Free Request to Place a Fraud Alert on a Drivers License

The Department of Motor Vehicles will require that you provide documents verifying your identity and showing that you have been the victim of a fraudulent use incident. Therefore, you should contact your local Department of Motor Vehicles prior to writing the letter in order to determine exactly what information will be needed.

Photocopies, not the original copies, of any relevant documents should be included with the letter (unless originals are required). You should keep a copy of all written communications with the Department of Motor Vehicles and maintain a written summary of all oral communications.

If your driver's license is lost or stolen, or if you suspect that it has been or will be fraudulently used, you should report your concerns to the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) immediately. Ask how to obtain a replacement card and request that a fraud alert be placed on your license.

Except in unusual circumstances, you will have to appear in person at your local DMV office to obtain a new card.

Before you go to your local DMV office, you should find out from the DMV what documentation will be required. If your driver's license number is the same as your social security number (SSN), you should request that an alternate number be used on the replacement card. Using your social security number on your driver's license exposes you to greater risk of identity theft, because of the high frequency of using your driver's license for identification. When you go to the local DMV office to obtain a new card, be sure that your SSN is not used on your new card.

Fraud Alerts
If your only request is that a new card be issued, then a letter to the DMV will probably not be needed. But if you have already received a new card and wish to have a fraud alert added, then you should use this letter. A fraud alert puts the DMV on notice to be more aware of suspicious activity regarding your license. Before placing a fraud alert on your license, the DMV may require proof of fraudulent activity. You can use this letter to confirm your conversation and to send the necessary documentation.

1. The letter should be signed, but it is not necessary that the signature be witnessed or notarized.

2. Be sure to attach any evidence of the identity theft incident, if applicable.

3. Retain a copy of the letter for your records. Keep the original copies of any enclosures, unless you are required to send the originals. If you send an original, keep a copy.

4. Although not required, sending the letter in a manner that can be tracked (e.g., overnight courier or certified mail/return receipt requested) is highly advisable. It may assist you in the event you need evidence of receipt of the letter.

5. After a reasonable amount of time has passed, follow up to make sure that any request action was actually taken.