As notaries, we are trained to handle sensitive personal information with the utmost care. Every day, we safeguard the identities of our signers and maintain strict compliance with state laws. Yet, when it comes to our own personal information, many of us don’t exercise the same level of caution.

One growing concern is the practice of hiring companies requesting a notary’s driver’s license during the application or onboarding process. While there are legitimate reasons an employer may need to confirm your identity, not every request is justified—or safe.

Why Your Driver’s License Matters

Your driver’s license isn’t just a photo ID—it’s a treasure trove of data. It includes:

• Your full legal name
• Date of birth
• Home address
• Driver’s license number
• Sometimes even a physical description or unique identifiers

In the wrong hands, this information can be exploited for identity theft, fraudulent accounts, or even impersonation. Sharing your license without knowing how it will be handled is a risk no professional should take.

When It’s Reasonable to Share

There are situations where providing your driver’s license may be appropriate, such as:

• Verifying your identity for employment eligibility or background checks
• Meeting state or company requirements tied to compliance
• Accessing certain secure facilities

But even in these cases, you deserve to know exactly how your information will be managed.

Questions to Ask Beforehand

If a hiring company asks for your driver’s license, pause and ask the following:

1. How will this information be stored? (Paper file? Encrypted digital system?)
2. Who will have access to it? (Is it limited to HR staff, or is it more broadly available?)
3. How long will it be retained? (Is there a policy for securely deleting or destroying it?)
4. What safeguards are in place against a breach? (Encryption, firewalls, physical locks?)

If the company cannot answer these questions clearly—or their answers raise red flags—you have every right to protect your information and ask for alternatives.

Red Flags to Watch Out For

Be cautious if:

• The company says they want to “keep it on file” without explanation.
• They refuse to explain their security measures.
• They pressure you to provide it immediately without discussion.

A legitimate company will respect your caution and transparency.

Protecting Yourself Protects Your Clients

As notaries, our credibility is built on trust, integrity, and confidentiality. Protecting our own sensitive information isn’t just about personal security—it reflects the same professional standards we uphold for others.

By being cautious about when and how you share your driver’s license, you set an example for your peers, reinforce your professionalism, and minimize your exposure to unnecessary risks.

Final Thought

The next time a hiring company requests a copy of your driver’s license, don’t just hand it over. Ask questions. Evaluate their security practices. And remember: protecting yourself is just as important as protecting the people you serve.