Your driver license information number is a unique identifier printed on your license that the DMV uses to look up your record

Every state's driver license has an information number — sometimes called a document number, license number, or control number depending on where you live. This is not the same as your driver license number itself. The information number is a separate code printed on your license that links to your specific document in the DMV's system. When you renew, replace, or update your license, the DMV uses this number to pull up your history and confirm you are the person requesting the transaction.

You will need this number when you contact your state DMV by phone, mail, or online portal. Insurance companies also ask for it when you file a claim or update your policy. Law enforcement may reference it during a traffic stop. Having it memorized or written down saves time and prevents delays when you need to access your driving record or handle license-related business.

Key Takeaways

  • Your driver license information number is a separate code from your license number and appears on the front or back of your physical license.
  • The DMV uses this number to locate your record when you renew, replace, or update your license by phone, mail, or online.
  • Insurance companies and law enforcement may ask for this number to verify your identity and access your driving history.
  • Each state formats and names this number differently, so check your license or your state DMV website to find where it appears on yours.

Where to find your information number on your license

The location and format of your driver license information number varies by state. On most licenses, it appears as a separate line of text distinct from your main license number. Some states print it on the front of the card near your photo or name; others place it on the back. A few states include it in a barcode or magnetic stripe that can only be read by a scanner.

The easiest way to locate yours is to look at your physical license and compare it to your state's DMV website, which usually shows a sample license with all numbers labeled. If you cannot find it or your license is damaged, you can call your state DMV and provide your name, date of birth, and address — they will read it to you over the phone. Some states also display this number in your online DMV account if you have created one.

How states name and format this number differently

There is no national standard for what this number is called or how it looks. California calls it a "document number" and prints it as a series of letters and numbers. Texas labels it a "DL/ID number" and formats it differently than California. New York uses "license class" codes alongside a separate control number. Florida, Georgia, and other states have their own naming conventions and layouts.

This variation means you cannot assume the format or location based on another state's license. If you move to a new state and get a license there, the information number on your new license will look and be positioned differently than your old one. When you need to provide this number to the DMV or another agency, always double-check your current license to make sure you are reading the correct code.

Why the DMV needs this number to process your requests

Your driver license information number is the fastest way for the DMV to pull up your exact record without confusion. If you only provide your name and date of birth, the system might return multiple matches, especially if your name is common. The information number eliminates that problem — it points directly to your file. This matters when you renew by mail or phone, because the DMV cannot see your face to verify you in person.

The number also protects against identity fraud. Someone with your name and birth date cannot easily access your record without this specific code. When you call the DMV or use their online portal, providing the information number confirms you have your actual license in hand, which is a basic security check. If your license is lost or stolen, you will need this number to report it and request a replacement.

When insurance companies and other agencies ask for this number

Auto insurance companies request your driver license information number during the quote process and when you file a claim. They use it to verify your identity and pull your driving record from the state DMV. This record shows accidents, violations, and suspensions — all things that affect your insurance rate and coverage. Providing the correct number ensures the insurer gets your actual record and not someone else's.

Other agencies that may ask for this number include your employer (if you drive for work), your state's Department of Transportation (if you are disputing a ticket), and law enforcement (during a traffic stop). Some rental car companies also request it as part of their verification process. In all cases, the number serves the same purpose: confirming your identity and linking you to your official driving record.

What to do if you cannot find your information number

If your license is damaged, faded, or you straightforward cannot locate the number on your card, contact your state DMV directly. You can usually reach them by phone, and they will ask for your name, date of birth, and address to pull up your record. Once they confirm your identity, they will read your information number to you. Write it down and keep it in a safe place for future reference.

If you have an online account with your state DMV, log in and check your license details there — many states display this number in your digital profile. You can also visit a DMV office in person with your license and photo ID, and staff will help you locate and record the number. Some states allow you to order a replacement license if yours is too damaged to read, which will come with a new information number printed clearly.

How your information number changes when you renew or replace your license

When you renew your license before it expires, your information number usually stays the same. The DMV reissues your license with the same number but an updated expiration date. However, if you replace your license because it was lost, stolen, or damaged, you will receive a new information number. This is intentional — it helps the DMV track which physical card is current and which ones are no longer valid.

If you move to a new state and get a license there, your new state will assign you a completely different information number in their own format. Your old state's number will no longer be used. Keep your new state's information number handy, because that is the one your new state's DMV, insurance companies, and other agencies will need. If you move back to your original state later, you may be assigned yet another number, or the DMV may reactivate your old one — this varies by state policy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is my driver license information number the same as my license number?

No. Your license number is your main identifier and appears prominently on your card. Your information number is a separate code the DMV uses to locate your record in their system. Both are printed on your license, but they serve different purposes and look different.

Do I need to memorize my information number?

You do not need to memorize it, but it is helpful to write it down and keep it somewhere safe. When you call the DMV or file an insurance claim, having it ready speeds up the process. If you cannot find it, the DMV or insurance company can look it up using your name and date of birth, but it takes longer.

What happens if I give the wrong information number to my insurance company?

The insurance company will likely catch the error when they try to pull your driving record from the state DMV. They will contact you to get the correct number. Providing an incorrect number does not affect your coverage, but it delays processing your quote or claim.

Can someone use my information number to access my driving record?

Your information number alone is not enough for someone to access your full record — the DMV also requires your name, date of birth, and sometimes additional verification. However, you should still keep this number private, just as you would your Social Security number or other personal identifiers.

Will my information number change if I get a REAL ID license?

This depends on your state. Some states assign a new information number when you upgrade to REAL ID, while others keep your existing number. Check with your state DMV or look at your new REAL ID license to see if the number changed from your previous license.