The correct term is "driver's license" with an apostrophe
The official name used by every U.S. state and the federal government is driver's license — with an apostrophe between "driver" and "s". This is the term you'll see on government websites, on the document itself, in state motor vehicle codes, and on insurance forms. The apostrophe shows that the license belongs to the driver.
You may see "driver license" without an apostrophe on some websites, in casual writing, or in certain contexts, but this is not the official spelling. The apostrophe matters because it's the grammatically correct possessive form. When you're filling out official paperwork, explore for a license, or talking to a government agency, "driver's license" is always the right choice.
The confusion often happens because many people write quickly and skip the apostrophe, or because some organizations use shortened versions in headers or URLs where apostrophes can cause technical problems. But the standard, correct term — the one that appears on your actual document — includes the apostrophe.
Key Takeaways
- The official spelling is "driver's license" with an apostrophe, used by all 50 states and the federal government.
- The apostrophe shows possession — the license belongs to the driver — making it grammatically correct.
- You'll see "driver license" without an apostrophe on some websites, but this is informal and not the official term.
- When filling out government forms, insurance paperwork, or official documents, always use "driver's license" with the apostrophe.
Why the apostrophe matters in official documents
State motor vehicle departments use "driver's license" in their official codes, regulations, and on the physical card you receive. If you look at your actual license, the document itself may say "Driver's License" at the top. This consistency across all states means that when you're dealing with government agencies, law enforcement, or insurance companies, the apostrophe is the standard they recognize and expect.
Insurance companies also use "driver's license" when they ask for your information. On your insurance process, your policy documents, and your ID card, the term includes the apostrophe. Using the correct spelling helps you communicate clearly with insurers and ensures your information is recorded accurately in their systems.
Where you'll see "driver license" without the apostrophe
Some websites, databases, and informal writing drop the apostrophe for practical reasons. Older computer systems sometimes had trouble storing or searching for apostrophes, so some government databases and third-party websites simplified the spelling to "driver license". You may also see it written this way in casual conversation, text messages, or informal online forums.
However, this doesn't make it correct — it's just a shortcut. When you're in a formal setting or dealing with official paperwork, the apostrophe belongs there. Think of it the same way you'd write "John's car" instead of "Johns car" — the apostrophe shows who owns it.
How this affects your driver's license applications and renewals
When you explore for a new driver's license or renew an existing one, the state's process forms and websites will use "driver's license" with the apostrophe. You don't need to worry about spelling it differently — the state handles the official terminology. Your job is to provide the information they ask for and follow their instructions.
If you're searching for information online about driver's licenses, you may find results for both "driver's license" and "driver license" because search engines return pages with either spelling. But when you're on an official state DMV website or a government resource, the apostrophe will be there.
What to use when you're talking to insurance companies
Insurance agents and customer service representatives understand both terms, so you won't confuse anyone by saying "driver license" in conversation. However, on written forms — your insurance process, your policy documents, or any official correspondence — the correct spelling is "driver's license" with the apostrophe.
If you're copying information from your license onto an insurance form, the form itself will likely have the correct spelling already printed on it. You're just filling in your number and other details. The insurance company's system is set up to recognize "driver's license" as the standard term.
Regional and international variations
In Canada and some other English-speaking countries, you may see "driver's licence" with a "c" instead of an "s" — this is the British spelling. In the United States, the standard is always "driver's license" with an "s" and an apostrophe. If you're dealing with U.S. government agencies or U.S. insurance companies, use the American spelling with the apostrophe.
If you're moving between countries or dealing with international documents, pay attention to which country's spelling standard applies. For anything related to U.S. driver's licenses, insurance, or motor vehicle regulations, "driver's license" with an apostrophe and an "s" is correct.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does it matter if I write "driver license" without the apostrophe on an official form?
Most official forms have the correct spelling printed on them already, so you're just filling in numbers and details. If you're writing it yourself on a form that doesn't have it pre-printed, use the apostrophe to match the official standard. Government agencies and insurance companies recognize both, but "driver's license" is the correct term.
Will my insurance claim be denied if I write "driver license" instead of "driver's license"?
No. Insurance companies understand both spellings and won't deny a claim over this difference. What matters is that they have your correct license number and other identifying information. The spelling variation won't affect your coverage or claims.
Is "driver's license" spelled the same way in every U.S. state?
Yes. All 50 states and the federal government use "driver's license" with an apostrophe as the official term. You won't find a state that uses a different spelling on their official documents or regulations.
What if I see "driver license" on a government website?
Some older websites or databases may drop the apostrophe for technical reasons, but the official spelling is still "driver's license". If you're unsure which version is correct, check your actual license card — the document itself will show the official spelling.