Governor Backs Tighter Security For Driver’s Licenses

HARTFORD (AP) — Governor M. Jodi Rell Friday approved a plan by the state Department of Motor Vehicles to tighten the application process for driver’s licenses in an effort to cut down on fraud.

The changes include issuing temporary licenses and identification cards while detailed background checks are completed for people getting new licenses.

“Verifying a license applicant’s identity is as important as determining their ability to safely operate a motor vehicle,” Gov Rell said. “These changes are consistent with a trend towards the driver’s license becoming the primary identity card nationwide.”

People applying for a driver’s license or identity card for the first time will receive a temporary license or card. It will be good for 60 days while the DMV completes a background check, including verifying the documents submitted as proof of identity and residence.

The background investigation will include Social Security number verification as well as a check of law enforcement and immigration databases.

The DMV changes follow the arrest of several department employees for their alleged roles in forgery, receiving a bribe and conspiracy in connection with running an operation to make driver’s licenses for illegal immigrants and other ineligible drivers.