Florida begins issuing new, more-secure drivers licenses

Florida Issues New, More-Secure Drivers License, Identification Cards

Florida officials use tactile security feature to increase security on drivers licenses and identification cards.

The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles began issuing new drivers licenses and identification cards at select service centers around Florida in May 2019.

Agency Executive Director Terry Rhodes said in a prepared statement that the change was made in efforts to secure the personal information of Florida residents and keep credentials secure.

“The release of this new credential is part of a continued effort to maintain the highest level of security for all Floridians,” Rhodes said.

The new credential features a tactile security feature and the removal of the magnetic strip on the back of the card.

Beside the new security features, the design of the card will be relatively similar to the version released in August 2017. It will still include specific designations for lifetime licenses as well as veteran, organ donor, deaf/hard of hearing, and developmentally disabled.

The old version of the identification card and license will continue to be used alongside the new card, and users are only required to replace their old card if it has reached its expiration or has a required change.

The new credentials are not available at all service centers at this time, but will be offered at all service centers by the end of August 2019.

About the Author

Kaitlyn DeHaven is the Associate Content Editor for the Infrastructure Solutions Group at 1105 Media.

Featured

  • The Future of Access Control: Cloud-Based Solutions for Safer Workplaces

    Access controls have revolutionized the way we protect our people, assets and operations. Gone are the days of cumbersome keychains and the security liabilities they introduced, but it’s a mistake to think that their evolution has reached its peak. Read Now

  • A Look at AI

    Large language models (LLMs) have taken the world by storm. Within months of OpenAI launching its AI chatbot, ChatGPT, it amassed more than 100 million users, making it the fastest-growing consumer application in history. Read Now

  • First, Do No Harm: Responsibly Applying Artificial Intelligence

    It was 2022 when early LLMs (Large Language Models) brought the term “AI” into mainstream public consciousness and since then, we’ve seen security corporations and integrators attempt to develop their solutions and sales pitches around the biggest tech boom of the 21st century. However, not all “artificial intelligence” is equally suitable for security applications, and it’s essential for end users to remain vigilant in understanding how their solutions are utilizing AI. Read Now

  • Improve Incident Response With Intelligent Cloud Video Surveillance

    Video surveillance is a vital part of business security, helping institutions protect against everyday threats for increased employee, customer, and student safety. However, many outdated surveillance solutions lack the ability to offer immediate insights into critical incidents. This slows down investigations and limits how effectively teams can respond to situations, creating greater risks for the organization. Read Now

  • Security Today Announces 2025 CyberSecured Award Winners

    Security Today is pleased to announce the 2025 CyberSecured Awards winners. Sixteen companies are being recognized this year for their network products and other cybersecurity initiatives that secure our world today. Read Now

New Products

  • AC Nio

    AC Nio

    Aiphone, a leading international manufacturer of intercom, access control, and emergency communication products, has introduced the AC Nio, its access control management software, an important addition to its new line of access control solutions.

  • Compact IP Video Intercom

    Viking’s X-205 Series of intercoms provide HD IP video and two-way voice communication - all wrapped up in an attractive compact chassis.

  • EasyGate SPT and SPD

    EasyGate SPT SPD

    Security solutions do not have to be ordinary, let alone unattractive. Having renewed their best-selling speed gates, Cominfo has once again demonstrated their Art of Security philosophy in practice — and confirmed their position as an industry-leading manufacturers of premium speed gates and turnstiles.