DC Department of Motor Vehicles Unveils New, More Secure Driver Licenses and ID Cards

To ensure resident security, the DC Department of Motor Vehicles (DC DMV) has launched a new design for its driver's licenses and identification cards, promising superior protection against identity theft. Developed in partnership with Thales Group, the newly designed credentials, which sport vibrant colors and iconic DC imagery, will start being issued on July 17, according to a DC DMV press release.

The fresh design combines state-of-the-art technology with distinctive elements of DC's culture and heritage, featuring cherry blossoms, the Wood Thrush bird, and the Frederick Douglass Memorial Bridge. Moreover, DC DMV will begin producing licenses and ID cards on Thales' Group 100% Polycarbonate cards, incorporating a new Multiple Laser Image (MLI) feature that enhances security and makes counterfeiting attempts more challenging.

"We wanted to ensure that our DC credentials are one of the most secure in the nation. Even while expanding design options, we are strengthening security," said Director Gabriel Robinson, asserting the Bowser Administration's commitment to protecting DC residents in various ways.

The move follows a rising trend of jurisdictions across North America switching to Thales' Polycarbonate cards, known for their sustainable and robust security features. The DC DMV issues more than 623,000 driver licenses and identification credentials to District residents annually, highlighting the significance of this change.

Residents visiting DC DMV Service Centers to obtain or renew their driver license or ID card will receive the newly designed, updated security credential within 10-15 business days, mailed to the address DC DMV has on file. It's important to note that residents carrying the previous version of the DC credential can continue to use their license or ID card until it expires.

Director Robinson stressed the importance of this move, thanking both the DC DMV staff and Thales Group for their hard work and partnership. He encourages residents who are not REAL ID compliant to bring all necessary documents to a DC DMV Service Center to be issued a new, secure REAL ID credential.

The new design not only offers a unique, aesthetically pleasing look but, more importantly, serves as an additional layer of protection for DC residents. This announcement is a testament to the district's commitment to utilizing modern technology to safeguard the personal information of its residents.