All new SC driver’s licenses & ID Cards coming soon, DMV says. Here’s when, what changes to expect
If you’re planning to renew your driver’s license or ID Card in South Carolina this fall, prepare for some changes.
The South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles is set to issue redesigned driver’s licenses, beginner’s permits and identification cards this fall, a press release states. The new cards will be made of upgraded materials and feature advanced security features to better safeguard customer identities and personal information.
Along with the upgrades this fall, the DMV will no longer issue same-day driver’s licenses and ID cards, but instead mail them.
Meanwhile, current South Carolina driver’s licenses and ID cards will remain valid until their listed expiration dates.
SC driver’s license upgrades
The new cards will be made of stronger materials and will include state-of-the-art printing techniques, such as laser engraving, which should make them more resistant to counterfeiting, the press release states.
The new design will also highlight South Carolina symbols, such as the Palmetto tree and the State House, making the new credentials secure and symbolic of the state.
“First and foremost, these updates will better protect South Carolinians from becoming victims of identity fraud,” Kevin Shwedo, executive director of the SCDMV, said in the press release. “Additionally, they will provide a more secure and reliable credential for law enforcement, merchants, retailers, and other parties who count on the authenticity of the licenses and identification cards we issue.”
SC cards by mail
Residents will still apply for licenses or ID cards in person at SC DMV branches this fall. They’ll also still need to present required documentation and complete applicable testing.
“However, under the new process, customers will receive a temporary driving certificate or identification certificate valid for driving, voting and other uses while awaiting their permanent card to arrive by U.S. mail,” the press release states.
The DMV has decided to centralize the production of all licenses, permits and ID cards — a process adopted in at least 45 states. By centralizing the process, the DMV can better include high-level security elements not feasible with the way current South Carolina credentials are issued, the press release adds.
