Why would a potential employer copy my drivers license when I submitted an application? Is this legal?
Asked by Virginia V
I applied for a job yesterday and after finishing the application, they asked to take a photo copy of my drivers license. Since the job I am applying for has nothing to do with driving, I was curious if this is a legal hiring practice. As far as I can tell this piece of information gives my race, creed, color, and date of birth all not to be considered when hiring someone.

Best Answer:
Yes, it's legal and it is not to discriminate. The information is for the employer's protection. Not everyone is honest and some have criminal records that are a threat to employers.

It's a 'proof of ID' to show you are who you say you are. It also gives your employer your Driver's Lic. ID#. They can do a back-ground investigation on you. Criminal Check. We do this all the time where I work. If you have nothing to hide - this shouldn't be any problem.
Answered by mcdane01

It's legal, they probably do that to confirm that you are who you say you are. They also probably run a background check on you based on that info. You don't have to give them a copy of your license, but they don't have to hire you either.
Answered by npemtiv

It is a case of identity rather than discrimination. Employers are required to verify the identity of their employees. This is to prevent fraud such as using a fake social security number to avoid having your income reported to the IRS.
Answered by VaTreasures

We always needed to copy licenses for all our employees. You had to have it for insurance polices and things like that.
Answered by imNangel270

Actually a lot of people do it for a lot of reasons. You shouldn't allow just anyone to do it, but it's perfectly understandable. Imagine you put your business in the hands of total strangers.
Answered by Badger

Yes sweety it is legal they should also photo copy your social security number as well...all it is is to prove to the federal goverment that u work there and that they are allowed to take taxes out on u and that u are legal to work there ( meaning a US Citazin)
Answered by Mercedes A

Your driver's license is a vital piece of document for an employer. Driver's license is similar to your birth certificate or passport. They can prove that you are not using an alias identity. They cannot be easily imitated since most uses security plastic or paper. Your employer would like to keep your true identity. I don't find it illegal since all they were asking is a photocopy and not the your original driver's license.
Answered by aeg22