Oregon DMV is preparing to start issuing alphanumeric customer numbers that will display on Oregon Driver Licenses and Identification Cards.
 
The first information release was sent out in September of 2011. In March of 2012, DMV requested feedback on the impacts that issuing alphanumeric customer numbers might have on the computer systems of agencies and companies. The feedback indicates that there is little or no impact. If you have not replied yet, please complete the online feedback form.

The customer number is a seven-character number that uniquely identifies each customer for all Oregon DMV transactions. The Oregon DMV customer number is located above the customer name on all Oregon Driver Licenses, Identification Cards and Permits. Examples are provided in the Information Releases above.

The all-numeric customer number series is nearing the end of its run. Eventually there will be no more unique all-numeric customer numbers available for new customers. The next series of unique seven-character customer numbers will include alphabetic and numeric characters. This new alphanumeric series will provide enough unique customer numbers to meet the future needs of our customers.

DMV asked for feedback in March of 2012. There is sill time if you haven't provided feedback or if you have questions. DMV has an online feedback form that allow you to provide feedback, ask questions, and request that future information releases be sent to you by e-mail. You may also call the project feedback line at (503) 945-7659.

The more we know, the better we can serve you.

Law enforcement agencies, government agencies, and private industry need to be aware that DMV will begin issuing Oregon Driver Licenses and Identification Cards with an alphanumeric number. This knowledge will ensure that Oregon residents will not be turned away or refused services because an alphanumeric customer number is displayed on their Oregon Driver License or Identification Card.
 
Some technology systems might need modification in order to use, transfer, or read alphanumeric customer numbers. This includes any data solutions that use, store, or reference the DMV customer number that displays on the front of Oregon Driver Licenses and Identification Cards. Some data solutions also include barcode readers that use the 1-D and 2-D barcodes located on the back of Oregon Driver Licenses and Identification Cards. 
 
If you have not replied yet, please complete the feedback form to provide information on how the change to the DMV customer number impacts your organization.  You can also register to receive email updates on the change to alphanumeric customer numbers.

After October 21, 2013, you will start to see Oregon Driver Licenses and Identification Cards with alphanumeric customer numbers.

You do not need to replace your Oregon Driver License, Identification Card, or Instruction Permit as a result of DMV issuing alphanumeric customer numbers to new customers. Alphanumeric customer numbers will only be issued to customers who have never had a transaction with Oregon DMV before.
 
Both numeric and alphanumeric customer numbers are valid.
 
Customer numbers are located above your name on Oregon Driver Licenses, Identification Cards, and Instruction Permits. Examples are provided in the information Releases above.

The first alphanumeric customer number issued will be A000001 followed by A000002 and will continue in sequence until all the unique variations that start with the letter "A" are used. At the current rate of issuance, this should take approximately six years.
 
The "B" series will follow with B000001, B000002, etc. This pattern of sequencing will continue throughout the alphabet. The next series will begin with "AA." Over time, all seven-character spaces will eventually contain a letter.

There are 1-D and 2-D barcodes located on the back of Oregon Driver Licenses and Identification Cards. Use the Barcode Reader Test Sheet to test your barcode readers.

Be sure that your barcode reader works with both all-numeric and alphanumeric customer numbers. Both numeric and alphanumeric customer numbers are valid and both will be in circulation well into the foreseeable future.

If you need additional barcode information please call the project feedback line at (503) 945-7659.

Additional information that may be relevant includes: