Big Maryland Drivers License Changes for Fraud Protection

Maryland drivers licenses will soon have a new look, one that incorporates state symbols like the Oriole bird and provides added protection against identity theft.

Starting on June 20, the Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) will begin issuing the new cards, which transportation officials say will be less likely to be tampered with or forged thanks to features such as raised text, laser engraving and polycarbonate cards.

“Marylanders will be protected against identity theft and fraud with these new cards,” Transportation Secretary Pete K. Rahn said in a statement. “We are proud to safeguard their personal information.”

The licenses will be mailed out of a secure facility so that access to materials will be limited. Drivers who are getting new or renewed licenses will receive their cards through the U.S. Postal Service within 7 to 10 days or can pay extra for next-day delivery.

For those whose licenses are not up for renewal, there is no action required.

One new offering is the ability for veterans to identify themselves as such on their licenses.

“I know firsthand how proud Maryland veterans will be to finally have the veteran designation on the front of the new secure card,” Veterans Affairs Secretary George W. Owings said in a statement. “I want to thank the Department of Transportation for putting this important designation out front for those who have protected this nation, out front!”

According to the MVA, the last time Maryland licenses were redesigned was in 2003, and the old technology allows for counterfeiting and fraud.

Photo Credit: Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration.