For Immediate Release
Date: July 11, 2005
Contact: Maura Browning
Phone: (573) 751-8222
No Big Snags for Show Me Proof Program
Most Customers Prepared for New Requirements
JEFFERSON CITY – The Missouri Department of Revenue announced Monday that the majority of Missourians have been prepared to Show Me Proof since the new law went into effect July 1. As a result of the new law, anyone obtaining or renewing a driver license, nondriver license, or instruction permit after July 1, 2005, is required to present proof of lawful presence, proof of identity, and proof of residence.
While customers have been less than enthused with the changes, a sampling of contract offices across the state shows that most customers are aware of the changes and have been prepared to present the appropriate information to show proof of lawful presence and proof of identity. Contract offices have reported that many customers have been unaware of the proof of residency requirement.
“I am very pleased that most of our customers have heard about Show Me Proof, and have responded in such a positive way,” said department director Trish Vincent. “I understand that the new requirements are a bit of a hassle, but the benefits of Show Me Proof greatly outweigh the costs.”
Governor Matt Blunt and various levels of law enforcement have voiced strong support for the Show Me Proof program. Department of Public Safety director Mark James, Homeland Security chief Michael Chapman, Missouri State Highway Patrol Superintendent Colonel Roger D. Stottlemyre, and Cole County Sheriff Greg White spoke about the changes last week.
Director James said last week he believes the new driver’s license requirements sends a positive message to citizens, ensuring the safety and security of Missourians will not be sacrificed. Unfortunately, the recent terrorist attacks in London drive the point home.
“While it may seem like an inconvenience for some, the reality is these few extra requirements will enhance our security by making it more difficult for terrorists and criminals to obtain fraudulent driver licenses. Let’s not forget the lessons we learned on 9-11 where many of those terrorist had falsified forms of ID obtained through these very systems.”
Contract offices in Poplar Bluff, Raytown, Republic, and South County reported that customers’ wait times have increased by 2 to 10 minutes since office employees must check several documents before issuing a license or permit. Jefferson City’s contract office reported no change in customer wait times.
Offices reported that between 1 percent and 10 percent of customers since last Friday have required a 60-day extension on the expiration date of their license, indicating that a great majority of customers have successfully obtained or renewed their license or permit on the first trip to the contract office.
Director Vincent commended her staff and the independent licensing office personnel for their work to educate their customers about these changes. “I really appreciate our customers and their quick adjustment to these new requirements, and also appreciate the hard work of the folks behind the counter at every license office who have been patient and who have helped explain the requirements when necessary.”
For detailed information about the new identification requirements, including a guide to obtaining the required documentation, please visit the department’s web site at www.dor.mo.gov or call (573) 751-2730. On the department’s web site, click the “Show Me Proof” icon to go directly to the new requirements.