New Texas driver's licenses to feature tamper-resistant design

HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — The Texas Department of Public Safety has introduced a new design for Texas driver's licenses and identification cards.

As of Aug. 18, DPS says all newly issued Texas DLs and IDs will feature a new look, with increased security features. 

The new driver's licenses and ID cards are made of tamper-resistant polycarbonate material that is difficult to reproduce and compliant with American Association of Motor Vehicle Administrators standards, said the DPS news release.

Texas DPS has rolled out a new design for all driver's licenses and ID cards with new safety features. Courtesy: Texas DPS.

“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.”

Instead of a gold star, the new cards will 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.

DPS says the previously issued cards, with the current design, are still valid until their expiration date.