Protect Yourself from Driver's License Identity Theft

•           1^st degree forgery

•           2^nd degree forgery 

•           identity theft 

•           possession of multiple identification cards 

•           making false statements on the application for a driver's license

•           fraudulent use of a driver's license
 

Prevention Tips 

Though all types of identity theft are on the rise, there is no need for you to become the next victim. Just as you would guard your Social Security card, a driver's license should be protected in the same manner.  

In many instances, there may be individuals who request that you leave a driver's license with them.  This is typically the case when you are test driving a car or apartment shopping.  Your driver's license should never be used as a form of collateral or security deposit.  Also keep in mind that a respectable sales person will usually not make this type of request.  Don't be afraid to test them - tell them that you're not comfortable leaving your license because a friend was victimized by identity theft.  The resulting action or response may determine the legitimacy of their efforts.  

Individuals should certainly take advantage of technology in the many automated renewal options.  This enables them to easily renew a driver's license via telephone, mail or internet.  It is also a good idea to destroy an old license upon receiving the replacement by mail to keep others from intercepting it and stealing your identity. 

Copies of your driving record can usually be purchased for minimal fee.  This will detail any tickets that have not been issued directly to you, as well as any other fraudulent behavior. 

You should also remember this: just because an individual or business asks for your license, it does not mean you have to oblige.  Try your luck by asking for other options of validation and see what the response is.  In most cases, there are really few legitimate reasons for someone to keep possession of your driver's license while you're both in separate locations.

Anyone can be a victim of identity theft.  Being careless with a driver's license is a path that leads directly to it.  Your license should be guarded at all times to keep your personal information secure.  While you may not realize it, the information your driver's license contains can prove just as beneficial in the process of identity theft as the information obtained from a Social Security number or credit card. 
 

Reporting Driver's License Identity Theft

Fully aware of the dangers concerning driver's license identity theft, many agencies have established support systems for reporting suspected criminal activity.  They typically require a victim to include a name, date of birth, driver's license number and contact information.  The system may also require details concerning the suspect or any information regarding the identity theft situation.