Wisconsin Enhanced Driver’s License (EDL): Everything You Need to Know
In a move to enhance security measures and make travel easier for residents, the state of Wisconsin has introduced the Enhanced Driver’s License (EDL). This new form of identification brings added benefits and functionalities to the traditional driver’s license, providing residents with a convenient and secure way to prove their identity both domestically and internationally.
What is a Wisconsin Enhanced Driver’s License?
The Wisconsin Enhanced Driver’s License is a form of identification that serves as both a driver’s license and a passport card. It is equipped with an RFID chip that stores personal information, allowing for faster and more secure border crossings by land or sea between the United States and Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda.
In addition to serving as a passport card for land and sea travel, the EDL can also be used as a standard driver’s license for domestic travel and identification purposes. This dual functionality makes the EDL an efficient and practical option for Wisconsin residents who frequently travel or conduct business across borders.
How to Obtain a Wisconsin Enhanced Driver’s License
To apply for a Wisconsin Enhanced Driver’s License, residents must visit a DMV service center in person. The application process requires applicants to provide proof of identity, citizenship, residency, and social security number. In addition, applicants must pass a knowledge test, vision screening, and road test (if applicable), as well as pay a fee for the enhanced license.
Once approved, applicants will receive their Enhanced Driver’s License in the mail within 7-10 business days. The license will be valid for up to eight years and can be renewed in-person or online as needed.
Benefits of a Wisconsin Enhanced Driver’s License
There are several benefits to holding a Wisconsin Enhanced Driver’s License, including:
1. Simplified Travel: The EDL allows residents to travel to Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda by land or sea without the need for a traditional passport, making border crossings quicker and more convenient.
2. Dual Functionality: The EDL serves as both a driver’s license and a passport card, eliminating the need to carry multiple forms of identification when traveling domestically or internationally.
3. Enhanced Security: The RFID chip embedded in the EDL adds an extra layer of security, helping to prevent fraud and identity theft during border crossings.
4. Cost-Effective: The cost of obtaining an EDL is comparable to that of a traditional driver’s license and passport card combined, providing residents with a cost-effective solution for international travel.
5. Ease of Renewal: The EDL can be renewed in-person or online, making it easy for residents to maintain their enhanced license for future travel needs.
Overall, the Wisconsin Enhanced Driver’s License offers residents a secure and convenient way to travel internationally while also serving as a reliable form of identification for domestic purposes.
Important Considerations for Wisconsin Enhanced Driver’s License Holders
While the Wisconsin Enhanced Driver’s License offers numerous benefits, there are a few important considerations for license holders to keep in mind:
1. Limited Acceptance: While the EDL is accepted for land and sea travel to select countries, it is not valid for air travel. Residents planning to fly internationally will still need to carry a traditional passport.
2. Privacy Concerns: The RFID chip in the EDL stores personal information, raising potential privacy concerns for some residents. While the chip is designed to enhance security, individuals may choose to take additional precautions to protect their data.
3. Renewal Requirements: Residents holding an EDL must renew their license before it expires to maintain its validity for travel purposes. Failure to renew on time could result in travel delays or difficulties.
In conclusion, the Wisconsin Enhanced Driver’s License offers residents a convenient and secure form of identification for both domestic and international travel. By providing dual functionality as a driver’s license and passport card, the EDL streamlines the travel process and enhances security measures for residents on the go. Whether traveling across borders for business or leisure, the EDL is a reliable and cost-effective option for Wisconsin residents seeking a practical solution for their identification needs.
