The Puerto Rico Department of Transportation and Public Works (DTOP) is updating identification cards issued through the Driver Services Center (CESCO) following the signing of a new law proposed by Governor Jenniffer González Colón on December 14th. The changes aim to more clearly identify cardholders based on age and disability status.
New Identification Features
The updated identification cards will indicate if the holder is under 21 years of age, over 60, or over 75. Cards will also denote if the individual has a functional diversity or hearing impairment. Age indicators will appear at the bottom right of the photo, while symbols representing functional diversity or hearing impairment will be located in the lower right corner of the card.
According to DTOP Secretary Edwin González Montalvo, the changes were prompted by the new “Uniform Law of Supplementary Rights for the Population with Functional Diversity and Older Adults.” This legislation consolidates rights for these populations, including a 50% discount on shows and public transportation, and free transportation for those 70 and older.
Currently, individuals over 60 or with a functional diversity can choose whether or not to display these indicators on their digital identification through the CESCO digital platform. The functional diversity indicator requires authorization from the Department of Health. Individuals under 18 do not have the option to hide their age on their digital ID.
The DTOP is currently in the approval process to begin printing the new physical cards. Existing license holders will receive the updated design upon renewal, and current cardholders can update their identification to include the new features.
Frequently Asked Questions
What age groups will be specifically identified on the new cards?
The new cards will indicate if the holder is under 21 years of age, over 60 years of age, or over 75 years of age.
Can individuals choose whether or not to display their age or disability status on their digital ID?
Individuals over 60 and those with a functional diversity, with Department of Health authorization, can choose to display or hide these indicators on their digital identification through the CESCO digital platform. Individuals under 18 do not have this option.
What benefits are included in the new law?
The law establishes benefits such as a 50% discount on shows and public transportation, as well as free transportation for people 70 years or older.
As the DTOP moves forward with implementing these changes, it remains to be seen how readily the public will adopt the new digital features and how effectively the updated identification will facilitate access to the benefits outlined in the new law.
