New driver license designs, kiosks debut

The Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security announced Monday, Aug. 19 that it would begin issuing driver licenses and ID cards with a fresh design and improved security features along with new self-service kiosks, which can reduce wait times at Driver Service Centers. The new credentials and kiosks will expand to all Driver Service Centers over the next few months.

The new cards feature Tennessee’s state capitol and flag, with waves and patterns printed in fine lines that can’t be scanned or easily reproduced. Security and printing techniques used in card production include overlapping of data and graphics and laser engraved elements that will show if the document has been altered or is fraudulent.

“The new Tennessee Driver Licenses incorporate the latest technology which makes them more difficult to counterfeit, alter, or duplicate,” said TDOSHS Commissioner Jeff Long. “These countermeasures help prevent theft and fraud and help keep your identity safe.”

There is no need for citizens to obtain a new driver license or ID unless their current credential has reached its expiration or a required change is needed, such as a name or address change.

Tennesseans can use the self-service kiosk to complete transactions including renewing or replacing a duplicate driver license or ID card, changing an address, updating emergency contact information, advancing a teen/graduated driver license, paying reinstatement fees, and requesting a license reissue after reinstatement requirements are met. The new kiosks can take photos and process payments with Apple Pay, Google Pay, or a credit or debit card.