Driver’s License Number (DLN)

A driver’s license number is a specific identification number assigned to a driver by the issuing government agency. This number is usually required to be displayed on the individual’s driver’s license issued by his or her state. Many public and private groups use the driver's license numbers of individuals as a unique identifier in record keeping.

Most states assign a unique identifying number to each driver upon issuance of a driver’s license to that individual. The driver’s license is the state’s authorization permitting that person to drive on public roads. The driver’s license number is usually printed on this license. Some states use the individual’s social security number as his or her driver’s license number while other states have specific protocols for creating numeric identifiers for each driver. Individuals who cannot or do not wish to obtain a driver’s license may still seek to obtain an identification card number that can be substituted as official identification.