Obtaining an enhanced driver’s license in Washington State is a great option for residents looking for a convenient and secure form of identification for domestic travel. A Washington State enhanced driver’s license allows residents to not only operate a motor vehicle, but also to cross the US-Canada border by land or sea. In order to apply for an enhanced driver’s license, there are specific documents that applicants must provide to prove their identity, citizenship, and residency.
The Washington State Department of Licensing (DOL) requires several documents to be presented when applying for an enhanced driver’s license. These documents are necessary to verify a person’s identity, citizenship, and residency status. Without the proper documentation, individuals will not be able to obtain an enhanced driver’s license.
To apply for a Washington State enhanced driver’s license, applicants must provide the following documents:
1. Proof of U.S. citizenship: Applicants must provide a valid, unexpired U.S. passport or a certified copy of their birth certificate issued by a state or local government agency. In some cases, a Certificate of Naturalization or a Certificate of Citizenship may also be accepted as proof of U.S. citizenship.
2. Proof of identity: Applicants must provide one document to prove their identity. Acceptable forms of identification include a valid, unexpired driver’s license or identification card issued by a U.S. state or Canadian province, a U.S. military ID card, or a valid, unexpired passport from a foreign country. Additionally, applicants may also use a Certificate of Naturalization or a Certificate of Citizenship as proof of identity.
3. Proof of Washington State residency: Applicants must provide two documents to prove their Washington State residency. Acceptable forms of documentation include a utility bill, bank statement, lease agreement, or official government-issued mail that shows the applicant’s name and current address. It is important to note that post office boxes are not considered valid addresses for residency purposes.
4. Social security number: Applicants must provide their social security number to apply for a Washington State enhanced driver’s license. This information is used to verify the applicant’s identity and to comply with federal regulations.
In addition to the above documents, applicants must also pass a knowledge test and a vision screening, as well as pay the required fees for an enhanced driver’s license. The knowledge test covers traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices, while the vision screening ensures that applicants have adequate vision to operate a motor vehicle safely.
Once all required documents have been submitted and the knowledge test and vision screening have been passed, applicants will receive their Washington State enhanced driver’s license in the mail within 10 business days. The enhanced driver’s license is valid for up to six years and must be renewed before the expiration date to maintain its validity.
Overall, the process of obtaining a Washington State enhanced driver’s license may seem daunting, but with the proper documents and preparation, it can be a straightforward and rewarding experience. For residents who frequently travel to Canada or simply want a secure form of identification, an enhanced driver’s license is a valuable asset to have. By providing the necessary documents and meeting all requirements, applicants can easily obtain their enhanced driver’s license and enjoy the benefits that come with it.
