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DMV begins new licensing process
Wednesday, May 20, 2009 2:08 PM EDT
RICHMOND - The Department of Motor Vehicles recently began implementing its new method of issuing driver's licenses and identification cards.
Rather than issuing credentials over the counter at customer service centers, DMV has began issuing credentials by mail from a secure, central production facility in Danville near the airport.
Customers in the Tappahannock Customer Service Center were the first to experience the new process.
The Danville branch will begin the new process on May 27.
Sometime in July, all 74 customer service centers are expected to be using the new process, Melanie Stokes, media representative of the department said.
Despite the new process, little will change for the customers, she added.
"The changes will not affect the rates," Stokes added. "The only major change for the customer is how they receive the license. They won't be able to walk out with a new license anymore"
Virginians will continue to apply for licenses and ID cards at DMV customer service centers. Photographs will be taken at the beginning of the transaction instead of at the end.
Customers who meet the requirements will be issued temporary driving permits or ID card receipts, which are valid for 30 days.
The new credential will be in the mail within three business days.
According to Stokes, the new process enhances security, lowers the risks of fraud and decreases the use of false addresses.
It also eliminates the appeal for people who are trying to illegally obtain a Virginia license since they won't be issued on the spot anymore.
"The cards have dozens of security features, the most notable being a clear window, containing a black and white photograph of the cardholder, visible from the front and back of the card," Stokes stated in a press release. "Both of the cards' photos are laser engraved, making them almost impossible to replace or alter."
Other features include, security lettering and ultraviolet features that can be used by officials to verify authenticity.
The new cards feature images of the state capitol building and the dogwood, the state's flower.
Cards will be systematically issued as customers renew or apply for new cards.
Stokes said customers can keep their current cards until a new one is needed. She did ask however, that everyone updates their address with the DMV.
Fifteen U.S. states already issue driver's licenses and ID cards through a centralized process including Alabama, California, Colorado, Kansas, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, New York, Rhode Island, Texas, Utah, Washington and Wyoming.
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