The Role of DMV in Running Your Social Security Number and What They Can Find Out

The Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) has the authority to run your Social Security Number (SSN) as part of the process for issuing your driver's license or identification card. This article will explore the extent of the DMV's access to your personal information, the types of data they can access, and the privacy considerations involved in this process.

DMV Access to Your Personal Information

When you apply for a driver's license or identification card, the DMV typically requires your SSN to verify your identity and ensure there are no duplicates in their system. This process involves the DMV accessing several types of personal information and records.

Information the DMV Can Access

Driving Record: The DMV can access your driving history, including any traffic violations, accidents, and points on your license. Personal Identification: Your name, date of birth, address, and other personal information are stored in their system. License Status: They can check if your current license is valid, expired, suspended, or revoked. Vehicle Registration: If you own a vehicle, they can access information about your registered vehicles. Insurance Information: In some states, they may also check your insurance status. Criminal History: Depending on the state, they might have access to certain criminal records related to driving offenses.

Privacy Considerations

While the DMV has access to these records, they are subject to privacy laws and regulations that restrict how they can use and share your information. However, there are instances where they may share certain information with law enforcement and other governmental agencies as required by law.

Concerns About Privacy

If you have specific concerns about privacy or the information the DMV has on file, it is beneficial to contact your local DMV office or check their website for details on privacy policies and data access.

Historical Context and Changes

The process for issuing driver's licenses and the use of Social Security numbers (SSNs) have undergone significant changes over the years. Historically, there was no cross-referencing done, and the DMV simply asked for your name, address, and birthdate. No one often bothered to check your information, and you were trusted to tell the truth.

Examples of Past Issues

As an illustrative example, my grandmother was renewing her license in the 1990s, and at that time, the driver's license number was her SSN. She had given an incorrect birth year in the 1930s to appear younger, and this discrepancy went unnoticed for 50 years. In the 1990s, when the DMV started linking licenses to SSNs, she received a letter from the Social Security Administration (SSA) informing her that her birth year was different. She was required to bring in her birth certificate within a set period to correct the information, or her license would be revoked.

This change highlighted that DMVs now cross-reference SSNs with other databases and records. Before the 1990s, there was no such cross-referencing, making it easier for individuals to err or manipulate their personal information. Now, with advanced databases and computers, it is significantly more challenging to maintain false information.

Identification of Immigrants with False SSNs

It is important to note that since the 1990s, DMVs in many states have started cross-referencing Social Security records. This process helps identify immigrants who might be using someone else's Social Security number to obtain a driver's license and possibly a job. Previously, there was no comprehensive system to cross-check this information, making it much easier for undocumented immigrants to use false identification.

Conclusion

In summary, while the DMV has the authority to run your SSN as part of the driver's license or identification card application process, their access to your personal information is closely monitored by privacy laws and regulations. States vary in their rules, with some more stringent than others regarding cross-referencing and data access. Understanding these regulations and personal information handling practices can help you stay informed and protect your privacy.