The updated cards come with extra security features to make them harder to fake and easier to verify. Older cards are still good until they expire, so you don’t need to rush to replace yours. “These new cards will make it even more difficult for criminals to produce counterfeits, and they add another layer of protection for Texans’ identities,” said Sheri Gipson, Chief of the DPS Driver License Division. **A Quick REAL ID Reminder** Yes — these new cards are REAL ID–compliant. Texas has actually been issuing REAL ID licenses since 2016. That means your license will work for federal identification purposes, like boarding a domestic flight or entering certain federal buildings. However, instead of the familiar gold star, the new version uses a black, laser-engraved star in the top right corner.