Austin, Texas – Texas began to issue redesigned driving licenses and identification cards on Monday with improved security features aimed at preventing counterfeiting and identity theft.
The Texas Department of Public Security said that all newly issued licenses and identity cards will include the updated design from August 18, although the previously issued cards remain valid until their expiration dates.
“This new cards design will make even more difficult for criminals to produce counterfeit cards, and this improves the means to protect the identities of the Texans from the fly,” said Sheri Gipson, head of the DPS driving license division.
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The new cards are made of severe polycarbonate materials which, according to officials, are difficult to reproduce and meet the standards established by the American Association of Motor Vehicle Administrators.
Instead of the Gold Star used on previous licenses, there will be no black and grave laser star in the upper right corner. The cards also reorganize personal information in what DPS describes as a clearer and more readable format for identification and verification.
DPS stressed that Texans do not need to replace their current licenses.
