License changes

Beginning July 1, anyone in Missouri applying for a new driver's license, nondriver license or permit or anyone renewing a license must provide proof of "lawful presence," the legal claim to be in the U.S.

One of the following must be presented: a U.S. birth certificate issued by the state or local government, a valid U.S. passport, a certificate of citizenship, a certificate of naturalization, or a certificate of birth abroad.

Certified copies of Missouri records of birth may be obtained at county health departments or by writing to:

Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services

Bureau of Vital Records

P.O. Box 570

Jefferson City, MO 65102

If born in Missouri, the applicant must bring a picture ID and the $15 fee to the county health department. If born at home, the application may have to be forwarded to the state.

Driver's license applicants must be able to show how any name change has occurred, if it has. A resident of Missouri whose name has never changed would have to show only a U.S. birth certificate or valid U.S. passport to prove lawful presence. Someone whose last name has changed through marriage also will be required to present a copy of her marriage license if showing proof with a birth certificate. Someone born in the U.S. who has a valid passport in her married name need only present her passport as proof of lawful presence.

A woman who is recently divorced and wants her new driver's license to reflect her maiden name will need to show her birth certificate, an official copy of her marriage license and official copy of her divorce decree.

These new requirements represent significant inconveniences, especially to women, but they are being instituted to help stop identify theft, a crime that costs Americans more than $547 million annually. The changes also are intended to help make our citizenry more secure.