New Year! New Gear!

The state of Michigan is issuing new license plates and new IDs.

If you do not update your ID and driver's license soon, you may be in hot water.

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Michigan Department of State Launches Green and White License Plates

In December, the Michigan Department of State announced that it would bring back the green and white "Water Wonderland" license plates.

Michigan.gov
Michigan.gov
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This plate will be similar to one that was issued in 1963. 60 years ago, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and UAW President Walter Reuther led the Walk to Freedom in Detroit.

This "Water Wonderland" license plate honors that historic year.

Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson shared how 'proud' she feels about bringing back the license plates.

"I am proud to bring back a green and white plate that pays tribute to the civil rights advancements of 1963 along with a new, more secure Michigan driver's license and ID. The new plate will serve as a reminder of the work that still needs to be done to achieve full equality and justice for all. The new ID design will protect Michiganders from identity theft, fraud, and other criminal activity."

The "Water Wonderland" plate will be available for passenger vehicles and can be purchased as a disability plate, as well.

You can order the new "Water Wonderland" license plate starting on Saturday, January 27th online, or when you purchase a vehicle at a dealership.

Updated Security on Michigan Driver's Licenses and State IDs

Michigan.gov
Michigan.gov
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It will also start giving out Michigan driver's licenses and state IDs with a new security design in 2024.

The licenses and IDs will include engraved data and other security features to reduce the risk of counterfeiting and fraud.

Michigan's official website states that,

"The font and color theme have been updated to clearly distinguish from the current design and cards will prominently display the Michigan Coat of Arms. The names of the five Great Lakes can be seen in multicolored text when the card is held at certain angles. Shading and curved lines in the new design are difficult to replicate, strengthening the integrity of the cards."

The state will also use a gold Michigan shape with a star to indicate licenses and IDs that are REAL ID-compliant.

Michigan.gov
Michigan.gov
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As of May 7th, 2025, if you have a standard Michigan driver's license or ID without the REAL ID-complaint indicator, you will not be able to board a plane for a domestic flight or enter a military base or federal facilities.

If you want more details, you can find them here.

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