TALLAHASSEE, FL — Florida drivers and residents will see a new look on their driver's licenses and identification cards as the state rolls out redesigned credentials featuring historic landmarks, native wildlife and enhanced security features.
The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles began issuing the new credentials Sept. 30 at service centers statewide, the agency said in a news release.
The front of the redesigned card features Castillo de San Marcos in St. Augustine, the oldest masonry fortress in the continental United States. Other Florida-inspired details include an orange incorporated into the word "Florida," a manatee in the bottom left corner and an alligator inside the REAL ID star, the news release said.
The back of the card features Space Shuttle Discovery, which completed 39 missions and spent 365 days in space before making its final landing in Florida on March 9, 2011. It also includes the motto "Let Us Alone," from Florida's first unofficial state flag.
Along with the updated appearance, the credentials incorporate additional security features, including an image of the state seal, to strengthen identity verification and help prevent fraud, the agency said.
The new design also includes a "Temporary Non-Domiciled" designation for commercial driver's licenses and commercial learner's permits.
Florida residents don't need to replace their current driver's licenses or identification cards because of the redesign. Existing valid credentials will remain in circulation until they expire and will be phased out over time.
The redesigned cards are expected to become available for online orders through MyDMVPortal.flhsmv.gov by early November.
See Also:
Sign up for free local newsletters and alerts for the
Tampa Patch
Patch.com is the nationwide leader in hyperlocal news.
Visit Patch.com to find your town today.