Why would my Driver's license bend severely, when left inside my car?

Question

I have been leaving my license on top of the glove box in my car, right on the console. I found it this a.m., and it was severely bent- into almost a C shape! Could this be from the extremely oppressive heat? I live in GA, and I know that the heat has been extreme not only here, but in the whole US, as well as other places.

Could extreme heat explain this bending?

How may I bend it back into being straight, without breaking or destroying it? Do I need to put in the freezer? LOL.

Answer 1

No, the freezer wont work. Warm it up gently with some hot water and put it in a book when it gets pliable. Alternatively, put it in a damp cloth and iron it carefully on a low heat.

It's bent either because one side has got warmer then the other and the differences in expansion have caused it to bend (most likely) or because there is some kind of heat memory effect going on with the plastic. The second effect can be shown by putting a yogurt pot in a pressure cooked and if it's the right kind it will revert to a flattened disk shape like a coaster (along with distorted printing).

Answer 2

That's it! It can be 40 or more degrees hotter inside a car than outside. Ask the Georgia DMV for a replacement license,should cost about 7 dollars,then keep your license in your wallet.

Answer 3

Yes, it is the heat. Freezer will break it, heat slowly and bend back. And do not leave lying in the sun in future.

Answer 4

Extreme heat tends to warp plastic. The answer is to reehat it, as bending it when it's cold will cuase it to fracture.

Answer 5

yes the heat did it!! go to the (gulp) DMV & pay for a new one. i live in GA also sorry they no longer give the organ donor discount. if by some strange coincidence you live around ''here'' go to the one on furrys ferry rd, its more convienient & is quick. fyi -leave your lic. in your wallet!