Enhanced Driver's Licence/Enhanced Identification Card

About EDL/EIC

Under the U.S. Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI), an enhanced driver's licence (EDL)/enhanced identification card (EIC) is an acceptable document to present when entering the United States by land and water only.

The EDL/EIC is not a national identity card. An EDL is a secure driver's licence that denotes a person's identity and Canadian citizenship and will be issued by certain provinces and territories. The objective is to provide Canadians and Americans with a convenient option that will allow for spontaneous travel across the shared border. The EIC will offer the same advantages as an EDL for those holders who do not drive.

Obtaining an EDL or EIC is voluntary.

Note: all subsequent information about EDLs in this Web section equally applies to EICs.

In January 2008, British Columbia launched the first phase of its EDL program and there have been 521 voluntary applicants. In April 2009, the province announced it will fully implement its EDL/EIC program.

In January 2009, Manitoba launched its EIC program and is now accepting EIC applications.

In March 2009, Quebec launched its EDL program and is now accepting applications and issuing EDLs.

Ontario is in the process of developing an EDL program and its implementation is scheduled for spring 2009.

The U.S. government will review the EDL programs of provinces and territories on a case-by-case basis to ensure the EDLs satisfy the U.S. WHTI document requirements.

For more information:

• 2009-04-06: B.C.'s enhanced driver's licence for U.S. border use goes public (Canada Border Services Agency)
• 2009-03-16: Government of Québec facilitates US border crossings (Government of Quebec)
• 2009-01-19: Province launches enhanced identification card program (Government of Manitoba
• 2008-08-28: Nova Scotia pursuing enhanced driver's licence (Government of Nova Scotia)
• 2008-06-03: Ontario Introduces Passport Alternative (Ontario Ministry of Transportation)
• 2008-01-21: Canada's first enhanced driver's licence launched in B.C. (Public Safety Canada)
• Enhanced Drivers Licenses: What Are They? (U.S. Department of Homeland Security)