The audit number is a six-digit code printed on the back of your Texas driver's license, usually in the upper right corner

The audit number on a Texas driver's license is a unique identifier that the Department of Public Safety uses to track and verify license records. It appears as a six-digit number and is located on the back of your physical card, typically positioned in the upper right area of the reverse side.

This number is separate from your driver's license number itself. While your license number identifies you as a driver in Texas, the audit number serves as an internal tracking code for the state's records system. You may need to reference it when requesting official copies of your driving record, disputing license information, or dealing with certain administrative matters through DPS.

The exact placement can vary slightly depending on when your license was issued, as Texas has updated its card design over the years. If you cannot locate it in the upper right corner, scan the entire back of the card — it will always be printed directly on the plastic, not on a separate label or sticker.

Key Takeaways

  • The audit number is a six-digit code on the back of your Texas driver's license, usually in the upper right corner.
  • It is different from your driver's license number and serves as an internal tracking code for the Texas Department of Public Safety.
  • You may need this number when requesting your driving record or resolving issues with your license information.
  • If your license was issued several years ago, the audit number location may differ slightly due to card design updates.

Why Texas includes an audit number on licenses

The audit number exists to help the Texas Department of Public Safety manage and verify license records internally. When you request your driving record, renew your license, or dispute information on your account, DPS staff use this number to pull up your exact record in their system and confirm it matches the physical card you hold.

This tracking system also helps prevent fraud and duplicate records. If someone tries to obtain a license under false information or if a clerical error creates two records under your name, the audit number helps DPS identify and resolve the problem. It is part of the state's quality control process for driver's licenses.

How to read the audit number on your card

Hold your Texas driver's license with the back facing you. Look toward the upper right portion of the card — you should see a six-digit number printed in small text. This is your audit number. Write it down carefully if you need to reference it, as the small print can be hard to read under poor lighting.

If the print is difficult to see, try holding the card under bright light or near a window. The number will be printed directly on the plastic in black or dark ink. Do not confuse it with other numbers on the back of the card, such as the expiration date or your license number, which appear in different locations.

When you might need to provide your audit number

You may be asked for your audit number in a few specific situations. If you contact the Texas Department of Public Safety to request your official driving record, the representative may ask for it to speed up the search. If you are disputing information on your license or reporting an error in your record, providing the audit number helps DPS locate your file quickly.

Some third-party services that pull driving records on your behalf may also request this number, though they can usually retrieve your record using your license number and date of birth alone. If a DPS representative or official government office asks for it, provide it — but be cautious about sharing it with private companies unless you initiated the request yourself.

What to do if you cannot find the audit number

If you have looked carefully at the back of your license and cannot locate a six-digit number in the upper right area, your license may have been issued before the audit number system was implemented, or the print may be worn or faded. Older Texas licenses do not always include this number.

If you need this information, contact the Texas Department of Public Safety directly. You can reach them through their website or by calling their customer service line. Have your driver's license number and date of birth ready, and they can provide your audit number or help you understand what information is available on your specific license.

Audit number versus other numbers on your license

Your Texas driver's license contains several different numbers, and it is straightforward to mix them up. Your driver's license number is the main identifier and appears on the front of the card. Your audit number is the six-digit code on the back used for internal tracking. Your license also displays an expiration date, which is when you must renew.

If you are asked for a specific number, make sure you understand which one is being requested. When dealing with DPS or government offices, they will usually specify "audit number" if that is what they need. For most everyday purposes — like providing your license to a police officer or verifying your identity — you will only need to show the front of your card with your license number.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

No. Your driver's license number is the main identifier on the front of your card. The audit number is a separate six-digit code on the back that Texas DPS uses internally to track and verify your record. They serve different purposes.

Do I need to memorize my audit number?

You do not need to memorize it. Write it down or take a photo of the back of your license if you think you might need it. Most of the time, DPS can locate your record using just your license number and date of birth.

What if my audit number is faded or hard to read?

If the number is worn or unclear, contact the Texas Department of Public Safety. They can confirm your audit number from their records and help you if you need it for an official request. You may also consider renewing your license early if the card is significantly worn.

Can someone use my audit number to commit fraud?

The audit number alone is not sensitive information in the way a Social Security number is. However, do not share it unnecessarily. If a business or service you did not contact asks for it, verify that the request is legitimate before providing any information.

Where exactly on the back of the card is the audit number located?

It is typically in the upper right corner of the back of your license. Depending on when your license was issued, it may be positioned slightly differently. If you cannot find it there, scan the entire back of the card — it will be printed directly on the plastic in small text.