Confused about the Document Number for Driver’s License in Nigeria? Learn exactly where to find it, what it looks like, and how to use it for FRSC verification and online forms. Simple guide with image.
Getting a driver’s license in Nigeria is not easy. You go from VIO office to FRSC, stand in long queues, and sometimes wait for weeks. After all that stress, one small number on the card still causes problems — the document number.
We decided to write this post after seeing what happened to a Bolt driver in Abuja. Road safety officers stopped him during a routine check. They asked for his license and then requested the document number for verification. The poor guy had no idea which number was the document number. He tried using the license number, but it didn’t work. He was delayed for over an hour.
That’s why this guide is here — to help you avoid that kind of problem. Just read it to the end.
Now, let’s begin.
What Is the Document Number for Driver’s License in Nigeria?
The document number is a unique string of numbers and letters printed on your Nigerian driver’s license. It’s not the same as your license number. This one is usually found either near the top or bottom of the card, depending on the version of your license.
It’s what FRSC uses to track and verify that the license was issued officially. Think of it like the serial number of your card. Two licenses can’t have the same one.
Most people confuse it with their NDL number (Nigerian Driver’s License number), but they’re not the same thing.
Why Is the Document Number So Important?
This number is what confirms that your license is genuine. If you go to the FRSC website to verify your license, the portal may ask for this number. Without it, you might not be able to confirm your status.
Some people who apply for jobs abroad or even within Nigeria get stuck at the application stage because they enter the wrong license details.
If you’re processing an international driving permit or filling out forms with immigration, they might ask for your document number instead of your license number.
Where to Find the Document Number on Your Driver’s License Card
Now here’s where it gets a bit tricky.
There are two types of driver’s license cards currently in circulation in Nigeria — the old version and the newer one.
If you have the newer plastic card:
Flip the card and look for the code at the top right or bottom left corner.
It’s usually a mix of letters and numbers, about 10 to 12 characters long.
It doesn’t have the words “Document Number” written on it, so don’t expect to see that phrase.
If you only have the temporary paper slip issued by VIO or FRSC (the NDL slip):
Check for a code near the barcode area or under your photo section.
That may serve as the temporary document number before the plastic card is printed.
Difference Between License Number and Document Number
This is where many Nigerians get confused.
License number (NDL number): This is your main driving license number. It’s usually in the format ABC123456789.
Document number: This is the code attached to the document itself — the card. It changes when a new card is issued, even if the license number stays the same.
So if you renew your license or replace a lost card, your license number remains, but your document number will be different.
That’s why some verification portals ask for both.
Sample of Document Number Format in Nigeria
There is no one fixed pattern, but most document numbers follow this kind of structure:
NGB009934HS2
DOC45928NDK
FR123LID0098
These are just made-up samples, but they give you an idea of what to look for — a mix of letters and numbers. Some cards may have shorter ones like NDL56783 while others may have longer combinations.
Again, it won’t be clearly labeled. So just look carefully at every code printed on the card — especially the ones that look like serial numbers.
How to Retrieve Your Document Number if You Lost Your License
If you’ve lost your driver’s license and don’t have the card to check the number, here’s what you can do:
Check your NDL slip: If you still have the temporary slip issued when you first applied, the number might be printed there.
Visit the FRSC office: Go to the same center where you processed your license. Give them your full name and license number. They may be able to retrieve the document number from their system.
Try the FRSC verification portal: Sometimes, entering your license number and date of birth brings up the document number too.
Call the FRSC support line: If you’re not close to the office, call their official helpdesk and explain your situation.
Can You Use NIN as Your Driver’s License Document Number?
No, you can’t.
Your NIN (National Identification Number) is completely different from your license document number. They are used by different government agencies.
Some people assume they can use their NIN in place of the document number during online registrations or background checks. That’s wrong and will likely lead to rejection or delays.
Always make sure you are using the correct code printed on the license card.
Mistakes Nigerians Make with Driver’s License Details
There are a few issues that show up often:
Using license number instead of document number
Typing NIN instead of document number
Entering wrong formats (like including spaces or dashes)
Using old expired document numbers after renewing their card
Thinking the FRSC portal is down when the number is just wrong
Small mistakes like using the wrong number can delay things like job applications, national exams, or even travel plans. Before you type any number from your driver’s license, check the card well to be sure it’s correct.
Also, if you’ve paid with Remita before and don’t know how to get your receipt, see our post on How to Print Remita Receipt Without Paying an Agent. It will save you money.
What to Do if Your Document Number Isn’t Working on FRSC Portal
If you enter your document number on the FRSC license verification portal and it shows “No record found,” here’s what to do:
Double-check that you typed the number exactly as printed — no extra spaces or wrong letters.
Make sure the card isn’t expired. Some old cards may no longer be active in the system.
Try using your license number instead. Some parts of the portal accept that as an alternative.
Visit the nearest FRSC office for manual verification.
If the license was issued through a third-party agent, confirm that it was properly registered with the authorities.
Step-by-Step Guide to Verify Driver’s License with Document Number
If you want to check if your Nigerian driver’s license is valid using the document number, follow these steps:
Go to the official FRSC portal: https://www.nigeriadriverslicence.org/
Click on “DL Application” then “Re-issue of Driver’s License from Expired Driver’s License”
Enter your details — full name, date of birth, and either the license number or document number
If the document number is correct, it will bring up your license information, photo, and status
Print the result if you need it for submission
This helps a lot if you’re applying for visa processing, driving jobs, or updating your information in official databases.
Before You Go: Don’t Ignore This Number on Your License
That small code on your driver’s license may not look important at first, but it can stop you from submitting a job application, boarding an international flight, or even proving your identity online.
Take the time to check your license card. If the code is hard to find, use a flashlight or take a picture of the card and zoom in. Once you have it, keep it somewhere safe.
If you ever renew your driver’s license, the document number will be different. So make sure you write down the new one and keep it safe.
That small number may look unimportant, but it can stop you from getting things done — like job applications, travel, or filling online forms.
Also, if you’ve not printed your National ID card yet, don’t wait. Read our full guide on How to Get Your National ID Card Print Out Online. It’s easy and fast.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the meaning of document number on Nigerian driver’s license?
It’s the serial number printed on your driver’s license card that proves it was officially issued by FRSC.
How many digits is the document number?
It’s usually 10–12 characters long, made up of both letters and numbers.
Is NDL number the same as document number?
No. The NDL number is your license number. The document number is different and relates to the card itself.
Can I drive if I forgot my document number?
Yes, as long as you have your license card. But you may need the document number for verification or filling forms online.