Input sought on new driver’s license language

YAKIMA, Wash. – State officials are asking for residents’ ideas on how to best explain on a standard driver’s license or ID card that it is not valid identification for use at airports and federal facilities.

Starting July 1, the state Department of Licensing will begin marking all standard driver’s licenses and ID cards with this language to prepare for Oct. 1, 2020, when the cards won’t be recognized by federal authorities.

The Department of Homeland Security also mandates the marking.

The state Department of Licensing has proposed writing “federal limits apply,” but Yakima residents will have an opportunity Wednesday to say if they believe that wording makes it clear where the card can be used.

“If someone suggests a better combination of words that better convey what we need to, we welcome it,” said Jessie Knudson, a department spokeswoman.

Yakima’s public hearing is the last of a series held across the state.

The public hearing starts at 6 p.m. Wednesday at the Laborers International Union Hall, 507 S. Third St.

The department anticipates submitting its proposed language to the Department of Homeland Security after this hearing and hopes to have it approved by early June, Knudson said.

Comments can also be submitted on the state Department of Licensing’s website. State enhanced driver’s licenses and enhanced ID cards are accepted at federal facilities.