New standard WA driver's licenses still won't get you through airport security after changes

Washington driver’s licenses are getting an upgrade, but they still won't help you get through the airport.

The state is rolling out new licenses this summer with enhanced security features to protect against identity theft.

Your current license is still valid, but you'll start seeing the new ones when it’s time to renew.

Despite the changes, Washington's standards licenses are still not in compliance with the Federal REAL ID Act, which means the new licenses won't work at TSA checkpoints starting in 2018.

Washington’s enhanced drivers licenses are approved for the Transportation Security Administration.

Eventually, Washington residents who only have standard licenses will need additional ID in order to board commercial aircraft. Unless lawmakers pass a law that puts the state in compliance or gets an extension from the government, Washington residents will need additional identification to board commercial flights starting on Jan. 22, 2018.

Washington is the only state in the country that does not require proof of legal presence in the U.S. to get a standard state driver's license or ID.

Washington State Department of Licensing said its newly designed driver licenses and ID cards are aimed at better protecting residents from identity theft.

The state will rollout the new cards over the next several months, beginning at its licensing office in Shelton. Sometime this summer, the rollout will have been extended to all 56 offices.

Cox Media Group