Where to find your audit number on your Texas driver's license
Your Texas driver's license audit number is a six-digit code printed on the back of your card, in the lower right corner. It appears below the expiration date and is sometimes called the "DL#" suffix or audit code. If you have your physical license in front of you, look at the back — the audit number will be there.
The audit number is different from your driver's license number itself, which appears on the front of the card. The license number is longer and identifies you as a driver. The audit number is shorter and is used by the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) for internal record-keeping and verification purposes.
Key Takeaways
- Your audit number is a six-digit code on the back of your Texas driver's license, located in the lower right corner below the expiration date.
- The audit number is separate from your main driver's license number and is used by the Texas DPS for verification and record purposes.
- If you cannot locate the number on a physical card, you can contact the Texas DPS directly or visit a local DPS office to request it.
- You will need your audit number when dealing with certain DPS transactions, vehicle registration matters, or when the agency asks for it specifically.
What the audit number is used for
The Texas DPS uses the audit number as an internal reference code. When you interact with DPS — whether renewing your license, updating your address, or handling a traffic matter — staff may ask for this number to pull up your record quickly and confirm your identity. It serves as a secondary verification tool alongside your license number.
You may also encounter requests for your audit number when dealing with vehicle registration, title transfers, or certain administrative processes through the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles. Having it on hand can speed up these transactions because it helps the agency locate your file without delay.
How to get your audit number if you do not have your card
If your license is lost, stolen, or expired and you do not have access to the card itself, you can contact the Texas DPS directly. Call the DPS Customer Service line at 1-888-589-6556 (toll-free) during business hours. Have your name, date of birth, and driver's license number ready when you call. A representative can look up your audit number in the system and provide it to you over the phone.
You can also visit a local DPS office in person. Bring a valid form of identification and your driver's license number if you have it. Staff at the office can print out your information or provide your audit number on the spot. To find the DPS office nearest you, go to the Texas DPS website and use their office locator tool.
Requesting your audit number online
The Texas DPS does not currently offer a way to look up your audit number through their online portal or website. You must either check your physical card, call the DPS Customer Service line, or visit an office in person. If you are renewing your license online through the DPS website, the system will not display your audit number — you will need to have it from your current card or obtain it through one of the methods above.
If you are in the middle of a DPS transaction and need your audit number, calling ahead is often faster than making a trip to an office. Have your license number and personal information ready so the representative can pull your record when ready.
What to do if your audit number does not match your records
If you believe there is an error with your audit number or if the number on your card does not match what DPS has in their system, contact the DPS directly to report the discrepancy. Call 1-888-589-6556 or visit a local office with your physical license. Bring any documents that show your identity and your license number.
Errors are rare, but they can happen during card printing or if your record was updated incorrectly. DPS staff can investigate and correct the issue in their system. If a replacement card is needed, they will let you know the process and any fees involved.
Keeping your audit number safe
Your audit number is not as sensitive as your Social Security number or full license number, but it is still part of your identification. Do not share it with people you do not trust, and do not post it on social media or in public forums. If someone asks for your audit number and you are unsure why they need it, ask them to explain and verify they are actually with the Texas DPS or a legitimate government agency.
Keep a photo or written record of your audit number in a safe place at home, separate from your wallet. This way, if your license is lost or stolen, you can still provide the number to DPS when you report it or request a replacement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is my audit number the same as my driver's license number?
No. Your driver's license number is longer and appears on the front of your card. Your audit number is a six-digit code on the back. They are two separate identifiers used by the Texas DPS for different purposes.
Do I need my audit number to renew my license?
Not always. If you renew online or by mail, you typically only need your license number and personal information. If you renew in person at a DPS office, staff may ask for your audit number to verify your record, but it is not required if you have your physical card with you.
What if I lost my license and do not remember the audit number?
Call the Texas DPS at 1-888-589-6556 with your name, date of birth, and license number. They can look up your audit number and provide it to you. You can also visit a local DPS office in person with a valid ID.
Can I find my audit number on my vehicle registration or title?
No. Your driver's license audit number appears only on your driver's license itself. Vehicle registration and title documents use different reference numbers and will not show your license audit number.