Starting today, California is issuing newly designed driver’s licenses and identification cards featuring advanced security elements and showcasing the state’s iconic redwoods, poppies, and coastline. These updated cards include next-generation technology such as a digital security signature embedded in one of the barcodes on the back, making California one of the first states to implement this feature. The new design also eliminates the magnetic strip previously found on the cards.
Current driver’s licenses and ID cards remain valid until their expiration date; there is no requirement to replace them early. Fees remain unchanged at $45 for driver’s licenses and $39 for identification cards.
To save time, the DMV recommends using online services for many transactions, such as renewals, and encourages customers to create a MyDMV account at dmv.ca.gov/mydmv to receive paperless renewal notices. Use the DMV’s Service Advisor online tool to explore options for completing DMV tasks without an office visit.
