COLUMBIA, S.C. – South Carolinians will soon be carrying driver’s licenses and ID cards with a bold new look. The South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles (SCDMV) has announced a redesign of the state’s licenses and ID cards, featuring vibrant images that highlight the Palmetto State’s natural beauty and heritage—along with major upgrades in security.
Rolling out this fall, the new cards will include artistic elements such as the Statehouse, the palmetto tree and crescent from the state flag, and tributes to the state flower (Yellow Jessamine), bird (Carolina Wren), and reptile (Loggerhead Sea Turtle).
“These new licenses and ID cards showcase the Palmetto State while providing citizens with greater protection against becoming victims of identity fraud,” said Kevin Shwedo, Executive Director of the SCDMV.
The redesign also adds over 40 advanced security features and uses laser engraving technology to make the cards more durable and resistant to tampering or counterfeiting.
A notable change with the rollout is a shift to centralized card production. Instead of receiving their license or ID at the DMV office, customers will now be given a temporary certificate on-site. The permanent card will arrive by mail within 7–15 business days. The temporary certificate is valid for up to 30 days and may be used for driving, voting, and identification purposes. A QR code on the certificate allows users to track their card’s status.
The new process will begin piloting in late August at the Columbia (Shop Road) and Lexington DMV branches, with a full statewide launch expected later this fall.
SCDMV wants customers to keep in mind:
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No action is needed for current license and ID holders — existing cards remain valid until their expiration dates.
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The new design applies to all SC license and ID types, including both REAL ID and standard cards.
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Plan ahead and allow time for mail delivery when renewing. Renewal notices are sent 90 days before expiration.
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There is no increase in cost for the new licenses and IDs — South Carolina continues to offer some of the most affordable rates in the Southeast.
The inclusion of native wildlife on the new card design has received praise from conservation leaders.
“The inclusion of iconic native species serves as a powerful reminder of our responsibility to protect South Carolina’s remarkable wildlife,” said Greg Peccie, Vice President of Animal Care at Riverbanks Zoo and Garden.
For more information or to view FAQs about the new cards and process, visit scdmvonline.com.