How to Get WA State Enhanced Driver’s License
Obtaining a Washington State Enhanced Driver’s License (EDL) is a convenient and secure way to travel between the United States and Canada by land and sea. This specialized driver’s license is compliant with the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI) and also serves as a standard driver’s license in Washington State. If you are a Washington resident looking to obtain an EDL, here is a step-by-step guide on how to get one.
Eligibility Requirements
Before applying for an EDL, it’s important to make sure you meet the eligibility requirements set by the Washington State Department of Licensing (DOL). To be eligible for an EDL, you must be a U.S. citizen, a U.S. national, or a lawful permanent resident of the United States. You also need to be a Washington State resident and hold a valid Washington State driver’s license.
In addition, you must be at least 18 years old to apply for an EDL. If you are under 18, you can still apply for an Enhanced ID Card, which serves the same purpose as an EDL but does not allow you to drive.
Gather Required Documents
To apply for an EDL, you will need to provide specific documents to verify your identity, citizenship, and residency. The following documents are required when applying for an EDL:
– Proof of U.S. citizenship: You can provide a U.S. passport, a certified birth certificate, a consular report of birth abroad, a certificate of naturalization, or a certificate of citizenship.
– Proof of identity: You will need to provide one primary document, such as a valid driver’s license, state-issued ID card, or passport, and one secondary document, such as a Social Security card, W-2 form, or utility bill.
– Proof of Washington State residency: You can provide a utility bill, rental agreement, bank statement, or any other official document that shows your Washington State address.
– Social Security Number: You will need to provide your Social Security Number or proof of ineligibility if you don’t have one.
Schedule an Appointment
Once you have gathered all the required documents, the next step is to schedule an appointment at a Washington State DOL office that offers EDL services. You can schedule an appointment online through the DOL’s website or by calling their customer service line. Make sure to select the option for an Enhanced Driver’s License appointment when booking your appointment.
During your appointment, you will need to bring all the required documents and pay the application fee for the EDL. The fee for an Enhanced Driver’s License is higher than a standard driver’s license, so be prepared to pay the additional cost.
Complete the Application Process
When you arrive at the DOL office for your appointment, a DOL representative will guide you through the application process. You will be required to fill out a driver’s license application form and provide your personal information, such as your name, date of birth, address, and contact information.
The DOL representative will verify your documents, take your photo, and administer a vision test to ensure you meet the visual acuity requirements for driving. Once everything is in order, you will be issued a temporary EDL that you can use until your permanent card arrives in the mail.
Receive Your Enhanced Driver’s License
After completing the application process, your Enhanced Driver’s License will be mailed to you within 10-15 business days. The EDL looks similar to a standard driver’s license but includes a radio frequency chip that stores your personal information and biometric data, making it more secure and convenient for travel purposes.
Once you receive your EDL, make sure to review all the information on the card for accuracy. If there are any errors or discrepancies, contact the DOL immediately to have them corrected. Your EDL is valid for up to six years and must be renewed before the expiration date to maintain its validity.
In conclusion, obtaining a Washington State Enhanced Driver’s License is a straightforward process that requires meeting specific eligibility requirements, gathering required documents, scheduling an appointment, completing the application process, and receiving your EDL in the mail. By following these steps, you can get your EDL and enjoy the convenience of traveling between the U.S. and Canada with ease and peace of mind.
