South Carolina DMV updating driver’s licenses and ID cards, changing how they’re issued

MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. (WBTW) — If you’re planning to get a new South Carolina driver’s license or identification card this fall, you can expect some changes that officials say are aimed at improving security and celebrating the state’s heritage.

The state Department of Motor Vehicles on Tuesday unveiled new designs for licenses and identification cards, while also announcing that the agency is changing how it issues them.

“Because of the significant enhancements reflected in the new card, the SCDMV is transitioning to a centralized card issuance process using facilities certified for secure credential production — a method already used by 45 other states, the District of Columbia, and several federal agencies,” the agency said in a news release.

The change means anyone who applies for a license or ID card will no longer get their license or card immediately at the branch office. Instead, they will be given a temporary certificate. The license or card will be mailed to the person within seven to 15 business days.

The temporary certificates will be valid for up to 30 days and can be used for driving, voting, and identification, where accepted.

Expiring cards will be returned with a hole punch and will be able to used as photo ID, where accepted, until the new card arrives. A QR code on the temporary certificate allows people to track the status of their new card through production and mailing. 

The updated cards will include more than 40 “advanced security features” and incorporate laser engraving technology, the DMV said, steps aimed at enhancing durability and providing greater protection against counterfeiting and identity theft.

They will also have images of the Statehouse, the Palmetto tree and crescent from the state flag, along with tributes to the state flower, the yellow jessamine; the state bird, the Carolina wren; and the state reptile, the loggerhead sea turtle.

“These new licenses and ID cards showcase the Palmetto State while providing citizens with greater protection against becoming victims of identity fraud,” DMV Executive Director Kevin Shwedo said. “We hope that South Carolinians will look on these new designs with pride and confidence.”

The DMV said it will begin issuing the new cards and using the new process for issuing them in late August at two Midlands locations: Columbia (Shop Road) and Lexington. A statewide rollout is expected later in the fall.

Current cardholders are not required to take any action as all South Carolina licenses and ID cards remain valid until their listed expiration dates. In addition, the cost of the new cards remains the same.

The new card design will apply to all current types and classes of South Carolina licenses and ID cards, which will still be offered as both REAL ID compliant cards and Not For Federal Use (non-REAL ID compliant) cards.

The design has earned accolades for its connection to South Carolina’s native wildlife.

“The inclusion of iconic native species on this reimagined SC ID serves as a powerful reminder of our responsibility to protect the remarkable wildlife that calls South Carolina home,” Greg Peccie, vice president of animal care at Riverbanks Zoo and Garden said in the news release. “Riverbanks is proud to continue collaborating in a shared commitment to the preservation of native species and the conservation of the vital habitats that sustain them.”

For more information and to view a list of Frequently Asked Questions regarding the new card design and process, visit the DMV’s website.