Losing your stuff is such a pain. When it’s your important identification, it’s worse. If you are wondering what to do if you lose your license, you’ll be glad to know these steps.
A lot of damage can happen in a very short time, so it’s important to take the necessary actions. Here are a few things you need to do.
What to Do If You Lose Your License
Other than the fact it’s annoying to have to replace, it can also have devastating results if it was stolen or found by someone with malice intent. The most important thing you can do is act fast.
1. Look For It
Before you go into a full-fledged panic, take a look around. Check your bag, your pockets, the laundry and the floor and seats of your car. Retrace your steps and make some calls to see if it was turned in at a store, or check with family and friends.
2. Report it to DMV
Call the DMV right away. if you find it later, you can always call them back. It’s import for a few reasons. You will need to apply for a new one, and get a temporary one. If it was stolen, they might flag it.
3. Report it to Police
It’s smart to report it to the police. Someone may have found it and turned it in. More importantly, someone may get into an accident or commit other crimes with your ID on them.
There is also the fear of Identity Theft. The police will be able to see if it’s been used. If you don’t report it, you can be held responsible for fines committed on it. If that happens, you will need a speeding ticket lawyer.
4. Get Your New or Temporary License
Get your new or temporary license right away. You do not want to be caught driving without it. You also do not want to drive yourself there to get it. Call a friend, a cab or take public transit.
Getting into an accident without your license can cost you a lot of money and may affect your insurance.
5. Watch for Suspicious Activity
You might want to let your bank know, as well. Once a thief has your identification, they can open accounts, apply for loans and rack up a lot of damage in a short period of time.
Keep an eye out for unusual activity on social media, as well. It’s a starting point for identity theft. Make sure your friends and family know, so they understand any strange posts that seem to come from you.
May I See Your License?
If you are not driving, just leave it at home. It’s important to have some kind of identification on you, but an ID card from anywhere will do. At least now you know what to do if you lose your license.
If you are traveling, you should still report back to your home state. A foreign identity card could fall into the wrong hands very quickly. Here are some travel tips for you, while you wait.
