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What is on the Back of a California Driver License?

The Back of a California Driver License

The reverse side of all licenses contains information about class, endorsements, and restrictions.

It also features a 2D barcode that displays the same information found on the front of the card. The magnetic stripe also contains the same information.

A laser perforation makes it possible to see the outline of the California brown bear from the front of the card when a flashlight is pressed against the back.




CA Driver’s License and Identification Card

The California Department of Motor Vehicles annually issues about 9 million driver’s licenses and identification cards. A driver’s license or identification card is the primary form of identification in California. It is valid for all purposes except international travel. All licenses and ID cards must be authenticated and accurate to properly identify an individual. That is why they include several security features.

What is on the Front of a California Driver License?

  • A. There are two photos on your license or ID card. A smaller and lighter-colored UV image is visible under ultraviolet light.
  • B. Your signature is engraved with raised lettering that can be felt by touch.
  • C. Two lines are used for your name. Your last name is displayed on the first line, and the second line shows your first and middle names. This format simplifies the display of different naming conventions.
  • D. If you are under 21 years old, you will be issued a vertical license or ID card. The vertical format helps retailers and law enforcement quickly identify the cardholder’s age.

What Does DD on the Bottom of the License Stand For?

DD at the bottom of the card stands for Document Discriminator, which is a unique number that helps identify and authenticate the license.

The front of a California License with  A smaller and lighter color UV Image is visible under ultraviolet light.

The front of a California License with your name on two lines.

The vertical format of a California Driver License

The Back of a California Driver License

  • E. The magnetic stripe on the reverse side of the driver’s license or ID card holds the same information found on the front of the card.
  • F. DMV has added a laser perforation to the card. You can see the outline of the California brown bear from the front of the card when a flashlight is pressed against the back.
  • G. The new 2D barcode on the reverse side holds the same information on the card’s front.
  • The Back of a California Driver License

    When You Move to California

    When should you apply for a license if you move to California?

    If you move and want to drive in California, you must apply for a California driver’s license within 10 days.

    If you have a valid license from another state, the DMV usually waives the knowledge and driving tests.

    Where Can I Find the CA Test Questions?

    Test questions for your California knowledge test are found at https://driversprep.com/california