The department shall prepare and issue drivers’ licenses and identicards using processes that prohibit as nearly as possible the alteration or reproduction of such cards, or the superimposing of other photographs on such cards, without ready detection.

Intent—1999 c 6: See note following RCW 46.04.168.

Purpose—1977 ex.s. c 27: “The legislature finds that the falsification of cards and licenses is a serious social problem creating economic hardship and problems which impede the efficient conduct of commerce and government. The legislature is particularly concerned that the increasing use of false drivers’ licenses and identicards to purchase liquor, to cash bad checks, and to obtain food stamps and other benefits is causing the loss of liquor licenses, the loss of jobs, the loss of income, and the loss of human life in addition to significant monetary losses in business and government. It is the purpose of RCW 46.20.114 to require an effective means of rendering drivers’ licenses and identicards as immune as possible from alteration and counterfeiting in order to promote the public health and safety of the people of this state.” [ 1977 ex.s. c 27 § 1.]