by Houston, TX – Texas state officials unveiled a redesigned driver’s license and identification card on August 18, 2025, featuring new tamper-resistant material and added security measures aimed at preventing counterfeiting and identity theft.
The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) confirmed that previously issued licenses and ID cards will remain valid until their printed expiration dates.
The new design updates card material and visible markers used to indicate REAL ID compliance. Officials say these changes will improve identity verification and strengthen public safety across both federal and state settings.
Why the Change Matters
According to DPS, the redesigned licenses are made from polycarbonate, a material that is difficult to duplicate and compliant with American Association of Motor Vehicle Administrators (AAMVA) standards. Authorities expect the move to significantly reduce counterfeit production and help curb identity theft.
Other states, including Alaska, New York, Maryland, and Colorado, have already adopted polycarbonate licenses, often incorporating security features such as holograms, UV ink, and laser engravings.
Key Details for Texas Residents
All new driver’s licenses and ID cards issued after August 18 will use the updated design. Older cards will remain valid until they expire.
One of the most noticeable updates is the replacement of the gold star marking REAL ID compliance with a black, laser-engraved star in the upper right corner. The card layout also reorganizes personal information for clearer verification.
DPS last redesigned Texas licenses in 2020, when polycarbonate features and the gold star were first introduced.
“The way driver’s licenses are made can make a big difference in terms of public safety,” said Sheri Gipson, DPS Driver License Division Chief. “This new card design will make it even more difficult for criminals to produce counterfeit cards, and it enhances ways we can protect Texans’ identities from being stolen.”
Labor Day Impaired Driving Campaign
In addition to the new license rollout, the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) announced a Labor Day impaired-driving enforcement initiative. The campaign, called STEP IDM, will run through September 1 in partnership with local law enforcement across East Texas.
Last year, the Labor Day weekend saw 327 alcohol-related DUI crashes across Texas, including 10 fatalities, according to KLTV News.
