Michigan residents who are looking to upgrade their standard driver’s license to an enhanced driver’s license face a few additional steps and requirements. The enhanced driver’s license (EDL) allows for easier travel across the US-Canada border and is also a federally accepted form of identification for activities such as boarding domestic flights and entering secure federal facilities. To apply for an enhanced driver’s license in Michigan, there are certain documents that applicants must provide.
The first document needed for a Michigan enhanced driver’s license is proof of identity and residency. This can be in the form of a valid US passport, a certified birth certificate, or a permanent resident card. A passport is the easiest and most common form of identification, as it already includes both proof of identity and proof of citizenship. If a passport is not available, a birth certificate can be used, but it must be a certified copy issued by the state of birth. A permanent resident card is necessary for non-US citizens who are applying for an enhanced driver’s license.
In addition to proof of identity and residency, applicants must also provide a social security number. This can be proven by providing the actual social security card or a W-2 form with the social security number listed. The social security number is used to verify the applicant’s identity and prevent fraud.
Another document needed for a Michigan enhanced driver’s license is proof of Michigan residency. This can be shown through a utility bill, rental agreement, or mortgage statement that includes the applicant’s name and current address. The purpose of this document is to demonstrate that the applicant is a resident of Michigan and therefore eligible for an enhanced driver’s license.
If the applicant’s name has changed due to marriage, divorce, or any other reason, legal documentation of the name change must also be provided. This can include a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. This document is necessary to ensure that the name on the enhanced driver’s license matches the applicant’s current legal name.
Finally, applicants must provide proof of citizenship. This can be shown with a valid US passport, a certified birth certificate, or a naturalization certificate. The purpose of this document is to confirm that the applicant is a citizen of the United States and therefore eligible for an enhanced driver’s license.
In addition to these documents, applicants must also pass a vision test, pay a fee, and have their photo taken in order to receive a Michigan enhanced driver’s license. The process may take several weeks, as the documents must be verified and the license must be mailed to the applicant’s address.
Overall, obtaining a Michigan enhanced driver’s license requires several important documents to prove identity, residency, and citizenship. By providing these documents and completing the application process, Michigan residents can obtain an enhanced driver’s license that allows for easier travel and identification in a variety of situations.
