How to Find Someone's Driver's License Number

Where a driver's license number appears and who can access it

A driver's license number is a unique identifier issued by your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). It appears on the physical license card itself, and it's also stored in the state's motor vehicle records database. Whether you can find someone else's number depends entirely on your relationship to that person and your reason for needing it.

If someone has given you permission to look up their number — for example, they've asked you to handle paperwork on their behalf — the simplest approach is to ask them directly. They can tell you the number, show you their license, or authorize you to request it from the DMV. If you don't have permission and don't have a legal reason to access the information, you won't be able to obtain it through official channels.

Key Takeaways

The person themselves is the fastest source: you can ask them directly or request they show you their license.
If you have power of attorney or guardianship over someone, you may request their driver's license information from the DMV with proof of your legal authority.
Employers, insurance companies, and government agencies can request driver's license numbers as part of legitimate business or legal processes, but individual citizens cannot.
Most states do not release driver's license numbers to the public, even with a name and date of birth, because the number is considered sensitive personal information.
If you need someone's license number for a legal document or transaction, the person being identified should provide it themselves or authorize the release in writing.

Asking the person directly

The most straightforward way to get someone's driver's license number is to ask them. If you're filling out a form, handling an insurance claim, or managing paperwork that requires their number, contact them and explain what you need and why. Most people will provide it without hesitation if the request is legitimate.

If the person is unable to communicate — for example, they are incapacitated or a minor in your care — you may need to retrieve their physical license from their wallet or a safe place where they keep documents. If you have legal authority over them, such as power of attorney or guardianship, you can also contact the DMV directly with proof of that authority.

Requesting information from your state's DMV

Each state's Department of Motor Vehicles maintains driver's license records, but access is restricted. You cannot call or visit your local DMV and ask for someone else's driver's license number based on their name alone. The DMV protects this information as personal data.

However, if you have a legal relationship to the person — such as being their parent, legal guardian, or holding power of attorney — you can request their information in person at the DMV office. You will need to bring proof of your legal authority, such as a guardianship order, power of attorney document, or birth certificate showing you are their parent. The specific documents required vary by state, so contact your state DMV before visiting to confirm what you need to bring.

When employers and organizations can request the number

Employers, insurance companies, government agencies, and financial institutions can request driver's license numbers as part of their normal business. They do this because the number serves as a verified form of identification tied to a background check system. However, these organizations request the number directly from the individual, not from the DMV on behalf of someone else.

If you work for one of these organizations and need a driver's license number from a customer or employee, you ask that person to provide it. You do not contact the DMV to retrieve it. The person fills out a form, provides it verbally, or shows you their physical license, and you record the number they give you.

Why you cannot find someone's number without permission

Driver's license numbers are considered sensitive personal information in most states. Unlike a name or phone number, a license number is tied directly to your driving history, address, and other identifying details in the state's database. Releasing this number to anyone who asks would create a privacy and security risk.

Additionally, using someone's driver's license number without permission — or attempting to obtain it through deception — can violate state privacy laws and identity theft statutes. If you need the number for a legitimate reason, the appropriate path is always to ask the person directly or to work through the official channels available to you based on your legal relationship to them.

What to do if someone won't provide their number

If you need someone's driver's license number for a legitimate transaction and they refuse to provide it, you have limited options. You cannot force them to give it to you, and you cannot obtain it from the DMV without their consent or a court order.

If the situation involves a legal matter — such as a custody dispute, a debt collection case, or a court-ordered process — you may be able to request the information through your attorney or through the court system itself. A judge can order the disclosure of such information if there is a valid legal reason. For routine business matters, if someone refuses to provide their license number, you may need to find an alternative form of identification or decline to proceed with the transaction.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I look up someone's driver's license number if I know their name and date of birth?

No. Most states do not release driver's license numbers to the public through any search tool, even if you have identifying information like a name or date of birth. The DMV keeps this information private. Your only option is to ask the person directly.

What if I'm trying to verify someone's identity for a job or rental process?

Ask the applicant to provide their driver's license number themselves as part of the process process. They can write it on a form, tell you verbally, or show you the physical card. You do not contact the DMV to verify it on their behalf — the applicant provides the number, and you may contact the DMV separately if you need to confirm the license is valid and not suspended.

Can I get someone's driver's license number if I have power of attorney?

Yes. If you hold a valid power of attorney document, you can visit your state's DMV office in person with the document and request the person's driver's license information. Requirements vary by state, so call ahead to confirm what documents to bring and whether you need an appointment.

Is it illegal to use someone's driver's license number without permission?

Yes. Using someone's driver's license number without their consent can violate state identity theft and privacy laws. If you need the number for a legitimate reason, you must obtain it through proper channels — either by asking the person directly or by working through legal authority if you have it.

What if someone's driver's license is lost and I need to report it?

If you are the license holder, contact your state's DMV to report it lost or stolen. If you are reporting on behalf of someone else, that person should contact the DMV themselves. The DMV will not accept a report from a third party unless you have legal authority, such as guardianship.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.