Washington state residents will soon have the option to apply for an enhanced driver’s license (EDL) that will allow them to travel to Canada and Mexico without the need for a passport. The enhanced driver’s license is a federally approved form of identification that not only allows for easier border crossings but also serves as a regular driver’s license for everyday use.
The Washington State Department of Licensing (DOL) announced that starting next month, residents can begin applying for the enhanced driver’s license at select DOL offices across the state. The EDL will cost an additional fee on top of the regular driver’s license fee, but the convenience of having a single card that serves as both a form of ID and a driver’s license is expected to be a significant selling point for many residents.
One of the key benefits of the enhanced driver’s license is its ability to serve as a valid form of identification for air travel within the United States. This means that residents who have an EDL will not need to carry their passport when flying domestically, making travel much more convenient. Additionally, the enhanced driver’s license is compliant with the REAL ID Act, which sets standards for identification that will be required for boarding domestic flights starting in October 2020.
The process of applying for an enhanced driver’s license is similar to applying for a regular driver’s license, but there are some additional requirements that applicants must meet. In addition to providing the usual documentation such as proof of identity and residence, applicants for an EDL must also provide proof of citizenship, such as a birth certificate or a valid US passport.
The enhanced driver’s license is equipped with RFID technology, which allows border agents to scan the card and verify the holder’s identity and citizenship. This makes crossing the border into Canada or Mexico faster and more secure, as border agents can quickly confirm the traveler’s information without the need for additional documentation.
The enhanced driver’s license is optional for Washington state residents, but for those who frequently travel to Canada or Mexico, or who want the convenience of having a single form of identification for both driving and air travel, the EDL is likely to be a popular choice. The DOL is encouraging residents who are interested in obtaining an enhanced driver’s license to start the application process as soon as possible, as there may be a high demand for the new cards.
In addition to the convenience of traveling with an enhanced driver’s license, there are also security benefits to be gained from using the EDL. Because the enhanced driver’s license is a secure form of identification with built-in safeguards, it is less prone to counterfeiting or tampering than other forms of ID. This can help prevent identity theft and fraud, making the EDL a safer option for residents who want to protect their personal information.
The introduction of the enhanced driver’s license in Washington state is part of a larger trend toward improving security and convenience for travelers. Many other states already offer enhanced driver’s licenses, and the federal government has been encouraging more states to adopt this form of ID as a way to streamline travel and enhance security at border crossings.
Overall, the enhanced driver’s license is expected to be a welcome addition for Washington state residents who travel frequently and want a more convenient and secure form of identification. With the ability to use the EDL for driving, air travel, and border crossings, residents will have a versatile and reliable form of identification that meets their needs in a variety of situations.
