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2013 Drivers License Change

Iowa driver's licenses (DL) and non-operator identification cards (IDs) will include new markings in order to comply with the REAL ID Act of 2005. Effective January 15, 2013, the Iowa Department of Transportation (DOT) began issuing DL and ID cards that may include one more more of the following markings.

  • Star verification mark
  • Limited-term mark
  • Veteran's designation

The star verification mark is a gold circle with a cut out star appearing in the upper right-hand corner of the DL or ID. This mark indicates the credential was issued in compliance with federal regulations promulgated under the REAL ID act of 2005. This is an indicator for federal security screeners. A valid Iowa DL or ID without the star verification mark remains valid for all identification purposes.

Limited-term mark is issued to persons who are temporary foreign nationals this marking will appear at the top center in black text. This marking is required by the REAL ID regulations and merely indicates to federal authorities that the card holder is a foreign national and not U.S. Citizen or permanent resident.

Veteran indicator shows that the card holder is a veteran of the U.S. armed forces. This indicator has no significance in regard to driving privilege or identity. Those who elect to include this designation on their DL or ID card will be verified with the Iowa Department of Veteran Affairs before the DL or ID is issued. 

For more information, visit http://www.iowadot.gov/mvd/realid/home.html 

Be sure to read over the Iowa DOT checklist before applying for or renewing your Iowa driver’s license or non-operators identification  card: DL & ID card brochure