Florida Begins Issuing Redesigned Driver Licenses

Florida began issuing redesigned driver licenses and identification cards at service centers statewide on September 30, adding state symbols and an image of the state seal that officials describe as an enhanced security feature. Existing valid credentials remain usable until they expire, and holders are not required to replace them immediately. The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles announced the rollout after Gov. Ron DeSantis presented the new design at a Cabinet meeting on September 29. Residents are expected to be able to order the credentials online through the department’s portal by early November, according to the rollout information. The new cards feature Castillo de San Marcos as a background image on the front, an orange forming the “O” in Florida, and a manatee in the lower-left corner. An alligator appears within the REAL ID star in the upper-right corner. The back displays Space Shuttle Discovery and the motto “Let Us Alone,” which officials identify as coming from Florida’s first unofficial state flag. The department’s executive director, Dave Kerner, said credential integrity was important.