I lost my driver’s license. How can I get my license number?

Here are the most common ways you might be able to find your driver’s license number:

1. Check Personal Records

Look in other documents where you may have recorded or used your license number:

• Auto Insurance Documents: Your license number is often required when getting a policy, so it may be stored in your online account or on a paper copy of your policy, application, or quote.
• Vehicle Registration: In some places, your driver’s license number is printed on your vehicle registration or on renewal notices you received.
• Expired/Old Licenses: If you have an expired driver’s license or even an old learner’s permit from the same state, the number is often the same.
• Work/Employment Documents: If you used your license as a form of ID for a job, your employer’s HR or onboarding paperwork might contain the number.
• Canceled Checks: Some retailers would write your driver’s license number on canceled checks when you used them for payment. Check your bank’s online archives for images of old checks.
• Digital Copies: Search your email, cloud storage (like Google Drive/Photos or iCloud), or computer files. You might have saved a picture or scan of your license.

2. Contact the Issuing Agency

The best official resource is your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), Department of Driver Services (DDS), or equivalent agency.

• Call the Customer Service Center: Many agencies may be willing to give you your number over the phone after you successfully answer a series of security and identity verification questions (like your full name, date of birth, address, and perhaps other details).
• Visit an Office In-Person: If other options fail, you will likely need to visit a local office in person to get a replacement license. They will be able to retrieve your number from their system after you present other identifying documents (like a birth certificate, passport, or Social Security card).

3. Apply for a Replacement License

Keep in mind that if you’ve lost your license, you should eventually apply for a replacement to avoid issues with law enforcement or needing to present ID.

In some states, you can apply for a replacement online, but often only if you have your license number already. If you don’t have it, you’ll almost certainly need to go in person to the DMV/DDS to verify your identity and get a new card.