AZ driver's licenses have a secret feature you might not know about
Arizona driver's licenses and identification cards have a slew of special design elements meant to represent the state, but there's one hidden feature you might not know about.
The Arizona Department of Transportation took the opportunity to upgrade the cards in 2023 with a new design and a slate of security features.
"It was an opportunity to incorporate a bunch of technology into what is perceived as a plastic card," said ADOT spokesperson Bill Lamoreaux.
One of those upgrades is a special image that is only visible under black light, something most Arizonans might not have noticed.
Here's what to know about the hidden designs visible on Arizona driver's licenses, plus some more features you may not have noticed.
One of the most unique features of Arizona IDs are a special design visible only under black light, which was originally reported by the Phoenix New Times.
When held under a black light, the front of the ID shows a howling coyote and the back features a Monument Valley scene at night and a scorpion. Embedded in both designs is the "Grand Canyon State," which is the state's nickname.
Though the black light design wasn't highlighted when the new card was revealed, the feature helps make the ID cards more secure.
"It was a great way for law enforcement or security to verify that the card presented to them is a legitimate Arizona card so under black light you can see those designs," Lamoreaux said.
There are other unique design touches to the driver's license and ID cards, all of which were carefully selected to represent the Grand Canyon State.
"We wanted to incorporate touches of Arizona for everyone as well," Lamoreaux said.
Ringtail: The state mammal is clearly visible on IDs. It became the state mammal in 1986 and is related to racoons and coati.
Rays of light: This design feature pays homage to Arizona's flag.
Saguaro: This saguaro cactus is an Arizona icon, so it's only fitting that it appears on the IDs.
Ponderosa pine: The ponderosa pine was also included in the design to show the different climates in Arizona.
Black and white photo: This license switched from color photos to black and white photos. The black and white photo is laser engraved and makes it "less likely to be tampered with and have fake cards out there from Arizona," Lamoreaux said.
Those Arizonans who have the Arizona Real ID — also called the Arizona Travel ID — will notice their IDs have a gold or black star in the top right corner.
After years of delaying full implementation of the requirement that people have a security-enhanced Real ID to pass airport security, board airplanes or enter federal buildings, anyone who doesn't have a Real ID will be turned away starting May 7, 2025.
"Now is a great time to (update your ID) if you don't have the travel ID yet because May 7 is here before you know it and if you fly that's the fastest way to get past TSA," Lamoreaux said.
Arizona Republic reporter Michael Salerno contributed to this article.
This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Arizona IDs have a hidden feature. Have you seen it?
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