Texas releases new driver’s licenses and ID cards. What does that mean? Is yours dead?
Here are the basics you need to know.
1. You look different
They are designed to be harder to forge. “The new DL and ID cards are made from polycarbonate material, which is more tamper-proof and harder to reproduce, and which is laser-engraved,” said a press release from the Texas Department of Public Security.
The cards also have additional information, including identifiers for veterans and those with medical conditions that can make communication difficult.
2. REAL ID Gold Star
The new licenses will also comply with the federal government’s REAL ID Act, which will set out in October who can pass TSA lines at airports. Check your current ID. If it has a gold star, you’re good to go. If it doesn’t, you have to Renew your license by October 1st. Travelers with gold stars in their passports can still fly with them as ID. If you plan to fly on or after October 1st, make sure your ID has the gold star on it. Renewing your license to receive the gold star does not cost any additional funds, as Texas has been issuing REAL ID-compliant licenses since 2016.
3. Is my old ID invalid?
Your license is valid until the expiration date. The only new limitation is the upcoming deadline for the gold star. As always with a license redesign, be ready so bouncers and bartenders can verify their IDs.
4. New identifiers
If you want to take advantage of the new identifiers available, it’s easy to do. Individuals with medical conditions that make communication difficult must complete this form and receive a letter from a licensed doctor. Veterans and disabled veterans must meet these criteria.
As always, registration as an organ donor only requires checking a box and does not cost any additional costs. America has over 100,000 people on organ waiting lists and you could save a life.
You must be under 18 years of age to use the secondary identifier.
5. Do the new IDs have chips that spy on us?
No, these new cards do not have this function. These are just a little fancier IDs, nothing more.
Bonus: Texas electoral ID required
As long as you verify your ID, keep in mind that you will need ID now if you want to vote in the November general election. For more information on what you need to know to vote in Texas, click here.
