An enhanced driver license (also known as a passport card) eases your ability to travel in and out of the United States by land and sea, doubling as a driver's license and passport.
With it, no other documents are needed for proving citizenship and identity when entering the U.S. or any other of the following participating Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI) countries, territories, and islands (by land or sea only):
- Anguilla
- Antigua and Barbuda
- Aruba
- Bahamas
- Bermuda
- Boniare, St. Eustatius and Saba (BES)
- British Virgin Islands
- Canada
- Cayman Islands
- Dominica
- Dominican Republic
- Dutch Caribbean
- Grenada
- Jamaica
- Mexico
- Montserrat
- St. Kitts and Nevis
- St. Lucia
- St. Vincent and the Grenadines
- Turks and Caicos
California, Arizona, and Texas driver’s licenses may soon be enhanced as well, which would make crossing the US-Mexico border easier for American citizens. Each of these states is currently weighing the best options for supplying the cards and what it would mean for border control. On March 27, 2008, the Secretary of Homeland Security announced that Washington's enhanced driver's license was the first such license approved under the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative; according to a Homeland Security press release, the department is also working with Arizonan authorities to develop enhanced driver's licenses. Enhanced Drivers License in Orlando on YP.com. See reviews, photos, directions, phone numbers and more for the best Vehicle License & Registration in Orlando, FL. Start your search by typing in the business name below.
Bear in mind that you cannot use an EDL for international air travel. Passports are still required for when flying to and from the U.S. You can, however, use an EID when flying domestically for boarding planes.
States Offering an Enhanced Drivers License (EDL)
The following US states currently offer EDLs:
- Michigan
- New York
- Vermont
- Washington
Applying for an Enhanced Driver License
Applying for an enhanced driver license or enhanced ID is on a voluntary basis.
Requirements vary by state, but in all cases you must be a U.S. citizen and a resident of the state you're applying in. An EDL generally costs about $30 more than a regular driver's license, a considerable saving over a $130 passport. As an added bonus, it conveniently fits into the wallet.
To apply, visit your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) office. In most situations, bring the same identification as you would when applying for a regular driver's license. Play it safe, however, and call your DMV before visiting for a complete list of needed documents.
Do you have an EDL?
Applying for an Enhanced Driver's License (Over 18, Already Licensed)
Applying for an Enhanced Driver's License (Over 18, Already Licensed)
The enhanced driver's license is a cost-effective and convenient document that meets driving, identification and border-crossing needs. It is a federally approved document that allows you to re-enter the U.S. when traveling by land or sea from Canada, Mexico, Bermuda and the Caribbean. While not required, the enhanced license is an excellent alternative to a standard license because it is especially handy for business travel, vacations or quick trips. Several states, in addition to Michigan, offer an enhanced license.
Applying for an Enhanced Driver's License
To upgrade your valid Michigan or out-of-state license to an enhanced Michigan license, follow these steps.
Eligibility:
You must be a U.S. citizen and a Michigan resident
You must have no violations, suspensions, revocations or denials on your driving record that would prevent you from legally operating a motor vehicle
Please note: When applying for an enhanced driver's license, your first and last name and date of birth on documents should match. If your current legal name is different from what is shown on your birth certificate, passport, or other citizenship document, you must present lawful proof of the name change, such as an original marriage license, divorce decree or court order.
To apply:
Visit any Secretary of State office. Make sure you bring documentation of:
A valid Social Security number (for example, a Social Security card)
U.S. citizenship (for example, a certified copy of your birth certificate with a raised seal, must be issued by a governmental unit in the U.S. or U.S. territory)
Identity (for example, a current Michigan photo license or ID card)
Residency (for example, a current Michigan photo license or ID card)
Please refer to the Documents Required for an Enhanced License or ID form for a complete list of acceptable documentation.
Have a new photograph taken
Pay $45 for the standard enhanced license. There are additional fees for an enhanced chauffeur license and Commercial Driver License designations and endorsements.
All documentation is subject to Department of State approval. In some cases, document approval may not occur in the same day and may require an additional visit.
Once you complete the enhanced license application process, you will be issued a Temporary Operator's Permit to drive. The operator's permit does not qualify as a secure document for border-crossing purposes. Your enhanced license is valid for up to four years and should arrive in the mail within two to three weeks.
Michigan also issues an enhanced Graduated Driver License (for teens under 18), chauffeur license and Commercial Driver License. If you are over 18 and have never had a driver's license, you must successfully complete the written knowledge, vision, road signs and driving skills tests before a license can be issued.
How To Apply For Enhanced Driver's License
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