Minnesota residents will soon have the option to apply for an enhanced driver’s license (EDL), a new form of identification that offers additional benefits for those looking for a more secure and convenient way to travel.
The Minnesota Department of Public Safety announced that starting next month, eligible residents can begin applying for an EDL at select driver’s license offices across the state. The EDL is an alternative to a traditional driver’s license and can be used as a form of identification for domestic air travel and for entering federal facilities, such as military bases and nuclear power plants.
So, what exactly is an enhanced driver’s license, and how does it differ from a regular driver’s license? An EDL is a driver’s license that has been enhanced with additional security features to verify the identity and citizenship of the cardholder. This includes a Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) chip embedded in the card, which allows border officials to quickly and accurately verify the identity of the cardholder.
In addition to the RFID chip, the EDL also features a unique design that sets it apart from a regular driver’s license. The card includes a star in the upper right-hand corner, indicating that it is an EDL. This design makes it easy for officials to quickly identify the card and determine its validity.
One of the main advantages of an EDL is that it can be used as a form of identification for domestic air travel. This means that residents who have an EDL can use it in place of a passport when traveling within the United States. This makes the EDL a convenient option for those who frequently travel by air and want to streamline the identification process at the airport.
Another benefit of an EDL is that it can be used to enter federal facilities that require identification, such as military bases and nuclear power plants. The enhanced security features of the EDL make it a trusted form of identification for these types of facilities, allowing cardholders to access restricted areas with ease.
To apply for an EDL in Minnesota, residents will need to provide proof of identity, citizenship, and residency. This includes documents such as a birth certificate, Social Security card, and proof of residency, such as a utility bill or lease agreement. Applicants will also need to pass a written knowledge test, a vision test, and a road test if they are applying for a new driver’s license.
The cost of an EDL in Minnesota is $15 in addition to the regular driver’s license fee. The EDL is valid for four years and can be renewed just like a regular driver’s license. Residents who are interested in applying for an EDL can do so at select driver’s license offices across the state starting next month.
Overall, the introduction of the enhanced driver’s license in Minnesota offers residents a more secure and convenient form of identification for domestic air travel and accessing federal facilities. The EDL provides peace of mind for travelers and makes the identification process quicker and easier for both cardholders and officials. If you are a Minnesota resident interested in obtaining an enhanced driver’s license, be sure to visit your local driver’s license office to start the application process.
