The South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles (SCDMV) today revealed the new designs for the state’s driver’s licenses and identification cards, set to begin rolling out this fall. The updated cards boast significantly enhanced security features and incorporate imagery celebrating South Carolina’s heritage and natural beauty.
The redesigned cards will prominently display symbols synonymous with the Palmetto State, including the Statehouse, the Palmetto Tree and Crescent from the state flag, and artistic tributes to the state flower, the Yellow Jessamine; the state bird, the Carolina Wren; and the state reptile, the Loggerhead Sea Turtle.
Beyond their new look, the updated credentials integrate more than 40 advanced security features. A key enhancement is a new production process that utilizes laser engraving technology, significantly increasing the cards’ durability and offering greater protection against counterfeiting and identity theft.
As part of this modernization, the SCDMV is transitioning to a centralized card issuance process. This method, already adopted by 45 other states, the District of Columbia, and several federal agencies, means that while customers will still visit SCDMV branches in person for applications, testing, and documentation, they will no longer receive their physical license or ID card on-site. Instead, customers will be issued a temporary certificate valid for up to 30 days and will receive their permanent card by mail within seven to fifteen business days. A QR code on the temporary certificate will allow customers to track their card’s production and mailing status. Expiring cards will be returned to the customer with a hole punch, retaining their validity as a photo ID where accepted until the new card arrives.
The SCDMV plans to pilot the new cards and issuance process in late August at two Midlands locations: the Columbia (Shop Road) and Lexington branches. A full statewide rollout is anticipated later in the fall.
The agency emphasizes that current cardholders are not required to take any immediate action, as all presently issued South Carolina licenses and ID cards will remain valid until their listed expiration dates. The new design and production process will apply to all types and classes of South Carolina licenses and ID cards, which will continue to be offered as both REAL ID compliant cards and Not For Federal Use (non-REAL ID compliant) cards. The SCDMV also advises customers not to wait until the last minute to renew, allowing ample time for mail delivery, and reminds them that renewal notices are sent 90 days prior to expiration. There will be no change in the cost of the new licenses and ID cards, maintaining South Carolina’s rates among the lowest in the Southeastern U.S.
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