Security upgrades built into new driver license/ID cards

The Wisconsin Department of Transportation Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) announces new driver license and identification (ID) cards, with updated security features. The new cards debuted June 5, with new design elements built within the cards to make them more resistant to fraud.

The new cards feature artistic, hard-to-replicate designs woven throughout, creating a more secure, customized card, as well as transparent windows visible on the card’s right edge and back bottom edge. The advanced manufacturing process allows the clear ribbon to flow right off the edge of the card and is integrated with cardholder data. Wisconsin is the first to have this unique security feature.

They also have a distinct “flipping effect,” when angling the card one way, the secondary photo is visible, while at another angle, the month and year of birth can be seen. This unique feature is hard to duplicate and/or counterfeit.

For those who participate in the life-giving organ donation registry, the orange dot is now nestled in the larger sugar maple leaf, and the noticeable vertical format on cards for those under age 21 continues and will incorporate blue/red color themes for rapid visual recognition. Cards for those over age 21 are horizontal and have a blue/gold theme.

The upgraded security features will be available on regular and REAL ID cards. The fee remains the same. The laserengraved version currently in circulation debuted in September 2015. These will remain valid until their expiration date. Cards with the new features will be issued upon renewal, replacement or first issuance. There is no requirement to get a new card, but customers may replace their card with the latest features by ordering a replacement.