State DMVs to close for new software

October 17, 2016

County Division of Motor Vehicle (DMV) offices across the state will close for half-day increments in late October or early November to install software in conjunction with new driver’s licenses and identification (ID) cards. The Boundary County DMV will be closed from 8 a.m. to noon Tuesday, November 1, Bonner County/Sandpoint DMV will be closed from 8 a.m. to noon Wednesday, November 2. As system changes occur and as personnel acclimate to the new system, slower service times can be expected at all locations. Click here for a sample of the new card. DMV worked with a new vendor to design the cards using leading-edge security features including:   • Blue/red colors that are the hardest colors to counterfeit   • Translucent window with a ghost image   • Optically Variable Ink image of the state insect You don’t have to get a card until your current license or ID expires, but you can renew it within 25 months of the expiration date. What’s the process for getting a new card   • Head to your local county driver’s licensing location to apply for a new license or ID.   • Receive a temporary paper document valid for 60 days.     - The temporary card is good for driving and ID purposes, and includes your photo and the same information that appears on the permanent plastic license or ID.     - If you plan to fly commercially using the temporary card, you may be asked to provide a second form of photo ID to the airline and the Transportation Security Administration.   • The permanent licenses and ID cards are produced at a central location and mailed to you within 10 business days. Mailing may take slightly longer during the initial implementation stages of the new license and ID cards.     - Important note: providing an accurate address is essential to receiving your license in a timely manner. Permanent licenses and ID cards will not be sent to a forwarding address because they are a secure document. While the new licenses and ID cards look different, the cost will remain the same:   • Four-Year License/ID cards - $30   • Eight-Year License/ID - $55   • Duplicate License - $15   • Duplicate ID - $20 The new card vendor, Marquis ID Systems - Gemalto, designed and will produce the new licenses and ID cards, including Concealed Weapons Permits. The company is a license provider for a number of states, including Alaska, Colorado, Hawaii, Wyoming, Maryland, New Hampshire and the District of Columbia.