What an audit number is and where to find it

An audit number on your Texas driver's license is a unique identifier printed on the back of your card. It appears as a series of numbers and letters, usually in the lower right corner of the back side. This number is separate from your driver's license number itself and serves as a verification tool for law enforcement and other agencies to confirm the authenticity of your license.

The audit number is not something you request or receive separately — it is printed directly on your physical card when the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) issues or renews your license. If you have your card in hand, you can locate it by flipping the card over and looking at the bottom right area of the back.

You may need this number if you are verifying your identity online, responding to a DPS inquiry, or working with law enforcement on a traffic matter. Some third-party verification systems also ask for it to confirm your license is valid and has not been suspended or revoked.

Key Takeaways

  • The audit number is printed on the back of your Texas driver's license in the lower right corner and is used to verify your license is authentic.
  • You do not request an audit number — it is automatically included when DPS issues or renews your license.
  • If you cannot locate the number on your physical card, you can contact DPS directly or check your license information through the online portal.
  • The audit number is different from your driver's license number and your Social Security number.
  • Keep your audit number private, as it can be used to verify sensitive information about your license status.

How to read the back of your Texas license

The back of a Texas driver's license contains several pieces of information arranged in a specific layout. Below your photo and personal details, you will see a barcode, your driver's license number, and other security features. The audit number typically appears as a small string of characters near the bottom right, sometimes labeled or sometimes appearing without a label depending on when your license was issued.

If the print is difficult to read, hold the card under good lighting or use a magnifying glass. The audit number is usually printed in a smaller font than your main license number, so it can be straightforward to miss on first glance. If you still cannot locate it, your physical card may be too worn or damaged to read clearly, which is a sign you may need a replacement.

When you need your audit number

You may be asked for your audit number in several situations. Law enforcement officers conducting traffic stops sometimes request it as part of license verification. Online identity verification systems, particularly those used by government agencies or financial institutions, may ask for it to confirm your license details match their records.

If you are responding to a notice from DPS about your license status — such as a suspension, revocation, or renewal reminder — the agency may reference your audit number in their correspondence. You should have your license handy when you contact DPS so you can provide this number if asked.

What to do if you cannot find your audit number

If your license is damaged, faded, or too old to read clearly, you have two main options. First, you can contact the Texas Department of Public Safety directly by phone at 1-888-589-6789 or visit a local DPS office in person. Have your driver's license number and date of birth ready, and staff can look up your audit number in their system and read it to you over the phone.

Second, you can log into your account on the Texas DPS website if you have set one up. Some license information, including verification details, may be visible through your online account. If neither option works or if your license is too damaged to use, you may want to order a replacement license, which will come with a new audit number printed on the back.

Protecting your audit number

Because your audit number can be used to verify your identity and license status, treat it similarly to how you would treat your driver's license number or Social Security number. Do not share it with unknown callers, in unsecured emails, or on websites you do not recognize. Scammers sometimes pose as DPS or law enforcement and request this information over the phone.

If someone contacts you asking for your audit number and you are unsure whether they are legitimate, hang up and call DPS directly using the official number on their website. Real government agencies will not pressure you to provide sensitive information when ready or threaten consequences if you do not comply.

Replacing your license if the audit number is unreadable

If your license is so worn or damaged that you cannot read the audit number, you can order a replacement through the Texas DPS website or by visiting a local DPS office. A replacement license costs a fee that varies depending on whether you are renewing early or replacing a damaged card. You will receive a new physical card with a new audit number printed on the back.

When you receive your replacement, take a moment to locate and note your new audit number in a safe place, separate from your wallet. This way, if you ever need it and your card is not available, you will have it recorded.

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 your license, usually printed on the front. The audit number is a separate verification code printed on the back and serves a different purpose in confirming your license's authenticity.

Can I look up my audit number online without my physical card?

You may be able to view it through your Texas DPS online account if you have one set up. If not, you will need to contact DPS by phone at 1-888-589-6789 or visit a local office in person with your identification.

What should I do if someone asks for my audit number over the phone?

Be cautious. Legitimate DPS staff will identify themselves clearly and explain why they need the information. If you are unsure, hang up and call DPS directly using the official number on their website rather than using a number the caller provided.

Does my audit number change when I renew my license?

Yes. When you renew your license, you receive a new physical card with a new audit number printed on it. The old audit number is no longer valid for verification purposes.

What if my license is so old that the audit number format looks different?

Older Texas licenses may have different formatting or placement of the audit number. If you cannot locate it or read it, contact DPS directly or consider ordering a replacement license to get a current card with a clearly printed audit number.