COLUMBIA, S.C. (WRDW/WAGT) – The South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles says it is rolling out new driver’s licenses this fall.

The department says it will begin issuing redesigned driver’s licenses, beginner’s permits and identification cards that include advanced security features and upgraded materials.

Officials say this is to better safeguard customer identities and personal information.

The updated cards will be made from “stronger materials” and will incorporate laser engraving, making them significantly more resistant to counterfeiting.

The design will also highlight South Carolina symbols, including the Palmetto Tree, the State House, and other state emblems, making the new credentials both secure and symbolic of the Palmetto State, according to a press release.

“This change modernizes the way we produce licenses and ID cards to make them more secure and reduce the chance of counterfeiting,” said Kevin Shwedo, Executive Director of the SCDMV. “First and foremost, these updates will better protect South Carolinians from becoming victims of identity fraud. Additionally, they will provide a more secure and reliable credential for law enforcement, merchants, retailers, and other parties who count on the authenticity of the licenses and identification cards we issue.”

As part of the change, the SCDMV will also centralize the production of all licenses, permits and ID cards—a process already adopted in at least 45 states and the District of Columbia.

According to officials, central issuance will enhance service efficiency and allow for high-level security elements to be included on South Carolina-issued credentials.

Because of the new centralization process, the SCDMV will no longer be issuing same-day licenses.

Beginning this fall, customers will still apply for licenses or ID cards in person at SCDMV branches, presenting required documentation and completing applicable testing. However, under the new process, customers will receive a temporary driving certificate or identification certificate valid for driving, voting, and other uses while awaiting their permanent card to arrive by U.S. mail.

Existing cards will be returned to customers with a hole punched through them and may continue to serve as temporary photo identification where accepted.

What you need to know:

• No immediate action is required. Current South Carolina driver’s licenses and identification cards remain valid until their listed expiration dates.
• Customers nearing expiration are encouraged not to wait until the last day to renew, as centrally issued cards will take 7–15 business days to arrive by mail.
• The SCDMV sends renewal notices by mail 90 days prior to expiration to help ensure timely renewal.

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