PennDOT Phases in Newly Designed Driver Licenses, ID Cards

The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) announced this week it is updating the design and enhancing security features of its driver licenses and identification cards.

All driver license and photo centers will transition to the new products by mid-November. The new products will be phased in over the next four-year renewal cycle, so license and ID card holders can continue using their existing cards until they are up for renewal. The new cards look different and have additional enhanced security features that improve fraud prevention and protect from counterfeiting and alteration.

Both standard and REAL ID compliant products will use the new design and security features. REAL ID is optional in Pennsylvania; however, beginning May 3, 2023, Pennsylvanians will need a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license, photo ID card, or another form of federally acceptable identification (such as a valid passport or military ID) to board a domestic commercial flight or enter a federal building or military installation that requires ID.