Security Feature Missing From Some OK Driver's Licenses, OHP Says

The Oklahoma Highway Patrol said now is the time to take a second look at your driver’s license or ID, because you could be missing the hologram security emblem.

OHP first noticed the problem at the end of November last year. Since then, troopers have been working to get the problem fixed.

So far they know of 150 reported cases and suspect there could be more.

Every year, OHP says an estimated 1.1 million driver’s licenses and identification cards are printed in Oklahoma.

Shawn Wittman lost his old driver's license and had to get a new one.

"It was a long wait, which I wasn't planning on doing," he said.

With more than 260 agencies that issue the licenses, mistakes can happen, and at least 150 printed are either missing a hologram security emblem, or it's printed on the back.

Wittman said, "I think they should watch it closely and make sure their operations are running smoothly."

OHP captain, Paul Timmons, blames the problem on operator error; it's likely the plastic used to laminate the IDs was missing the emblem.

1/29/2016 Related Story: DPS: Error Found On Some OK Driver’s Licenses, ID Cards

Officials found out about it when TSA agents started forwarding them the IDs.

"When we first discovered it, we didn't know how many there were or anything like that; but when we were made aware of it, we did take steps to try to get it corrected," Timmons said.

He said people who are missing the holograms can take the cards to the issuing agency where they can get it replaced for free.

Timmons said, "The license is still valid, it's going to cause you problems if you board and aircraft or enter a federal facility because of the REAL ID Act."

Wittman makes it a point to make sure everything checks out.

"I just want to make sure mine is the right information, that way I can get whatever I need with my license. Because I don't want any inconveniences on anyone or myself," he said.

OHP said there's no timeline on when you should get it fixed.

And, although TSA agents in Oklahoma will accept the licenses with the missing emblems, other agents in different states may not - but it's up to the driver to take that risk.