The Washington State Department of Licensing is issuing a new style of driver license, identification card and instruction permit.
These new ID Cards are created using a new “digital imaging process”. The front of every card features a view of Mt. Rainier, large and
bolder printing that should be easier to read, and a digital portrait of the individual. Printed on the back are the individual’s endorsements and restrictions along with a
barcode containing machine readable information.
One of the more prominent changes is that the orientation for all “Under 21” cards will be vertical – portrait style for the pc literate – instead of horizontal – landscape style for the pc gurus. All of these
cards will also show the date when the individual turns 18 or 21 – EXAMPLE: AGE 21 ON 10-01-2002. This should make the card immediately recognizable as an “under age” document.
Everyone will receive a black and white temporary document – with a black and white photo – that is valid for 30 days
from the date of issue while the permanent (5 year) color document is being processed and mailed to the driver.
Based on the current renewal process, all licenses, instruction permits and identification card holders will be using the new style document by July, 2006. So remember, the current drivers license, ID card and instruction permits you are used to will still be out there for awhile.
On the cards issued prior to 2001, there is a tangerine colored bar in the center of the card. If the person was under 21 years old when they obtained their card, it is printing in the bar:
NOT 21 UNTIL 100102 (or whichever date applies)
Also, beginning July 1, 2000 through 2005, some drivers between 22 years of age to 65 years of age may receive an extension sticker in the mail. These stickers have the words “Extends to 2004 (or 2005), and are stuck to the current drivers license.
The Department of Licensing is making these changes to provide better service to their customers. For more information, check out the DOL website at:
http://www.wa.gov/dol/drivers/digfaq.htm
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