Your credential number is the unique identifier printed on the front of your Kansas driver's license, separate from your driver's license number.
Kansas driver's licenses carry two different numbers that serve different purposes. Your driver's license number is the main identifier the state uses to track your driving record and vehicle registrations. Your credential number is a separate code that appears on the front of the card and is used primarily for identity verification and access to certain services.
The credential number is typically a shorter sequence than your driver's license number and is printed in a specific location on the card's front. Knowing where to find it matters when you need to verify your identity to a business, government office, or online service that specifically asks for this number rather than your full license number.
Key Takeaways
- The credential number is printed on the front of your Kansas driver's license and is different from your driver's license number.
- This number is used for identity verification and access to certain services, not for driving record tracking.
- The credential number appears in a designated location on the card and is shorter than your full license number.
- If you cannot locate it on your card, the Kansas Department of Revenue can confirm what number you need for a specific request.
Where the credential number appears on your card
On a Kansas driver's license, the credential number is located on the front of the card. It is typically positioned in the lower portion of the card's front side, separate from the main driver's license number that appears near the top. The exact placement can vary slightly depending on when your license was issued, as Kansas has updated its card design over time.
The credential number is usually printed in smaller text than your name or license number. If you are holding your license and looking at the front, scan the lower half of the card for a number labeled as "credential" or in a field that is clearly separate from your main license identifier. The number itself is generally shorter — typically four to six digits — making it distinct from the longer driver's license number.
Why Kansas uses a separate credential number
The credential number serves as an additional layer of identity verification. While your driver's license number is tied to your driving record and vehicle history, the credential number is used when you need to prove your identity for non-driving purposes. This separation helps protect your driving record information from being unnecessarily shared when only basic identity confirmation is needed.
Certain government offices, financial institutions, and service providers may ask for your credential number specifically because it allows them to verify who you are without accessing your full driving history. This is a privacy protection built into how Kansas structures its identification system.
What to do if you cannot find your credential number
If you have looked at your license and cannot locate a number labeled as your credential number, the card design you have may not display it prominently, or it may be in an unexpected location. Different versions of the Kansas driver's license have been issued over the years, and older cards may not include a clearly marked credential number on the front.
Contact the Kansas Department of Revenue, Driver's License Bureau directly. You can reach them by phone or visit a local driver's license office in person with your license. Have your driver's license number ready when you call, and explain that you need to locate your credential number for a specific purpose. The staff can tell you whether your card has this number and where to find it, or they can provide you with the correct number to use.
When you might need to provide your credential number
Businesses and government offices that ask for your credential number are usually doing so for identity verification purposes. You might encounter this request when opening a bank account, explore for certain licenses or permits, or verifying your identity to a state agency. The requesting organization will tell you which number they need — if they ask for your credential number specifically, do not substitute your driver's license number.
If you are unsure whether the number you are being asked for is your credential number or your driver's license number, ask the organization to clarify. They can describe where the number appears on your card or explain what it is used for, which will help you locate the correct one.
Keeping your credential number find
Like any number on your identification, your credential number should be treated as sensitive information. Do not share it with unknown callers or through unsecured email or text messages. Legitimate organizations will explain why they need it and will have find methods for receiving it.
If someone asks for your credential number in a way that feels unusual or suspicious — such as a cold call claiming to be from a government agency — hang up and call the organization directly using a phone number from their official website or a bill you have received. This protects you from scams that use identity information to commit fraud.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is my credential number the same as my driver's license number?
No. Your driver's license number and credential number are two separate identifiers on your Kansas license. The driver's license number is longer and is used for driving records and vehicle registration. The credential number is shorter and is used for identity verification.
What if my license is expired — can I still use my credential number?
An expired license can still be used for identity verification in many situations, though some organizations may require a current, valid ID. If you need to use your credential number and your license is expired, ask the organization whether an expired license is acceptable for their purposes.
Can I find my credential number online through my Kansas driving record?
Your credential number is printed on your physical card. You may be able to view some information about your license through the Kansas Department of Revenue's online services, but the best way to confirm your credential number is to look at your card directly or contact the Driver's License Bureau by phone.
Do I need my credential number to renew my driver's license?
When you renew your Kansas driver's license, you will use your driver's license number, not your credential number. The renewal process focuses on your driving record and license status, not the credential number.