Example of the redesigned California driver's license. DMV photo

The DMV this week began issuing a redesigned driver’s license with the latest security technology to protect against fraud, tampering and counterfeiting.

Perhaps the biggest change is for drivers younger than 21. The information on their licenses will be printed vertically so that it is easier for bars, nightclubs and police to see that the person is under age.

Other changes include that the driver’s date of birth and signature will be raised lettering that can be felt by touch, there’s a photo of the driver that can be seen only with ultraviolet light, a second bar code on the back of the license replicates and verifies only the information on the front of the card (similar to the current magnetic strip) and a laser perforation outline of the California brown bear that can be seen on the license only when a flashlight is pressed against the back of the license.

The new license is being issued to new drivers and those renewing their licenses. All current licenses remain valid until they expire. The DMV also redesigned ID cards.

The DMV each year issues more than 8.25 million driver license and ID cards to Californians. This is the first major revision of California driver’s licenses and ID cards since 2001.

Example of a new driver's license for those younger than 21. DMV photo.

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