When planning a cruise vacation, one of the most pressing questions many travelers have is: “What kind of identification do I need to bring?” This is especially relevant now, as there’s a fair bit of confusion surrounding the various types of IDs available, especially with the introduction of Enhanced Driver’s Licenses (EDL) and the more widespread Real ID licenses.
Let’s break down the specifics to help you better prepare for your cruise.
What is an Enhanced Driver’s License (EDL)?
An Enhanced Driver’s License (EDL) is a specially designed driver’s license for U.S. citizens residing in participating states. It is embedded with a radio frequency identification chip that proves identity and citizenship. This means that an EDL not only serves as a valid driver’s license but also as proof of your U.S. citizenship.
It’s worth noting that the EDL was introduced to provide a convenient way for citizens to enter the U.S. by land or sea from Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and the Caribbean without needing a traditional passport.
Enhanced Driver’s Licenses (EDLs) are available in a select group of U.S. states. These states include:
- Michigan
- Minnesota
- New York
- Vermont
- Washington
Additionally, the provinces of British Columbia, Manitoba, Ontario, and Quebec in Canada also offer their own version of the Enhanced Driver’s License for Canadian citizens.
However, it’s essential to keep in mind that the availability of EDLs might change over time, with more states potentially offering them or changes in the program’s status. It’s always a good idea to check with your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or equivalent agency to get the most up-to-date information on the availability and requirements of Enhanced Driver’s Licenses.
How Does an EDL Differ from a Real ID?
The Real ID and EDL serve different purposes:
- Real ID: Following the events of September 11, 2001, the Real ID Act was established in 2005, setting security standards for state-issued licenses and IDs. By 2020, travelers flying within the U.S. needed a Real ID-compliant driver’s license or ID to pass through TSA airport security.
- EDL: As previously mentioned, the EDL serves as both a driver’s license and a proof of citizenship, particularly designed for land and sea travel into the U.S. from specific regions.
Although both Real ID and EDL meet federal guidelines, they’re not interchangeable for all purposes. For example, an EDL can be used for re-entry into the U.S. by sea from certain countries, whereas the Real ID does not serve that purpose.
What Identification Do I Need for a Cruise?
The type of identification you need largely depends on where your cruise is going:
- Closed-loop cruises: These are cruises that begin and end at the same U.S. port. For these cruises, U.S. citizens can use a birth certificate and a government-issued photo ID (like a driver’s license) to board. An EDL can suffice in place of these two documents.
- Open-loop or international cruises: If your cruise departs from one location and ends in another, or if you’re visiting international ports, the identification requirements get stricter. For these cruises, a passport or passport card is generally required.
A Passport or Passport Card is the Best Insurance for Successful Boarding
While the EDL and other forms of identification might be acceptable for certain cruises, having a passport or a passport card is the safest bet for several reasons:
- Versatility: Passports are accepted for all international travel, whether by air, land, or sea. There’s no ambiguity about where or how you can use it.
- Emergencies: Imagine missing your cruise departure from a foreign country, or needing to fly home unexpectedly due to an emergency. In such cases, an EDL won’t get you on an international flight; you’d need a passport.
- Greater Acceptance: Some countries, regardless of cruising stipulations, prefer or require a passport for entry. This guarantees smoother transitions through customs and immigration checkpoints.
- Duration: Passports are valid for 10 years for adults, giving you a decade of hassle-free travel.
While the Enhanced Driver’s License offers numerous benefits for specific travel scenarios, if you’re a frequent or even occasional cruiser, investing in a passport or passport card is the most fail-safe option. It ensures you won’t face any unexpected hiccups or denials as you board your cruise or navigate international ports.