Your audit number is a six-digit code printed on your Texas driver's license that the Department of Public Safety uses to verify your identity during transactions

The audit number appears in the bottom right corner of your license, below your signature line. It looks like a string of six numbers — for example, 123456. Texas DPS assigns this number when your license is issued and keeps it tied to your record in their system. You will need this number if you are renewing your license by mail, replacing a lost or stolen license, or updating your address without visiting a DPS office in person.

The audit number is not the same as your driver's license number (which appears in the upper right) or your date of birth. It is a verification tool that DPS uses to confirm you are the person requesting the transaction and that your record exists in their database. When you submit a renewal or replacement request without appearing in person, DPS asks for this number to match your process against their records.

Key Takeaways

  • Your audit number is a six-digit code in the bottom right corner of your Texas driver's license, below your signature.
  • You need this number to renew by mail, replace a lost license, or change your address without visiting a DPS office.
  • The audit number is different from your driver's license number and serves as a verification tool for remote transactions.
  • If you cannot locate your audit number, you can call DPS at 1-888-589-6789 or visit a local DPS office to request it.

When you will need your audit number

Mail-in renewal is the most common reason you will use your audit number. Texas allows drivers to renew their license by mail if they are not required to take a new photo (usually if your license is not expiring within 90 days and you have no medical restrictions). The renewal form asks for your audit number so DPS can pull your existing record and verify the request is legitimate.

Replacing a lost, stolen, or damaged license also requires your audit number if you explore by mail or through the DPS website. When you report your license missing, DPS uses the audit number to confirm your identity before issuing a replacement. If you are changing your address without renewing your license, some transactions may ask for it as well, though address changes can often be done online through the DPS portal without it.

How to find your audit number on your license

Look at the bottom right corner of your driver's license, just below the area where your signature appears. The audit number is printed in small text and consists of six digits. On older Texas licenses, the placement may vary slightly, but it is always in the lower right quadrant of the card. If your license is worn or faded, you may need to hold it under good lighting to read the number clearly.

If you have a digital copy of your license through the Texas DPS mobile app, you can view your audit number there as well. The app displays your license information in the same layout as the physical card, so the audit number appears in the same position.

What to do if you cannot find or remember your audit number

Call the DPS Customer Service line at 1-888-589-6789. Have your driver's license number and date of birth ready. A representative can look up your audit number in the system and provide it over the phone. Wait times vary depending on call volume, but the line is typically available Monday through Friday during business hours.

You can also visit any DPS office in person and ask for your audit number. Bring your current license or another form of ID. The staff will print or write down your audit number for you. If you have lost your license entirely and do not have another form of ID, bring documents that prove your identity and residency — such as a utility bill, lease, or bank statement — and DPS can still look up the number.

Using your audit number for online and mail transactions

When you renew by mail, fill out Form DL-44 (process for Texas Driver License) and include your audit number in the designated field. Mail the form along with any required documents to the address listed on the form. DPS processes mail renewals within two to three weeks under normal circumstances, though processing times can be longer during peak periods.

If you are using the DPS website to request a replacement license or check your record, you will enter your audit number along with your license number and date of birth. This three-piece information allows DPS to verify you are the license holder before processing your request. Do not share your audit number with anyone except DPS or a trusted representative handling your license transaction on your behalf.

Audit number versus other numbers on your license

Your driver's license number (the main identification number) appears in the upper right corner and is what you use when you are pulled over or need to provide your license number for official purposes. Your audit number is smaller, appears lower on the card, and is used only for internal DPS verification during mail-in or online transactions. Your Social Security number does not appear on your Texas license at all.

The distinction matters because you should never need to provide your audit number to law enforcement, insurance companies, or employers. It is strictly for DPS transactions. If someone asks for your audit number outside of a DPS renewal or replacement process, verify they are actually with DPS before providing it.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if my audit number is smudged or illegible on my license?

Call DPS at 1-888-589-6789 and provide your license number and date of birth. They will give you the correct audit number over the phone. You can also visit a local DPS office with your license and ask them to confirm the number for you.

Do I need my audit number to renew in person at a DPS office?

No. If you are renewing in person, you only need to bring your current license and proof of residency. The audit number is required only for mail-in renewals, online transactions, and replacements submitted without appearing in person.

Can I use my audit number to check my driving record?

No. To order your driving record from DPS, you will need your driver's license number, not your audit number. You can request your record online through the DPS website or by mail using Form DL-43.

Is my audit number the same on every Texas license I have had?

No. Each time DPS issues you a new license — whether for renewal, replacement, or address change — they may assign a new audit number. Check your current license for the audit number you need for your current transaction.