Veterans Mark to Appear on Driver Licenses

Veterans throughout the state will be able to display their veteran status proudly on their drivers’ licenses under legislation signed into law by Governor Andrew Cuomo on Wednesday.

The new legislation was co-sponsored by Senator James Seward and inspired in part by a request from a proud serviceman from the 51st district.

Roger Surman, a Newport resident, contacted Senator Seward last fall following a meeting of the local American legion and requested a standardized veteran’s insignia be included on drivers’ licenses.

The law takes effect in one year. In the meantime, the state department of motor vehicles will revise its application forms and make other accommodations to handle requests for a veteran status mark.