REAL ID or Enhanced Driver’s License: Which One Should You Choose as the Deadline Approaches?

As the deadline for REAL ID enforcement draws near, many Americans are faced with an important decision: should you apply for a REAL ID or an Enhanced Driver’s License (EDL)?

While both are federally compliant forms of identification for air travel and access to federal facilities, they each come with distinct features.

Understanding the differences between these two options is essential in order to make an informed decision about which one best suits your needs.

What is a REAL ID?

A REAL ID is a driver’s license or state-issued ID card that meets federal security standards as outlined by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). Starting May 7, 2025, the federal government will require travelers to present a REAL ID, or another accepted form of identification, to board domestic flights and access certain federal buildings. Without a REAL ID or acceptable alternative, you may be denied access to these services.

To obtain a REAL ID, you will need to visit your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or the equivalent office in your area, submit proof of identity (such as a passport or birth certificate), proof of U.S. citizenship or legal status, and proof of your state residency (like utility bills or lease agreements). In some states, a REAL ID can be issued when renewing your driver’s license, while others require a separate application.

What is an Enhanced Driver’s License?

An Enhanced Driver’s License (EDL) is a state-issued driver’s license that not only meets REAL ID standards but also serves as proof of U.S. citizenship. This means that an EDL can be used for international travel to Canada, Mexico, and some Caribbean countries, where you may be able to cross the border by land or sea without needing a passport.

Unlike the REAL ID, which is purely for domestic travel and federal identification, an EDL is specifically designed for U.S. citizens who frequently travel across the border to neighboring countries. EDLs include a built-in RFID chip to facilitate quicker border crossing and are generally available in select states such as Michigan, New York, and Washington.

Key Differences: REAL ID vs. EDL

While both REAL IDs and EDLs are valid for domestic air travel and federal access, there are key distinctions:

1. International Travel:
   • REAL ID: Can only be used for domestic flights and entry to federal facilities.
   • EDL: In addition to being valid for domestic travel, an EDL can be used for land and sea crossings to Canada, Mexico, and certain Caribbean nations.
2. Cost:
   • REAL ID: The fee for a REAL ID is generally similar to that of a regular driver’s license renewal. However, some states may charge an additional fee for REAL ID issuance.
   • EDL: EDLs usually come with a higher cost than a standard driver’s license or REAL ID because of the added technology and border-crossing features.
3. Availability:
   • REAL ID: Available in all 50 states, but not all states offer EDLs.
   • EDL: Available only in select states, including Michigan, Minnesota, New York, Vermont, and Washington.
4. Functionality:
   • REAL ID: Primarily designed to meet federal identification standards, ensuring you can board flights and enter federal buildings.
   • EDL: Provides all the benefits of a REAL ID but adds an RFID chip for enhanced border crossing capabilities.

Which One Should You Choose?

The decision between a REAL ID and an Enhanced Driver’s License depends largely on your travel habits and needs.

• Choose a REAL ID if:
  • You only need identification for domestic flights and access to federal facilities.
  • You don’t frequently cross the U.S. border into Canada, Mexico, or the Caribbean.
  • You prefer a more affordable option for identification.
• Choose an Enhanced Driver’s License if:
  • You often travel across the U.S.-Canada or U.S.-Mexico borders and prefer to use one document for both driving and border crossings.
  • You want the convenience of an RFID chip for quicker entry at border crossings.
  • You don’t mind paying a slightly higher fee for the added functionality.

What Happens After the Deadline?

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With the May 2025 deadline fast approaching, it’s important to get ahead of the process now. After the deadline, you will need a REAL ID, EDL, or passport to board domestic flights or enter certain federal buildings. If you haven’t obtained one of these documents by then, you may face delays or be denied entry into these services.

Conclusion

As the deadline for REAL ID enforcement approaches, choosing between a REAL ID and an Enhanced Driver’s License comes down to your specific needs.

If you primarily need a federal-compliant ID for air travel and access to federal facilities, the REAL ID is likely the best option. However, if you travel frequently to neighboring countries by land or sea, the Enhanced Driver’s License offers additional benefits that may be worth the higher cost.

Whatever you decide, make sure to start the application process soon to ensure you have the proper documentation in time for the deadline.