Washington State Launches Enhanced Driver’s License Program to Enhance Security Measures
June 30, 2022 – Seattle, WA – In an effort to enhance security measures and provide residents with more convenience when traveling to and from Canada and Mexico, the state of Washington has officially launched its Enhanced Driver’s License (EDL) program. The new EDL program allows residents to obtain a driver’s license that can also be used as a valid form of identification when crossing borders with the two neighboring countries.
The EDL program is an initiative that was first introduced in response to the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI), which requires all travelers to present a valid form of identification when entering the United States from Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda. The EDL is a secure, RFID-enabled document that meets all of the requirements of the WHTI, making it easier for Washington residents to travel internationally without having to carry multiple forms of identification.
Washington State Department of Licensing (DOL) is responsible for issuing EDLs to residents who meet the eligibility requirements, which include being a U.S. citizen, a resident of Washington State, and having a valid driver’s license. Applicants will also need to provide proof of identity, residency, and citizenship, as well as pass a knowledge test and a driving test.
“We are excited to launch the Enhanced Driver’s License program in Washington State,” said Mark Johnson, Director of the Washington State Department of Licensing. “The EDL will provide our residents with a convenient and secure form of identification that can be used when traveling to and from Canada and Mexico.”
One of the key features of the EDL is its enhanced security measures, including a Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) chip that stores the holder’s information, such as name, date of birth, and photograph. This information can be accessed by border agents using special scanners to verify the holder’s identity and citizenship quickly and efficiently.
In addition to its security features, the EDL also serves as a valid driver’s license, meaning that holders can use it for domestic purposes as well. This eliminates the need for residents to carry both a driver’s license and a passport when traveling internationally, making the process more streamlined and convenient.
To obtain an EDL, residents can visit their local DOL office and follow the application process, which includes providing the required documentation, completing the necessary tests, and paying the associated fees. Once approved, the EDL will be mailed to the applicant within a few weeks.
The launch of the EDL program in Washington State has been met with positive feedback from residents, who appreciate the added convenience and security that the new document provides.
“I travel to Canada frequently for work, and having to carry my passport every time was a hassle,” said Sarah Miller, a resident of Seattle. “With the new EDL, I can now travel with just one document, making the process much more convenient.”
The EDL program is part of a larger effort by the state of Washington to enhance security measures and improve the experience for residents when traveling internationally. With the launch of the EDL, residents can now enjoy a more streamlined and secure process when crossing borders with Canada and Mexico.
For more information about the Enhanced Driver’s License program in Washington State, including eligibility requirements and application instructions, residents can visit the Washington State Department of Licensing website or contact their local DOL office.
