New Minnesota License Designs Unveiled

MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) -- Your next Minnesota driver's license will have a new look.

State officials unveiled the new driver's license and state ID designs Monday afternoon.

The revamped looks will include vertical and horizontal designs and state of Minnesota branding. The vertical design will be for those under 21, which makes it easier for businesses to identify those not able to purchase items that are prohibited for minors.

Different color headings will also identify instruction permits, commercial driver's licenses and other card types.

The new cards also have a variety of security features -- making them more difficult to forge.

It's the first license design update since 2004.

You will not need to get a new license until your current one expires or you move or change your name.

The newly-designed drivers' licenses will not be REAL ID's. You can start applying for a REAL ID-compliant card in October.

However, you can still use your regular driver's license to get on airplanes until Oct. 1, 2020.

The new look will be issued beginning Aug. 6.