| For businesses and agencies that use Oregon ID |
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| Frequently Asked Questions |
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Why is DMV changing the way it issues driver licenses, instruction permits and identification cards?
Oregon DMV is going to start using “facial recognition” software, a new tool in the prevention of fraud, required by a new state law. The law is designed to prevent someone from obtaining a driver license or ID card under a false name. For more information, read the facial recognition FAQ and the centralized issuance FAQ.
What is the effect on businesses and government agencies?
Businesses and organizations that ask customers for identification will occasionally see an interim driver license, instruction permit or ID card. These organizations need to set their own policies for when customers hold an interim card.
When will DMV begin to issue interim cards?
DMV will begin shifting its offices to centralized issuance in Summer 2007. The law requiring DMV to shift to centralized issuance and to use facial recognition software set a July 2008 deadline. DMV is on schedule to meet that deadline.
What does the interim card look like?
The interim card looks like a black-and-white copy of the permanent license, permit or ID card. It is printed on plain paper and has all the same data as the permanent card – including the barcode. Its only security feature is that attempts to photocopy it will produce the word “VOID” on copies.
What is the purpose of the interim card?
The interim card is intended only as proof that the person has qualified at DMV to obtain, replace or renew a driver license, instruction permit or ID card. Oregon law requires drivers to carry their licenses at all times they are driving, so the interim card will allow them to drive while they wait for their permanent card.
How long is the interim card valid?
Although DMV customers typically will get their cards in five to 10 business days, the interim card will be valid for up to 30 days.
How should businesses and government agencies use the interim card?
The interim card verifies that an individual has qualified for driving privileges or an ID card, but it does not have the security features of a plastic laminated card. The interim card’s only security feature is that attempts to photocopy it will produce the word “VOID” on copies. Businesses and organizations that request identification from their customers need to set their own policies on whether to ask for additional identification from customers who carry an interim card.
Are requirements for customers to get an interim card different from getting a card over the counter?
Before DMV will issue an interim card, customers still must meet current Oregon requirements for an original, renewed or replacement license or ID card.
Will the permanent card change?
The permanent card will have the same security features as the card DMV has been issuing over the counter. The only difference is that it will be produced centrally instead of at DMV offices.
Do other states mail driver licenses to customers?
Oregon is adopting the same centralized-issuance process already in use in California, Washington and 11 other states, including states that have already begun using facial recognition software. In addition, mailing permanent cards has the added advantage of making it more difficult for non-Oregon residents to use a false Oregon address in order to fraudulently obtain an Oregon card.
What are the benefits for business and organizations of facial recognition?
Facial recognition software is designed to prevent someone from obtaining a driver license or ID card under someone else’s name or under multiple false names. Cards issued after July 1, 2008, will have passed this enhanced requirement. Although no card or procedure can end fraud and ID theft, facial recognition will make it more difficult to falsely obtain a card from DMV.
Does this have anything to do with the federal Real ID Act?
No. This is a state law from the 2005 Oregon Legislature. More on the Real ID Act and Oregon.
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| Questions |
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E-mail David House at for questions about facial recognition and centralized issuance.
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