Tennessee unveils brand new license design

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN) — The state of Tennessee has changed driver license and photo identification card designs, the Department of Safety and Homeland Security (TDOSHS) announced Monday.

The cards have a “fresh design” and improved security features, the department said in a release. They now prominently feature an image of the Tennessee Capitol building on top of the state’s Tri-Star flag. The new design also features waves and patterns printed in very fine lines that are not able to be scanned or easily reproduced, according to the department.

According to a spokesperson with the department, the last major redesign of the state driver licenses was in 2011.

Per the release, the new cards are made with a “sturdy poly-carbonate composition” and incorporate cutting edge printing techniques. This includes elaborate overlapping of data and graphics and laser engraved elements that will show if the document has been altered or is fraudulent. A machine-readable barcode with applicable class, endorsements, and restrictions are printed on the back of the card. A mini ghost image repeated from the photograph is encoded elements for automated validation to help reduce identity theft.

“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.”

Those with valid driver licenses in Tennessee do not need to replace their current ID with one of the new design, according to the department. Previously issued driver licenses are valid until their expiration date listed. Tennesseans only need to receive a new card if theirs is expired or they need to change their address or name.

The new design will apply to all credentials issued by TDOSHS, including regular driver licenses, teen/graduated driver licenses, commercial driver licenses, motorcycle licenses, ID only licenses, REAL IDs and handgun carry permits.

Additionally, the new licenses will be slightly thicker than the current ones and more durable, according to a department spokesperson.

⏩ Read today’s top stories on wkrn.com

“We are excited about the added flexibility and convenience the new self-service kiosks will provide for Tennesseans,” said Commissioner Long. “Citizens can complete many Driver Services transactions at one of these new kiosks which will help reduce wait times at Driver Services Centers.”

A department spokesperson told News 2 the design was done through a collaborative effort with the department’s vendor and state personnel using American Association of Motor Vehicle Administrators standards for security and features.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKRN News 2.