Understanding REAL ID in Washington State
In Washington, residents have two main options when it comes to federally compliant identification: the REAL ID-compliant driver license and the Enhanced Driver License (EDL). Both meet federal standards for secure ID, but Washington is unique in offering the EDL as its primary federally approved option.
Issued by the Washington State Department of Licensing (DOL), the EDL or a REAL ID-compliant license allows residents to use their state-issued ID for federal purposes like boarding domestic flights and entering secure federal facilities.
Why Washington Offers Enhanced Driver Licenses
Washington was among the few states to adopt Enhanced Driver Licenses early on. An EDL includes additional proof of citizenship and is accepted for land and sea travel to Canada and Mexico, in addition to serving as federal identification under REAL ID standards.
While Washington also offers standard driver licenses, those are not REAL ID-compliant and are marked with "Federal Limits Apply." These standard IDs cannot be used for air travel or to access federal facilities where identification is required.
Why You May Need a REAL ID or EDL
Though not required for everyone, having a REAL ID-compliant license or EDL is a smart move if you plan to:
Fly within the United States
Enter military bases or secure federal buildings
Travel to Canada or Mexico by land or sea (EDL only)
Without one of these ID types, you’ll need to carry a passport or other federally accepted document. If you’d rather rely on a single, convenient card, applying for an EDL or REAL ID-compliant license is your best option.
What You’ll Need to Apply
To apply for an Enhanced Driver License or REAL ID-compliant license in Washington, you must visit a DOL office in person and present specific documentation. You must provide:
Proof of U.S. Citizenship
– Valid U.S. passport
– Certified U.S. birth certificate
Proof of Identity
– Current Washington driver license
– Passport or military ID
Proof of Social Security Number
– Social Security card
– W-2 or 1099 with full SSN
Two Proofs of Washington Residency
– Utility bills
– Lease, mortgage, or bank statement
– Government-issued mail or tax return
Name Change Documents (if applicable)
– Marriage certificate
– Divorce decree
– Court order for name change
All documents must be originals or certified copies—photocopies and digital images will not be accepted.
Where to Apply in Washington
You can apply for a REAL ID-compliant license or an EDL at select Washington DOL offices across the state. Offices in Seattle, Spokane, Tacoma, Vancouver, Everett, Olympia, and other areas offer full services. Not all DOL offices issue EDLs, so it’s important to check the DOL website and schedule an appointment before visiting.
Appointments are strongly encouraged, and walk-ins may face long wait times or limited service availability.
Costs for a REAL ID or EDL in Washington
The fees vary slightly depending on what you're applying for:
Enhanced Driver License (EDL):
– $78 for a standard 6-year license
– $7 per year if converting mid-cycle
Standard Driver License (not REAL ID-compliant):
– $54 for 6 years
Upgrading early to an EDL adds a prorated fee depending on how much time is left on your current license. There’s no additional cost for a REAL ID-compliant version—just the normal renewal fee if you present the required documentation.
Tips for a Smooth Application Process
Before your appointment, use Washington’s online document checklist tool to make sure you're bringing everything needed. Double-check that your documents are unexpired and that all names match. If you’ve changed your name, bring all legal documents connecting your identity from birth to now.
Be sure to arrive early for your appointment, especially at high-traffic DOL locations. Processing time is typically under 30 minutes if documents are in order.
What If You Don’t Get a REAL ID or EDL?
If you choose to keep a standard Washington license, it will be marked with “Federal Limits Apply” and cannot be used to board flights or enter federal buildings that require secure identification. You’ll need to carry an alternative document, such as a valid U.S. passport, in those situations.
Washington is one of the few states where residents have long had access to enhanced licenses, so it’s easy to make the switch if you plan ahead.
Conclusion
Getting a REAL ID-compliant license or an Enhanced Driver License in Washington is a smart way to streamline your travel and identification needs. Whether you fly regularly, visit federal facilities, or cross the border into Canada, an EDL or compliant ID card gives you the flexibility to move confidently and securely.
With one appointment and the proper documents, you’ll be ready for both everyday life and federal requirements—without needing to carry extra paperwork.