State officials recently unveiled a dramatically redesigned California driver's license, with hidden photos and raised lettering, aimed at foiling counterfeiters.

But the new design, it turns out, is just tripping up the DMV and its customers at the moment.

The agency reports it is six weeks behind in delivering new licenses to motorists up for renewal.

The problem is in production. The manufacturer has been having trouble getting the details of the card right. Officials with L-1 Identity Solutions say they believe they will have the process smoothed out soon, but can't say exactly when.

Meanwhile, DMV officials say they refuse to let any cards out the door unless they are perfect.

"We are checking every single card," DMV spokesman Mike Marando said. "If there is so much as a smudge, we send it back."

What does it mean for drivers whose license expiration dates have passed without a new license to show for it?

DMV officials say if you pay your renewal fees by mail or Internet, a record of your payment will be entered into state law enforcement computers within one week. If you pay at a field office, it's noted in the computers within a day.

Police officers can check those computers to verify, and will not issue tickets, Marando said.

Drivers who are are especially concerned can call the agency's customer service line and request that a receipt be mailed to you.

Trouble is, DMV officials can't say how long before the receipt would arrive.