Texas DPS announces new driver license, ID design

AUSTIN, Texas (KAMR/KCIT) — The Texas Department of Public Safety announced a new design on Texas driver licenses and identification cards starting this week.

Texas DPS said all newly issued Texas DL and IDs will feature the new look. Previously issued cards are still valid through their expiration date said officials.

Officials said the new cards have increase security features with tamper-resistant polycarbonate material that is difficult to reproduce and compliant with American Association of Motor Vehicle Administrators (AAMVA) standards.

Instead of a gold star, the new cards now feature a black, laser-engraved star in the upper right corner to indicate REAL ID compliance. The new cards also reorganize personal information in a clear and easy-to-read format for identification and verification purposes.

“The way driver licenses are made can make a big difference in terms of public safety,” said DPS Driver License Division Chief Sheri Gipson. “This new card design will make it even more difficult for criminals to produce counterfeit cards, and it enhances ways we can protect Texans’ identities from being stolen.”