Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has recently signed legislation that will bring significant changes to the state’s driver’s license requirements. The new law, which is set to take effect on January 1, 2023, aims to improve the security and integrity of Florida driver’s licenses and identification cards.
One of the key provisions of the new law is the requirement for all applicants to provide additional documentation to prove their identity. Under the current law, applicants are only required to provide one form of identification, such as a birth certificate or a passport. However, under the new law, applicants will be required to provide two forms of identification, one of which must be a primary form of identification, such as a birth certificate, passport, or permanent resident card. This additional requirement is aimed at reducing identity theft and fraud.
In addition to the new identification requirements, the new law also includes provisions aimed at improving the security features of Florida driver’s licenses. One of the most significant changes is the introduction of a new, more secure driver’s license design. The new design will feature enhanced security features, such as holographic images, raised printing, and a bar code that can be scanned for verification purposes. These new security features are designed to make it more difficult for counterfeiters to produce fake driver’s licenses.
Another important change included in the new law is the requirement for all driver’s license and identification card holders to renew their credentials in person every eight years. Under the current law, individuals aged 79 and younger are only required to renew their driver’s licenses every eight years, with the option to renew by mail or online. However, under the new law, all individuals, regardless of age, will be required to renew their driver’s licenses in person every eight years. This new requirement is aimed at ensuring that individuals are maintaining current and accurate information on their driver’s licenses.
In addition to the new identification requirements and security features, the new law also includes provisions aimed at improving the process for obtaining a Florida driver’s license. One of the key changes is the introduction of a new online portal that will allow individuals to schedule appointments for driver’s license services, such as applying for a new license or renewing an existing license. This online portal is designed to streamline the process for obtaining a driver’s license and reduce wait times at driver’s license offices.
Overall, the new law represents a significant step forward in improving the security and integrity of Florida driver’s licenses. By requiring additional documentation to prove identity, introducing new security features, and streamlining the process for obtaining a driver’s license, the new law aims to protect individuals from identity theft and fraud, while ensuring that driver’s license information is current and accurate. Governor DeSantis expressed his confidence that these changes will help to make Florida driver’s licenses among the most secure and reliable in the country.
