FACT: A driver’s license is the most requested form of ID in North America. Whether writing a check, applying for a loan, boarding an airplane or taking care of other routine activities, a drivers license is the most widely accepted form of identification. Now more than ever, it’s important that this ID be valid. New licensing rules and other actions will help to establish a more secure driver’s license, and will help address our shared concern over national security, identity theft and highway safety. The Link Between National Security and Licensing Since September 11, 2001, the importance of valid IDs has taken on a new dimension - national security. Lawbreakers, who cannot or will not provide valid identification or other required documentation, often try to beat the system. People have successfully used fake names and counterfeit documents to get driver’s licenses and IDs. We need assurance that the person presenting a driver’s license is who they say they are. What About Identity Theft? FACT: Identity theft is America’s fastest growing crime. Identity theft happens when someone commits a crime using personal information such as your name, driver’s license, Social Security number, credit card number or other ID, without your permission. Last year alone, almost 10 million Americans were victims of identity theft (US Federal Trade Commission). Identity theft victims spend an average of 600 hours and $1,400 recovering from the crime (Identity Theft Resource Center). Improving the standards for accurate identification will make it more difficult for someone to obtain a driver’s license using another person’s name. Valid IDs Help Keep Highways Safer The new requirements will help ensure that everyone with a license has earned the privilege to drive. Getting a fraudulent license will be much more difficult for those whose licenses have been revoked for unsafe driving. In addition, teens will have one less resource for getting fake IDs to buy alcohol, a major contributor to auto accidents involving youth.     FACT: Twenty percent of all fatal crashes involve improperly licensed drivers.         This site is maintained by the American Association of Motor Vehicle Administrators.