Protecting your identity

Identity theft is a growing problem. We manage potential issues and risks proactively through regularly reviewing security measures in tackling fraud, strengthening identity security and ensuring ongoing protection of the learner permit and driver licence card. 

We already have a range of strong security measures in place to protect the information we hold. Identity security is central to Australia's security, law enforcement and economic interests, and vital in protecting citizens from the theft and misuse of their identities. 

To avoid your identity being stolen and used for fraudulent purposes, you need to be careful with your personal information and this includes your driver licence information.

If your driver licence or learner permit has been stolen, it’s important to report it to Victoria Police as soon as possible.

How to protect your identity 

• Destroy your old driver licence when the new one arrives. Your old driver licence may be a souvenir to you, but it is also a valuable piece of identity information to a criminal.
• Be cautious about handing over your licence card or providing the details on your licence. Make sure you understand how the information will be used and how securely it will be stored. Always question the need to scan or photocopy your learner permit or licence card.
• Make sure you have a secure lockable letter box and that you clear it regularly so that new mail can be delivered.
• If your learner permit or driver licence is stolen make sure you report it to VicRoads immediately and apply for a replacement.
• If a learner permit or driver licence is no longer required because you have moved interstate or overseas, or a relative is deceased, make sure VicRoads is notified so that the licence record can be cancelled. This will prevent the licence from being used illegally by someone else.
• You must by law notify VicRoads of a change of address within 14 days. However, it is also important that you change your address as mail sent to your previous address may be left lying around making it easy prey for criminals.

The Australian Government Crime Prevention website has information on preventing and responding to identity fraud.

Identity theft

If your identity has been stolen, VicRoads may consider changing your driver licence or learner permit number.

Although a new driver licence or learner permit number will help to separate you from future fraudulent activity involving your old number, it won’t necessarily prevent it from being used. VicRoads is unable to prevent other organisations from accepting your previous licence information.

Am I eligible to have my driver licence or learner permit number changed?

You can apply for a new driver licence or learner permit number if your:

• identity has been stolen and there is evidence of fraudulent use of your driver licence or learner permit number, or your unique card number or
• request to change your driver licence or learner permit number relates to a domestic violence situation.

When am I not eligible to have my driver licence or learner permit number changed?

You are not eligible for a new driver licence or learner permit number if:

• You have lost or misplaced your driver licence or learner permit.
• Your driver licence or learner permit has been stolen.
• Your driver licence or learner permit card was destroyed in a natural disaster event (e.g., fire, floods, etc).
• You’re the victim of a data breach and there is no evidence confirming your driver licence or learner permit number or your unique card number was exposed or that the number was used fraudulently.
• You’re receiving infringement notices due to false nominations. In this scenario you’ll need to contact the enforcement authority directly.

In the above circumstances, you can order a replacement driver licence or learner permit card. A fee applies. The replacement card will include a new unique card number which will automatically provide you additional protection via the Document Verification Service (DVS).

How to apply for a new licence or permit number

To apply for a new driver licence or learner permit number you’ll need to provide one of the document combinations below:

Combination one

This option requires only one of the following documents relevant to the circumstances of the request:

• a Commonwealth Victim’s Certificate or
• a Court extract.

Combination two

This option must also include a Statutory Declaration plus the following two documents:

• A letter on company letterhead from the relevant service provider, confirming the driver licence or learner permit number and/or unique card number has been used fraudulently.
• A Victoria Police Incident Report (VP FORM L1) indicating that the person has been the victim of fraudulent activity involving their driver licence or learner permit information resulting in financial disadvantage to the victim. For example, the offender is in possession of and is using the victim's personal information for financial gain by deception. 

All applications must include:

• a clear description of the circumstances and reason for the request for a new driver licence or learner permit number
• all the required supporting evidence/documentation
• the driver licence or learner permit holder’s contact details.

You can email your completed application to [email protected] or send it by mail to:

Demerit Points and Offence Management
Department of Transport and Planning 
GPO Box 2392 
Melbourne 3001

Once your application has been assessed, we’ll contact you regarding the outcome and what you need to do to get your new driver licence or learner permit number.