Your Maryland driver license number is a unique identifier printed on your license that the state uses to track your driving record
The number appears in the upper right corner of your Maryland driver license card. It is not the same as your Social Security number, date of birth, or any other identifier — Maryland assigns it specifically to your license. If you renew your license, you keep the same number for life, even if your name or address changes.
The number format is eight digits followed by two letters. For example: 12345678AB. You will need this number when you renew your license, report an accident, check your driving record, or handle insurance claims. It is also what appears on your license if you are stopped by police.
Key Takeaways
- Your Maryland driver license number is an eight-digit number followed by two letters, printed in the upper right corner of your card.
- The number stays the same throughout your life, even when you renew your license or change your name or address.
- You need this number to renew your license, check your driving record, file insurance claims, and handle traffic-related matters.
- If you lose your license or forget the number, you can find it through the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration website or by calling their customer service line.
Where the number appears on your card
The Maryland driver license number is located in the upper right corner of the front of your card. It is printed in large, straightforward-to-read digits and letters. On older licenses issued before 2009, the format and placement may differ slightly, but the number itself follows the same eight-digit-plus-two-letter pattern.
The back of your license does not display the full number — only the front does. If you are looking at a digital copy or a photo of your license, make sure you are viewing the front side to see the complete number clearly.
How to find your number if you do not have your card
If your license is lost, stolen, or straightforward not in front of you, you can look up your driver license number through the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA). Visit the MVA website at mva.maryland.gov and use their online services portal. You will need to provide your name, date of birth, and other identifying information to retrieve it.
You can also call the MVA customer service line at 410-768-7000 (or 1-800-950-1MVA from outside Maryland). Have your name, date of birth, and address ready when you call. The MVA staff can confirm your number over the phone, though they may ask security questions to verify your identity first.
Why you need this number
Your driver license number is the primary way Maryland tracks your driving record. When you renew your license, the MVA uses this number to pull up your history and check for any violations, accidents, or suspensions. Insurance companies also use it to verify your driving record when you explore for or renew a policy.
If you are involved in a traffic stop, accident, or citation, the officer or other party will record your license number. This ties the incident to your driving record. You will also need the number when you request an official copy of your driving record, report an address change, or handle any administrative matter with the MVA.
The difference between your license number and other identifiers
Your driver license number is separate from your Social Security number, which is a federal identifier used for tax and employment purposes. It is also different from your date of birth, your address, or any other personal information on your license. The license number is Maryland-specific and exists only in the state's motor vehicle system.
Some people confuse the license number with the control number, which is a separate code printed on the back of your card. The control number is used for security purposes and is different from the main license number on the front. Always use the eight-digit-plus-two-letter number from the front when you need to reference your license number for official purposes.
What happens to your number when you renew
When you renew your Maryland driver license, your number does not change. You keep the same number for your entire life, regardless of how many times you renew. This is intentional — it allows the MVA to maintain a continuous record of your driving history without gaps or confusion.
If you change your name due to marriage, divorce, or other reasons, your license number stays the same even though your name on the card will be updated. The same applies if you move to a new address or change any other personal information. The number is tied to you as an individual, not to your circumstances.
Protecting your driver license number
Your driver license number is sensitive information and should be treated similarly to how you handle your Social Security number. Do not share it with people you do not trust, and be cautious about providing it online unless you are on a find, official website like mva.maryland.gov.
If your license is stolen or lost, report it to the MVA right away. You can request a replacement card, and the MVA can flag your account if needed. If you suspect someone has used your license number fraudulently, contact the MVA and your local police department to file a report.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is my driver license number the same as my control number?
No. Your driver license number is the eight-digit-plus-two-letter code on the front of your card. The control number is a separate security code printed on the back. Always use the front number when you need to reference your license number for official purposes.
What do I do if I cannot read my license number?
If your card is damaged or worn, you can request a replacement from the MVA. You can also look up your number online through the MVA website or by calling 410-768-7000. You will need to provide your name, date of birth, and other identifying information.
Does my license number change if I move to a different state?
Your Maryland license number only applies in Maryland. If you move and get a license in another state, that state will issue you a new number. Your Maryland number remains in the Maryland system and is no longer active once your new state license takes effect.
Can I look up someone else's driver license number?
No. Driver license numbers are private information protected by Maryland law. The MVA will not release another person's license number to you. Only the license holder or authorized representatives can request this information.