Florida redesigns driver’s licenses to add security features and state symbols

Florida has redesigned its driver’s license and identification card with new safety features and to incorporate state symbols into the document.

Read more Fact Check: Where candidates Ashley Moody and Angie Nixon stand on healthcare

The first redesign in nearly a decade, changes available Wednesday include a background image of St. Augustine-based Castillo de San Marcos, an orange in the “O” of Florida and a manatee in the bottom left.

“The integrity of our credential is most important,” Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles Executive Director Dave Kerner told the Cabinet on Tuesday.

There is also a Florida alligator incorporated into the REAL ID star in the top right-hand corner of each card, while the back features an image of the Space Shuttle Discovery and the motto from the state’s first unofficial flag: “Let Us Alone.”

Read more Democrats revive call for DeSantis to suspend Florida’s gas tax

“From the manatee, alligator, palm and cypress trees to the space shuttle, Castillo de San Marcos and the state’s original and current mottos, the new license comes at a great time, as we celebrate the nation’s 250th anniversary,” said Gov. Ron DeSantis.

An image of the state seal is used as an enhanced security feature.

Current license and ID holders do not have to get a new card until their current one expires.

This story was originally published September 30, 2026 at 4:22 PM with the headline “Florida redesigns driver’s licenses to add security features and state symbols.”

Read more Florida may require religious exemption for school employee head coverings