An enhanced driver’s license (EDL) is a type of identification that allows an individual to prove their identity and citizenship. It can be used as an alternative to a passport when crossing international borders by land or sea. In Michigan, an EDL allows individuals to travel to Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean. In order to obtain an EDL, an individual must meet certain requirements.
What is an Enhanced Driver's License?
An enhanced driver’s license (EDL) is a type of ID that is issued by the state of Michigan. It is designed to meet the requirements of the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI). It may be used in place of a passport when entering the United States from Canada, Mexico, or certain Caribbean nations by land or sea.
An EDL is a secure form of identification that includes a photograph and other biographical information. The EDL is also embedded with a radio frequency identification (RFID) chip. This chip allows for easy scanning of the EDL and helps to ensure that the person carrying the EDL is the person identified on the document.
Who Can Get an Enhanced Driver's License in Michigan?
In order to apply for an EDL in Michigan, an individual must be a U.S. citizen and a resident of Michigan. They must also have a valid Michigan driver’s license. Individuals must also be able to prove their citizenship and identity with documents such as a birth certificate or passport.
Individuals must also be able to pass a vision test and be free of any medical conditions that may impair their ability to drive. Finally, applicants must have a clean driving record with no convictions for driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
How to Apply for an Enhanced Driver's License in Michigan
In order to apply for an EDL in Michigan, individuals must visit a Michigan Secretary of State office. They will need to bring documents that prove their identity, such as a birth certificate or passport, as well as documents that prove their citizenship. They will also need to bring their Michigan driver’s license and two other forms of identification.
When the individual arrives at the office, they will be asked to complete an application and pay the fee for the EDL. The individual will then be asked to take a vision test and a knowledge test, if necessary. Once the individual passes the tests, they will be issued an EDL.
How Long Does it Take to Get an Enhanced Driver's License in Michigan?
The time it takes to get an EDL in Michigan can vary depending on the individual’s circumstances. Generally, it takes about 4-6 weeks to receive an EDL in the mail. However, if an individual needs their EDL sooner, they can visit an express office and pay an additional fee to get their EDL immediately.
How Much Does an Enhanced Driver's License Cost in Michigan?
The cost of an EDL in Michigan is $45. This fee is in addition to the cost of the Michigan driver’s license, which is $25. There is also an additional fee for an express office visit if an individual needs their EDL immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an Enhanced Driver's License?
An enhanced driver’s license (EDL) is a type of identification that allows an individual to prove their identity and citizenship. It can be used as an alternative to a passport when crossing international borders by land or sea.
Who Can Get an Enhanced Driver's License in Michigan?
In order to apply for an EDL in Michigan, an individual must be a U.S. citizen and a resident of Michigan. They must also have a valid Michigan driver’s license. Individuals must also be able to prove their citizenship and identity with documents such as a birth certificate or passport.
How to Apply for an Enhanced Driver's License in Michigan?
In order to apply for an EDL in Michigan, individuals must visit a Michigan Secretary of State office. They will need to bring documents that prove their identity, such as a birth certificate or passport, as well as documents that prove their citizenship. They will also need to bring their Michigan driver’s license and two other forms of identification.
How Long Does it Take to Get an Enhanced Driver's License in Michigan?
The time it takes to get an EDL in Michigan can vary depending on the individual’s circumstances. Generally, it takes about 4-6 weeks to receive an EDL in the mail. However, if an individual needs their EDL sooner, they can visit an express office and pay an additional fee to get their EDL immediately.
How Much Does an Enhanced Driver's License Cost in Michigan?
The cost of an EDL in Michigan is $45. This fee is in addition to the cost of the Michigan driver’s license, which is $25. There is also an additional fee for an express office visit if an individual needs their EDL immediately.
Can I Get an Enhanced Driver's License if I Don't Have a Valid Michigan Driver's License?
No. In order to apply for an EDL in Michigan, an individual must have a valid Michigan driver’s license.
Do I Need to Take a Test to Get an Enhanced Driver's License in Michigan?
Yes. When applying for an EDL in Michigan, individuals must take a vision test and a knowledge test, if necessary.
Do I Need to Provide Documents to Prove My Identity When Applying for an Enhanced Driver's License in Michigan?
Yes. When applying for an EDL in Michigan, individuals must provide documents that prove their identity and citizenship, such as a birth certificate or passport.
Can I Use an Enhanced Driver's License to Enter the United States from Canada, Mexico, or Certain Caribbean Nations?
Yes. An EDL can be used in place of a passport when entering the United States from Canada, Mexico, or certain Caribbean nations by land or sea.
Can I Use an Enhanced Driver's License as a Form of Identification?
Yes. An EDL is a secure form of identification that includes a photograph and other biographical information.
What Does the Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) Chip on an Enhanced Driver's License Do?
The RFID chip on an EDL allows for easy scanning of the EDL and helps to ensure that the person carrying the EDL is the person identified on the document.
Can I Apply for an Enhanced Driver's License Online?
No. In order to apply for an EDL in Michigan, individuals must visit a Michigan Secretary of State office.