Your Virginia driver's license number is printed on the front of your card, in the upper right corner

The number appears as an eight-digit code. It is unique to you and stays the same throughout your life in Virginia, even if you renew your license multiple times. You do not need to memorize it — you can look at your physical card whenever you need it, or contact the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) if you have lost your card and need to know the number.

Your driver's license number is different from your Social Security number, your vehicle registration number, or your license plate number. Each serves a separate purpose in Virginia's records system. The DMV uses your license number to track your driving history, violations, and renewal dates.

Key Takeaways

  • Your Virginia driver's license number is an eight-digit code printed in the upper right corner of your physical card.
  • The number remains the same for your entire life in Virginia, even when you renew your license.
  • You can contact the Virginia DMV by phone at 804-367-0538 or visit dmvnow.com if you need your number and cannot locate your card.
  • Your license number is required for vehicle registration, insurance, and when you interact with law enforcement.
  • If your card is lost or stolen, you can request a replacement through the DMV without your number — they can look it up using your name and date of birth.

Why you need your driver's license number

Your Virginia driver's license number appears on many official documents and transactions. Insurance companies ask for it when you get a quote or file a claim. Law enforcement records it during traffic stops. Vehicle registration and renewal forms require it. Banks and government agencies may request it as a form of identification.

When you rent a car, the rental company will record your license number. If you are pulled over while driving, the officer will run your number through the system to check your driving record and any outstanding violations or warrants. Having your number readily available makes these interactions faster.

How to find your number if your card is lost or damaged

If your physical card is not available, you have two main options. You can call the Virginia DMV at 804-367-0538 during business hours (Monday through Friday, 8:15 a.m. to 4:45 p.m. Eastern time). A staff member can look up your number using your name and date of birth.

You can also visit the DMV website at dmvnow.com and use their online services. The site allows you to check your driving record and view some account information if you create a login. If you cannot find your number through these methods, you can visit a DMV office in person with a photo ID — any valid ID will work, not just your driver's license.

What to do if your card is lost or stolen

Report a lost or stolen driver's license to the Virginia DMV as soon as possible. You can do this online through dmvnow.com, by phone at 804-367-0538, or in person at any DMV office. Reporting it prevents someone else from using your number fraudulently.

You will need to request a replacement card. Virginia charges a fee for a duplicate license, which varies depending on how long until your current license expires. The DMV will issue you a new card with the same eight-digit number you have always had — your number does not change when you replace the card. Replacement cards typically arrive by mail within two to three weeks.

Understanding your license number format

Virginia driver's license numbers are always eight digits long. The format is straightforward and does not encode personal information like your birth date or initials — it is straightforward a sequential identifier assigned by the DMV. This is different from some other states, where the license number contains coded information about when and where you were born.

Because your Virginia number stays the same for life, you will use the same eight digits whether you renew at age 25, 40, or 65. The only time your number changes is if you move to a different state and obtain a license there — Virginia's number is only valid in Virginia.

Keeping your license number safe

Your driver's license number is a form of identification, so treat it with the same care you would your Social Security number. Do not share it with unknown callers or websites you do not trust. Legitimate businesses you already work with — your insurance company, your bank, your employer — will already have your number on file or will ask for it directly.

If you suspect someone has used your license number fraudulently, contact the Virginia DMV when ready. You can also place a fraud alert with the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion) to monitor for unauthorized accounts opened in your name.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does my Virginia driver's license number change when I renew?

No. Your eight-digit number stays the same throughout your life in Virginia. When you renew your license, you receive a new card with the same number printed on it. The only thing that changes is the expiration date.

Can I look up someone else's driver's license number?

No. The Virginia DMV does not release driver's license numbers to the public. Only the person who holds the license, law enforcement, and authorized government agencies can access this information. This protects your privacy.

What if I forget my license number and need it right now?

Call the Virginia DMV at 804-367-0538. They can provide your number over the phone if you can verify your identity with your name and date of birth. If it is after hours, you can visit dmvnow.com to see if you can access your driving record online with a login.

Is my driver's license number the same as my license plate number?

No. Your driver's license number is an eight-digit personal identifier. Your license plate number is a separate code assigned to your vehicle. They serve different purposes and are not connected to each other.