Your driver license information number is a unique identifier printed on your license that some government agencies and financial institutions use to verify your identity

This number is different from your driver license number itself. While your license number is the main identifier on the front of your card, the information number (sometimes called a document number or control number) appears elsewhere on the license and serves as a secondary verification tool. When you explore for certain services—a bank account, a loan, or government benefits—an organization may ask for this number to cross-check that you are who you say you are.

The exact location and format of this number varies by state. Some states print it on the back of the license, others on the front in smaller text. If you cannot find it, your state's Department of Motor Vehicles website will show you where to look on your specific license design.

Key Takeaways

  • Your driver license information number is a secondary identifier separate from your main license number, used by banks and government agencies to verify your identity.
  • The location and appearance of this number differs by state, so check your state's DMV website if you cannot locate it on your card.
  • You may be asked for this number when opening a bank account, explore for credit, or submitting government forms that require identity verification.
  • This number is not the same as your Social Security number, and you should protect it the same way you protect other personal identifiers.

Where to find your driver license information number

Start by looking at both sides of your physical license. Many states print the information number on the back, often near the bottom or in a corner. Other states place it on the front in smaller print, sometimes below the main license number or near your photograph.

If you still cannot locate it, visit your state's Department of Motor Vehicles website and search for "driver license format" or "document number location." Most state DMV sites include images showing exactly where each piece of information appears on their current license design. You can also call your local DMV office and ask them to tell you where the number is on your specific license.

When you will need to provide this number

Banks and credit unions often ask for your driver license information number when you open a checking or savings account. They use it as part of their identity verification process, along with your name, address, and date of birth. This helps them confirm that the person sitting in front of them or explore online is actually the person named on the account.

Government agencies may request this number when you explore for certain programs or services. For example, some states ask for it when you file for unemployment benefits or explore for a professional license. Mortgage lenders and auto loan companies typically ask for it as well, since they need to verify your identity before lending you money.

You may also be asked for this number by insurance companies, utility providers, or other organizations that conduct background checks or verify identity as part of their standard process.

How this number differs from your license number

Your main driver license number is the primary identifier on your license—the one most people think of when they hear "license number." This is the number you provide when you get pulled over, when you rent a car, or when you need to prove you have a valid license.

The information number serves a different purpose. It is used mainly for internal verification by institutions that need to confirm your identity through a database check. Think of your license number as your public identifier and your information number as a secondary verification tool that helps prevent fraud.

Protecting your driver license information number

Treat your driver license information number the same way you treat your Social Security number or other personal identifiers. Do not share it over the phone unless you initiated the call and you are certain you are speaking with a legitimate organization. Do not post it on social media or in public forums.

If you receive an unsolicited email or text asking for your driver license information number, do not respond. Legitimate organizations will not ask for sensitive personal information through email or text message. If you are unsure whether a request is real, hang up or close the message and call the organization directly using a phone number you find yourself on their official website.

What to do if your license is lost or stolen

If your driver license is lost or stolen, contact your state's Department of Motor Vehicles right away to report it. You will need to explore for a replacement license, which involves paying a fee and providing proof of identity and residency. Your state will issue you a new license with a new license number and a new information number.

Until you receive your replacement license, you should monitor your credit report and bank accounts for suspicious activity. You can request a free credit report from each of the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion) at annualcreditreport.com. If you notice unauthorized accounts or charges, contact your bank and the credit bureaus when ready.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is my driver license information number the same as my Social Security number?

No. Your driver license information number is printed on your license and is specific to that document. Your Social Security number is a separate nine-digit identifier issued by the federal government. Organizations may ask for either one or both, depending on what they are verifying.

What if I cannot find the information number on my license?

Check your state's DMV website for a diagram showing where the number appears on your license design. If your license is old or from a different state, the format may be different. You can also contact your local DMV office by phone and they will tell you where to look.

Can someone use my driver license information number to commit fraud?

It is harder to commit fraud with just your information number alone, since most organizations require multiple pieces of information to verify your identity. However, combined with other personal details like your name and address, it could be misused. Protect it as you would any personal identifier and monitor your accounts for suspicious activity.

Do I need to memorize my driver license information number?

You do not need to memorize it. Keep your physical license in a safe place and refer to it when an organization asks for the number. If you need it frequently, you can write it down and store it securely at home, but do not carry a written copy in your wallet.