The Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) has officially started issuing a new driver’s license and identification card for Floridians. The new driver’s license was not very well received by Florida residents, however, as many disliked the changes, ranging from a phrase present on the document to a person’s citizenship status and even the overall design.
According to the FLHSMV, Floridians who want to update their credentials or get a new driver’s license will receive the new model starting today. In early November, residents will be able to order the license online.
The new document comes with an updated design, featuring an image of the state seal and “enhanced security features.” The goal is reportedly to protect users from fraud and strengthen the ID verification process. The new design also features the motto “Let Us Alone,” coined by Governor William D. Moseley early in Florida’s history.
Residents who already have a driver’s license will only be forced to update to the new design when their current document expires.
Floridians Are Not Happy With New Driver Licenses
Floridians on r/Florida were far from happy with the changes, however. One point that really irritated locals was one of the “improved security measures,” which will show who is or is not a permanent resident. One user wrote: “It shows if you are a citizen or a foreigner. Now how will that be used when you get pulled over or asked for ID?”
Someone questioned this, however, saying: “It’s always showed “temporary” for people who aren’t citizens or permanent residents. They changed the language on CDLs a bit.” The person responded: “No. Its for all licenses. It will have C if you are a citizen and NC if you are not. You have to prove citizenship when you renew next.”
Another issue locals had was the phrase used on the ID: “Using the phrase ‘let us alone’ was certainly a choice for a Southern state in 1845. Using it now seems like a really similar choice.” Others agreed: “That ‘Let Us Alone’ taken in context is such a massive dog whistle. Shameful.”
Some folks also disliked the new license for non-political reasons: “The one we had before the current one was the best. Had the sunset over the beach and felt very Florida. These new ones are bland.”
It remains to be seen how the new document will be accepted, but locals can’t do much except hold on to their old driver’s licenses until they expire if they dislike the new one.
