New Driver’s License and ID Card Design Unveiled

​Minnesotans will see newly designed driver’s licenses and ID cards in the coming weeks as the state transitions from the current cards that were first issued in 2004.

The Minnesota Department of Public Safety Driver and Vehicle Services division will begin issuing the newly designed cards for applications or renewals processed on or after August 6.

The new cards feature the State of Minnesota branding and colors with a custom Minnesota-themed background. Other changes include a vertical orientation for Under 21 cards and a variety of security features.

The new design will be applied to all driver’s licenses and ID cards issued by the State of Minnesota. Learn more about the new design.

Inspectors Work Across Minnesota to Ensure Pipeline Safety

​Our Office of Pipeline Safety has inspectors who work across the state to ensure the thousands of miles of natural gas pipelines under our feet are safe.

Inspections of a pipeline operator include field observations as well as an evaluation of:

• Policies
• Procedures
• Training and qualification records

Learn more about our Office of Pipeline Safety | Take a look back at an explosion from a gas leak 25 years ago in St. Paul.

Dispatchers: The 'Thin Gold Line' Between Those in Need and First Responders

​​It’s the middle of the night. Someone you love is injured, or your house is on fire, or you’ve been in a car crash…whatever the reason, you have to call 911. And there it is: the calm voice on the other end of the line, talking you through the scary stuff, making sure the right kind of help is on the way.

We don’t think about them much, but 911 dispatchers are known as the “thin gold line,” connecting the public to police, fire, and emergency medical personnel.

Learn what it takes to be a dispatcher in our recent blog.