Minnesota Residents Can Now Apply for Enhanced Driver’s Licenses
Residents of Minnesota can now apply for enhanced driver’s licenses (EDLs), which are a convenient form of identification that can be used for domestic air travel and entry into federal facilities. The Minnesota Department of Public Safety Driver and Vehicle Services (DVS) began accepting applications for EDLs on October 1, 2021.
The EDLs are available to U.S. citizens who are residents of Minnesota and are at least 16 years old. To apply for an EDL, applicants must provide proof of identity, citizenship, and residency, as well as pass a knowledge test and a vision screening. The application fee for an EDL is $15 in addition to the standard driver’s license or identification card fee.
One of the main benefits of an EDL is that it can be used as both a driver’s license and a form of identification for domestic air travel. This means that travelers can use their EDL to board domestic flights within the United States without the need for a passport. Additionally, EDLs are Real ID-compliant, meaning that they also meet the federal requirements for entering certain secure federal facilities, such as military bases and nuclear power plants.
In order to obtain an EDL, applicants will need to visit a DVS office in person to complete the application process. The DVS offers appointments for EDL applications, which can be scheduled online through the department’s website. Applicants should be prepared to provide the necessary documentation and pass the required tests in order to receive their EDLs.
The process of applying for an EDL may be more involved than applying for a standard driver’s license, but the added convenience of having a form of identification that can be used for domestic air travel and entry into federal facilities may make it worth the extra effort for some Minnesota residents. Additionally, having an EDL can provide peace of mind for travelers who want to ensure that they have the proper identification for their journeys.
Overall, the introduction of EDLs in Minnesota provides residents with an additional option for identification that offers added convenience and security. By applying for an EDL, Minnesota residents can have confidence that they have the necessary documentation to travel domestically and access secure federal facilities. If you are a Minnesota resident who is interested in obtaining an EDL, be sure to visit the DVS website for more information on the application process and requirements.
