Your credential number is the unique identifier the Kansas Department of Revenue uses to track your driver's license record
The credential number on your Kansas driver's license is a number assigned by the Kansas Department of Revenue that identifies your specific license. It is different from your driver's license number itself — think of it as an internal tracking code the state uses to manage your driving record, renewals, and any violations or suspensions tied to your account.
You will see this number printed on your physical license card. It appears alongside other identifying information like your name, address, and license class. The credential number stays the same throughout your driving life in Kansas, even if you renew your license multiple times or move to a new address.
Understanding what this number is and where to find it matters because you may need to reference it when requesting your driving record, contacting the Kansas Department of Revenue about your license status, or dealing with traffic violations or insurance claims.
Key Takeaways
- Your credential number is printed on your Kansas driver's license and serves as the state's internal identifier for your driving record.
- The credential number is different from your driver's license number and does not change when you renew your license.
- You will need your credential number if you request an official copy of your driving record or contact the Kansas Department of Revenue about your account.
- The credential number appears on the front or back of your physical license card, depending on when your license was issued.
Where the credential number appears on your license card
On newer Kansas driver's licenses, the credential number is typically printed on the back of the card. On older licenses issued before the state updated its format, it may appear on the front. The exact placement can vary depending on when your license was issued.
If you are unsure which side to check, start with the back. Look for a number labeled as "credential number" or sometimes listed near other reference numbers. The number itself is usually a series of digits, though the exact format may vary.
If you cannot locate it on your physical card, you can contact the Kansas Department of Revenue directly. They can confirm your credential number by looking up your record using your name and date of birth.
Why you need your credential number
The Kansas Department of Revenue uses your credential number to pull up your complete driving record in their system. When you request an official driving record — whether for a job process, insurance purposes, or to check for violations — you can provide this number to speed up the process.
If you are dealing with a traffic ticket, suspension, or other license-related issue, having your credential number on hand makes it easier for the department to locate your file quickly. Insurance companies may also ask for this number when you file a claim or switch providers, since it links directly to your state record.
You may also need it if you are renewing your license online or by mail, or if you are updating your address or other personal information with the state.
How credential number differs from your driver's license number
Your driver's license number is the main identification number on your license — the one you use to prove your identity and driving status. Your credential number is a separate administrative number that the state uses internally to organize and track your record.
The driver's license number may change if your license is suspended, revoked, and then reissued, or in some cases when you renew. The credential number, by contrast, remains constant. This is why the credential number is more reliable for looking up your permanent driving history.
When you contact the Kansas Department of Revenue or request your driving record, providing the credential number ensures they pull the correct file, even if there have been changes to your license number over the years.
How to request your driving record using your credential number
You can request an official copy of your Kansas driving record through the Kansas Department of Revenue. You have several options: online through their website, by mail, or in person at a local office.
When you request your record, you can provide either your credential number or your driver's license number — both will work. However, using your credential number can be faster because it goes directly to your permanent file without any ambiguity.
The state charges a small fee for an official driving record, though the amount varies depending on how you request it and how many copies you need. Processing times range from a few days for online requests to one to two weeks for mail requests.
What information appears in your driving record
Your Kansas driving record contains your complete history as a licensed driver in the state. This includes all traffic violations, accidents you reported, license suspensions or revocations, points on your record, and any restrictions or endorsements on your license.
Insurance companies, employers, and courts can request your driving record to assess your driving history. A clean record — one with no violations or accidents — typically results in lower insurance rates and better job prospects for positions that require driving.
You can request your own record at any time to check for errors or to see what information the state has on file about you. If you find a mistake, you can contact the Kansas Department of Revenue to request a correction.
Protecting your credential number and license information
Your credential number, like your driver's license number, is personal information that should be treated carefully. Do not share it with strangers or post it online, as it can be used to look up your driving record.
When you provide your credential number to request your record or contact a government agency, make sure you are dealing with an official Kansas Department of Revenue channel — their website, a phone number listed on their official site, or an in-person office location.
If your license is lost or stolen, report it to the Kansas Department of Revenue right away. They can flag your credential number in their system to prevent someone else from misusing it.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I cannot find my credential number on my license?
Contact the Kansas Department of Revenue by phone or visit a local office in person. They can look up your credential number using your name and date of birth. You can also request your driving record online through their website, which will display your credential number.
Does my credential number change if I renew my license?
No. Your credential number stays the same for life, even when you renew your license multiple times. This is what makes it useful for tracking your permanent driving record with the state.
Can I use my credential number instead of my driver's license number?
In most cases involving the Kansas Department of Revenue, yes — your credential number will work. However, for everyday identification purposes like boarding a plane or entering a government building, you will need to use your actual driver's license number or present your physical license card.
Where do I find the Kansas Department of Revenue phone number to ask about my credential number?
The Kansas Department of Revenue's contact information is available on the official state website. Search for "Kansas Department of Revenue driver's license" to find their phone number, office locations, and hours of operation.
Will my credential number appear on a Real ID compliant Kansas license?
Yes. Real ID compliant licenses issued by Kansas still include your credential number. The credential number is a standard part of all Kansas driver's licenses regardless of whether they meet Real ID standards.