Beginning Wednesday, July 31, Floridians receiving or replacing their driver’s licenses might notice something different: the addition of four numbers. In a release by the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV), a new statute passed by the State Legislature is requiring licenses and identification cards to include at least four randomly generated numbers.
This aims to help improve security and protect individuals’ identities. And once the number is issued, it won’t change again unless the driver’s last name changes.
“Customers renewing or replacing their license or identification cards in person or online will be issued a new number,” the press release reads. “Those applying for a first-time license or identification card will be issued a card that meets the new statutory requirements.”
Despite the number change, the card’s design format will stay the same. Those needing to renew their driver’s license or ID card online can do so at MyDMV Portal. You’d have to go in person if:
- You used the online convenience service on your last renewal
- Your existing driver’s license is not REAL ID compliant
- You wish to update your photo
- You want to change your name using an original or certified court order or marriage certificate
- You wish to add or remove a designation or has a court order to update your credential
- You’re getting a Florida driver’s license or ID card for the first time
- You hold a commercial driver’s license
- Your license has the word “TEMPORARY” printed on it
There’s no rush to get the new license, as REAL ID compliant licenses and IDs (issued since January 2010) are valid until their expiration date. For more information, visit the FLHSMV website.