AZ driver's licenses have a secret feature you might not know about

Yahoo! News - Apr 13th, 2025

Arizona's Department of Transportation has introduced new driver's licenses and ID cards in 2023, featuring a range of enhanced security measures and design elements representing the state. A standout feature is a hidden design visible only under black light, showcasing a howling coyote and a Monument Valley scene. This innovation aims to help law enforcement and security personnel quickly verify the authenticity of the IDs. Additionally, those who possess the Arizona Real ID will notice a gold or black star, marking compliance with federal requirements effective from May 7, 2025.

These updates are not only about security but also incorporate cultural and geographic elements significant to Arizona, reflecting the state's identity. The introduction of these features is part of a broader move towards enhancing ID security nationwide, particularly as the deadline for Real ID compliance approaches. This update emphasizes the importance of Arizonans obtaining the Real ID to ensure smooth travel and access to federal facilities, highlighting the practical implications for residents as the 2025 deadline looms closer.

Real Id Arizona Department Of Transportation Bill Lamoreaux Arizona I Ds Security Features Blacklight Design

Story submitted by Fairstory

RATING

7.8

Fair Story

Consider it well-founded

The article provides a clear and informative overview of the recent updates to Arizona driver's licenses and ID cards, focusing on new design and security features. It is accurate in its presentation of the information, primarily relying on credible sources such as the Arizona Department of Transportation. The article is timely and relevant, addressing a topic that affects a wide audience, particularly with the upcoming Real ID requirements. However, it could benefit from a broader range of perspectives and greater transparency regarding the development of these features. While it is unlikely to provoke significant controversy, it effectively informs the public about important changes, encouraging compliance with new identification standards.

Accuracy

The article accurately describes the recent updates to Arizona driver's licenses and ID cards, highlighting the new design and security features. It mentions a hidden black light feature, which is a factual claim supported by the Arizona Department of Transportation's (ADOT) documentation. The inclusion of specific elements like the 'howling coyote' and 'Monument Valley scene' under black light is consistent with the information available from official sources. However, the verification of these specific design elements and their exact role in security applications could benefit from direct citations from ADOT or similar authoritative bodies.

Balance

The article primarily presents the perspective of the Arizona Department of Transportation through spokesperson Bill Lamoreaux. While it provides a clear explanation of the new features and their intended purposes, it lacks viewpoints from other stakeholders, such as law enforcement officials who might use these features or citizens who have experienced the new IDs. Including a broader range of perspectives could enhance the balance and provide a more comprehensive understanding of the topic.

Clarity

The article is well-structured and uses clear, straightforward language to explain the updates to Arizona driver's licenses. It logically presents the information, starting with the new design and security features, followed by specific details about the hidden black light feature and other unique elements. The tone is neutral and informative, making the content accessible and easy to understand for a general audience.

Source quality

The article cites an ADOT spokesperson, which is a credible source for information regarding state-issued identification cards. The inclusion of a contribution from Arizona Republic reporter Michael Salerno adds to the reliability. However, the article would benefit from additional sources, such as independent experts in security technology or law enforcement officials, to corroborate the claims made by ADOT about the effectiveness of the new security features.

Transparency

The article provides a clear explanation of the new features on Arizona driver's licenses and IDs, including the rationale behind these updates. However, it doesn't delve into the methodology or process behind the selection of these features, nor does it disclose any potential conflicts of interest. Greater transparency regarding how these features were developed and selected could improve the reader's understanding of the decision-making process.