Question: Is there any downside to letting a car dealer have a photocopy of my driver's license?

June 18, 2005

Hello Tony

One dealership (here in Colorado) asked to photocopy my driver's license before taking the vehicle out for a solo test-ride (which seems to be reasonable).

If I do not purchase the vehicle, I plan on asking for the photocopy. Is there any downside to having them have a photocopy the driver's license? (There is no social security number on it.)

Thanks again

Dan

Answer:

Hi Dan,

Photocopying your driver's license is a standard practice in most dealers. As long as you social security number isn't on it you're OK. In fact, most dealer's insurance companies require this before allowing test drives.

The only downside is that they have your name, address and driver's license number. I don't know what they could really do with this info, but I suppose if that info falls into the hands of a diabolical criminal mind it might be of some use. I've never heard of problems though.

By all means ask for the photocopy back. Even though they could have already recorded the info. Again, I don't believe It's worth worrying about. Now, if your SS # was on it that would be a whole different ballgame! You don't want to give that up too soon!

All my very best...

Tony Iorio