Enhanced International Drivers Licenses: What Are They?

Enhanced International Drivers Licenses provide proof of identity native driver's license issued in a secure process and include technology that makes travel more accessible. They provide travelers with a low-cost, convenient alternative for entering the United States from Canada, Mexico, or the Caribbean through a land or seaport of entry, in addition to serving as a permit to drive.

An enhanced international driver's e-IDL contains a radio frequency identification (RFID) chip for more security and faster border crossings. According to the Secretary of State, this makes an enhanced license "especially handy for business travel, vacations or quick trips." 

e-IDL compliant with the federal REAL ID Act of 2005, making it an acceptable form of ID to board a commercial flight. However, in the future, a standard Michigan driver's license may not be acceptable for this purpose, requiring you to show an alternative form of ID.

International driver's license completed in e-IDL format makes it easier for travelers to cross the border into the United States because they include 

• a vicinity Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) chip that will signal a secure system to pull up your biographic and biometric data for the CBP officer as you approach the border inspection booth, and
• a Machine-Readable Zone (MRZ) or barcode that the CBP officer can read electronically if RFID isn't available.

The top 39 land ports of entry, which process more than 95 percent of land border crossings, are equipped with RFID technology that helps facilitate travel by individuals presenting EDLs or one of the other RFID-enabled documents. A valid form of identification in 150 countries worldwide and contains your name, photo, and driver information. It translates your identification information into ten languages — so it speaks the language even if you don't. Most countries highly recommend an International Driving Permit.