State issues new regulations on driver’s licenses

Beginning in January 2010, Hoosiers can obtain a federally compliant driver’s license or identification card at the Bureau of Motor Vehicles.

The issuance of compliant cards is required by the federal government, and must be completed by all states by the end of 2016.

"We encourage citizens to obtain a SecureID license when it is time to renew, but we’re giving everyone the full six-year period in order to maximize convenience," Governor Mitch Daniels said in a press release. "Our BMV is now nationally recognized for its short visit times and friendly customer service, and we intend to keep it that way."

Individuals seeking to renew, amend or apply for a new license or ID card will be required to obtain the new federally compliant card.

However, individuals currently holding an active license or ID card do not have to make the switch until 2016, though the state warns that such individuals might have problems boarding an aircraft or entering certain federal buildings.

New license holders and ID customers will be required to obtain a compliant card, and thus provide documentation of identity, lawful status, social security and residency.

Also, in order to reduce fraud and identity theft, the BMV will implement centralized issuance of cards.

After checking photos across a statewide database, the BMV will then mail the cards to customers within a 10 day period. This process will be enacted in 25 other states by the end of the year.