REAL ID

New star and different material: This is the new Texas driver’s license | Is the old one still valid?

Texas unveils a redesigned driver’s license with new materials and a star icon. Find out if your current license is still valid and what’s changed.

Así puedes acceder a programas gratuitos para obtener el Real ID en Texas
Maite Knorr-Evans
Maite joined the AS USA in 2021, bringing her experience as a research analyst investigating illegal logging to the team. Maite’s interest in politics propelled her to pursue a degree in international relations and a master's in political philosophy. At AS USA, Maite combines her knowledge of political economy and personal finance to empower readers by providing answers to their most pressing questions.
Update:

Drivers in Texas will soon notice differences on the licenses they are issued, thanks to changes implemented by the state’s Department of Public Safety. The updates will also be visible on identification cards issued by the agency.

A look at the design changes

Not only with the state update the design of the cards, but also the material they are made from. According to the DPS press release, they will be made from a "tamper-resistant polycarbonate material that is difficult to reproduce and compliant with American Association of Motor Vehicle Administrators (AAMVA) standards."

As for the design, rather than a gold star, the new cards will "feature a black, laser-engraved star in the upper right corner to indicate REAL ID compliance." This change provides enhanced security, while also making it easier for the public to know whether or not they have a REAL ID. As of May 2025, a REAL ID or passport is needed to fly in the United States or enter a federal building.

Additionally, DPS argues that the new design reorganizes the cardholder’s information “in a clear and easy-to-read format for identification and verification purposes.”

Are previously issued unexpired IDs and licenses still valid?

The cards with the new designs began to be issued on August 18, but the state has made clear that if an individual is in possession of a license or ID with the old designs, they are still valid through the expiration date.

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