New Missouri Driver Licenses and Nondriver Identification Cards

Why is the Missouri Department of Revenue changing the format of driver licenses and nondriver identification cards, and changing the issuance process?

The changes enhance security and help reduce the risk of identity theft and other kinds of fraud. Driver licenses and nondriver identification cards will have new security features, and will be printed in one, secure facility.

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When will the new licenses and identification cards be issued?

Beginning in December, license offices around the state will be converted to the new process at the rate of about 15 offices per week. The rollout should be complete in April 2013.

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What documents do I need to bring with me to obtain a driver license or nondriver identification card?

You must provide documents to verify your name, date of birth, place of birth, social security number, and Missouri residential address. If you have a “mail-to” address in addition to your residential address, you also must provide proof of the mail-to address.

If you are renewing your driver license or nondriver identification card, the list of documents required can also be found on the back of your renewal postcard.

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What will change with this new program?

Applicants may still go to any Missouri license office they choose, and the application process and fees will remain the same. At the license office, applicants will receive a temporary, paper license and may keep the old license card which will be punched “VOID.” The permanent license will be produced at a single, secure facility, and arrive in the mail at an applicant’s home within 7 to 10 business days. Overall, time spent in the license office should decrease.

The license offices will scan all paperwork and securely transmit it to the central office. Outdated equipment in the license offices will be replaced with modern equipment.

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How is this new process more secure than handing me a driver license or nondriver identification card in the license office?

Mailing the license or identification card helps detect and prevent fraud and identity theft by requiring a valid address, and allows extra security precautions to be taken prior to issuing the permanent document, so that individuals who might pose as someone else will not be able to receive a license on the spot.

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How will the driver license or nondriver identification card be mailed so that it is not obvious there is a card inside?

The license or identification card will be mailed in a regular envelope through the U.S. Postal Service, similar to the way a credit card or passport is mailed. The envelope will be unmarked and will not suggest or reveal the contents.

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Does the change affect both driver licenses and nondriver identification cards?

Yes. All new and renewed driver licenses and nondriver identification cards will be issued in the new format, using the new process.

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What are the differences between the old and new licenses?

The new license includes security features such as a laser perforation (holding the license up to a light will reveal a “MO” perforation) and special printing that reacts to UV light. There’s even a special, vertical arrangement for under-21 licenses. Click here to review the new formats and security features.

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Will there be any additional costs for the temporary license or new license or nondriver identification card?

No.

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My driver license or nondriver identification card does not expire for a few more years. Do I need to do anything now?

No. The new license or nondriver identification card will be issued to you when you renew, apply for a duplicate, or change your address on your license or card.

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How long will it take to get my driver license or nondriver identification card in the mail?

You should receive your driver license or nondriver identification card within 7 to 10 business days.

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What happens if the post office is unable to deliver my driver license or nondriver identification card?

If the U.S. Postal Service cannot deliver your license or card to the address you provided, it will be returned to the Missouri Department of Revenue. The Department will hold the card for 30 days. If you do not contact us within 30 days indicating you did not receive the license or card, it will be destroyed. You may contact the Department at 573-526-2407 or dlbmail@dor.mo.gov for assistance.

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What will the temporary license look like?

It’s a paper document with the same identifying information and photo that will be on your permanent license or identification card. The state seal and the word “TEMPORARY” are printed with temperature-sensitive ink that fades with exposure to warmth. Use it like a normal license or nondriver identification card. Click here to review the new formats and security features.

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Does the temporary license expire?

Yes. The temporary license is only valid for 30 days from the date of issuance. The expiration date is printed on it.

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What if it appears that my driver license or nondriver identification card will not arrive before my temporary license expires? Do I have to come in to get another temporary license?

If you have not received your license or card and the expiration date of your temporary license is within a few days, you may contact the Department at 573-526-2407 or dlbmail@dor.mo.gov for assistance.

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If my temporary license is lost, stolen or destroyed can I get another one?

Yes. The duplicate license fee will be charged.

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Will businesses accept the temporary license as identification for cashing checks, buying alcohol or tobacco products, entering gambling facilities, and the like?

Although it is generally up to a business to decide what type of identification is acceptable to it, the Department is working to inform businesses about the new licenses and process. Because twenty-six other states already issue temporary licenses, some businesses may already be familiar with such kinds of documents. If you experience a problem with a business accepting your temporary license, please contact the Department at 573-526-2407 or dlbmail@dor.mo.gov. We will work with the business to try to resolve the issue.

Temporary license holders may also want to keep their old license (which will have been punched “VOID”) along with their temporary license until they receive the permanent one in the mail.

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Will the Social Security Administration, Transportation Security Administration and other government agencies accept the temporary license as identification?

U.S. federal agencies are familiar with the temporary license issued by other states. To ensure that Missouri’s temporary licenses will be recognized and accepted when issuance begins, the Department is working with federal entities, including airports, to inform them about the temporary license.

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Was this change required by the Federal Real ID Act?

No.

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How may I contact the Missouri Department of Revenue?

You may reach us by phone at 573-526-2407 or by e-mail at dlbmail@dor.mo.gov.

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