost of the RFID chip and the security features.
What are the benefits of having an EDL?
Having an EDL can offer you several benefits, such as:
- Convenience: You can use your EDL as a single document to prove your identity and citizenship at land or sea border crossings. You do not need to carry your passport or other documents with you.
- Security: Your EDL has enhanced security features that protect your personal information from identity theft or fraud. The RFID chip only contains a unique number that does not reveal any personal information. The chip is also encrypted and tamper-proof. The MRZ has security features that prevent counterfeiting or alteration.
- Compliance: Your EDL meets the federal REAL ID standards that will be enforced after October 1, 2023. You can use it as an acceptable form of identification for domestic flights or accessing federal facilities that require ID.
How to apply for an EDL?
To apply for an EDL, you need to follow these steps:
- Prepare your personal documents: You need to have the correct documents that prove your identity, U.S. citizenship, Social Security number, and Washington residency. You can use the enhanced document checklist to find out what documents you need to bring.
- Make an appointment: You need to make an appointment at a driver licensing office near you that offers EDL services. You cannot apply online or by mail. You also need to pay the EDL fee when you apply.
- Complete the application process: At the driver licensing office, you will need to fill out an application form, present your documents, have your photo taken, and undergo a document review and an in-person interview. You will also need to provide your fingerprints and sign a declaration of U.S. citizenship.
- Receive your EDL: After you complete the application process, you will receive a temporary EDL before you leave. You can use it as your driver license until you receive your permanent EDL in the mail within two weeks. However, you cannot use it at border crossings until you receive your permanent EDL.
Conclusion
An EDL is a type of driver license that confirms your identity and U.S. citizenship, and can be used to enter the United States from Canada, Mexico, or the Caribbean through a land or sea port of entry. It also serves as your driver license and is an acceptable REAL ID document to use for air travel within the United States.
To get an EDL, you need to prepare your personal documents, make an appointment at a driver licensing office, and complete the application process. You will receive your EDL in the mail within two weeks.
If you are interested in getting an EDL, you can visit the Washington State Department of Licensing website for more information and resources.