Sample images of licenses under the age of 21 and licenses for adults. (Images courtesy of DPS)
AUSTIN, Texas – The Texas Department of Public Safety announced a new design for Texas driver’s licenses on Thursday.
According to DPS, they started issuing the newly designed licenses on February 24th. The new licenses offer a new look and feel as well as enhanced security functions.
Example of a new design for a pistol license (Image courtesy of DPS)
DPS said the new design will identify veterans and disabled veterans on the front of the card along with their branch of service.
DPS also introduced a new design for licenses for handguns in Texas.
According to the DPS, all previously issued licenses are valid until the expiry date stated on the card.
Read on for the full release of DPS:
As of this week, the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) began issuing the newly designed Texas Driver’s Licenses (DL), ID Cards and Driver’s Licenses (LTC) to all Texans. Most importantly, all cards will have a new look with an updated design and enhanced security features. The DL / ID cards also have visible and discreet identifiers on the front. It is important to note that previously issued DLs are still valid until the expiry date stated on the card.
The new DL and ID cards are made of tamper-proof and difficult to reproduce polycarbonate material and have a laser engraving, which offers additional protection against changes and forgery. As part of the new design, there is an identifier on the front of the card for people with a health condition that can affect their ability to communicate with others. The new design will also identify veterans and disabled veterans and their branch on the face of the cards. In addition, the new map functions meet the national standards of the American Association of Motor Vehicle Administrators.
As with all DL and ID cards that DPS has issued since the beginning of October 2016, the new cards are REAL ID-compliant, as shown by the gold star in the upper right corner. Texans without a gold star on their currently valid DL / ID card can visit Texas.gov/goldstar to verify their early renewal eligibility or to request a duplicate card that is REAL ID compliant. As a reminder, starting October 1, 2020, you will need a valid passport, U.S. military ID, or REAL ID-compliant driver’s license (one with the gold star) to travel on commercial airlines or enter federal facilities.
As part of the redesign, the Texas License to Carry (LTC) handgun cards will also have a new look and functionality, including laser engraving and a durable, tamper-proof polycarbonate material.
To learn more about the new card design and features, visit our website.
