Increased security for drivers' licences

Drivers getting a new licence will notice a new holographic overlay embedded with the State's floral emblem, the Kangaroo Paw.

  • Holographic overlay provides security upgrade
  • Kangaroo Paw and State of Western Australia reflected in new card 

Drivers getting a new licence will notice a new holographic overlay embedded with the State's floral emblem, the Kangaroo Paw.

Transport Minister Dean Nalder said the upgrade was part of the State Government's commitment to secure a driver's identity and maintain international best-practice.

"Licence cards will now be printed with a new holographic overlay to make forgery, fraudulent activity and identity crime even more difficult," Mr Nalder said

While the changes to the overlay are quite subtle, they would make a big impact.

All licence, identification and WA Photo ID cards provided by the Department of Transport now have: 

  • specialised background printing methods
  • sophisticated graphic design elements, including guilloche patterns
  • deep laser printing of personalised information
  • cardholder's date of birth laser engraved at base of photo
  • a unique serial number on each licence card
  • a barcode. 

There are also covert security features included on the cards that have been withheld to protect their integrity.

Fact File

Minister's office - 6552 6400