Your driver's license number appears in multiple places on your physical card and online

Your New Hampshire driver's license number is printed on the front of your card, below your photograph on the left side. It is an eight-character code that begins with two letters followed by six numbers — for example, AB123456. If you have lost your card or cannot read the number clearly, you can also find it through the New Hampshire Department of Safety website or by contacting the Division of Motor Vehicles directly.

The number itself is unique to you and remains the same throughout your life in New Hampshire, even if you renew your license multiple times. It serves as your identifier for driving records, vehicle registration, and other DMV transactions.

Key Takeaways

  • Your driver's license number is printed on the front of your physical card, below your photo on the left side, in the format of two letters followed by six numbers.
  • You can retrieve your license number online through the New Hampshire Department of Safety portal if you do not have your card available.
  • Your license number stays the same for your entire driving life in New Hampshire, even after renewals or address changes.
  • If you cannot locate your number through these methods, you can call the Division of Motor Vehicles at their main office or visit a local DMV branch in person.

Finding the number on your physical card

On the front of your New Hampshire driver's license, look directly below your photograph on the left side of the card. The number will be printed in a clear, readable font. It always follows the same format: two capital letters followed by six digits. This is your primary identifier for all DMV purposes.

If your card is damaged, faded, or difficult to read, you do not need to replace it just to see the number. You can retrieve it through other methods without ordering a new card.

Checking your number through the New Hampshire DMV online system

The New Hampshire Department of Safety operates an online portal where you can view your driver's license information, including your license number. To access this, visit the official New Hampshire Department of Safety website and look for the driver services section. You will typically need to provide your name, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number to verify your identity.

This online method is fastest if you need your number when ready and do not have your physical card nearby. The system is available during standard business hours and does not require an appointment.

Contacting the Division of Motor Vehicles by phone

You can call the New Hampshire Division of Motor Vehicles directly to request your license number. The main office is located in Concord, and staff can provide your number over the phone after confirming your identity. Be prepared to answer security questions about your personal information, such as your date of birth, address, and the last four digits of your Social Security number.

Wait times vary depending on the time of day and day of the week. Calling early in the morning or mid-week typically results in shorter hold times than calling on Fridays or during lunch hours.

Visiting a local DMV office in person

If you prefer to speak with someone face-to-face, you can visit any New Hampshire DMV branch office. Staff can look up your license number in their system and provide it to you when ready. Bring a form of identification, such as a passport or birth certificate, to verify who you are.

Most DMV offices operate on a walk-in basis, though some locations now offer appointment scheduling. Check the New Hampshire Department of Safety website to find the office nearest you and confirm their current hours before you visit.

What to do if you have lost your license card

If your physical card is lost or stolen, you can still retrieve your license number without ordering a replacement. Use the online portal or call the DMV — both methods will give you your number when ready. You only need to order a replacement card if you need a physical card for identification purposes, such as for travel or age verification.

If your card was stolen, consider reporting it to the DMV so they can flag it in their system. This does not affect your license number, but it creates a record that the card is no longer valid.

Understanding your license number format

New Hampshire driver's license numbers follow a consistent eight-character format: two letters followed by six numbers. The letters are not random — they are derived from your name, typically the first two letters of your last name. The numbers that follow are assigned sequentially based on when you received your license.

This format has remained standard for many years, so whether your license is current or expired, your number will follow this same pattern. The number does not change if you renew your license, move to a different address, or update your name through marriage or legal change.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does my license number change when I renew my license?

No. Your New Hampshire driver's license number remains the same for your entire life as a resident driver. When you renew your license, the DMV issues a new card with the same number printed on it. Only your photograph, address, and expiration date change.

Can I find my license number on my vehicle registration?

Your vehicle registration does not display your driver's license number. It shows your vehicle identification number (VIN) and registration number instead. To find your license number, check your physical card, contact the DMV, or use the online portal.

What if I cannot remember my date of birth or Social Security number to verify my identity online?

Call the Division of Motor Vehicles directly. Staff can verify your identity using other information, such as your address history or vehicle registration details. You do not need to provide every piece of information — the DMV has flexibility in how they confirm who you are.

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

No. Your driver's license number is unique to you as a driver. Your license plate number is unique to your vehicle. They are completely separate identifiers and serve different purposes in the DMV system.