License rule aims to limit identity theft

Social Security numbers no longer will be included on Ohio driver’s licenses so that the state can comply with federal law, the Bureau of Motor Vehicles has announced.

The law, which took effect in December, prohibits states from including Social Security numbers on new and renewal driver’s licenses, identification cards and car registrations. The goal is to thwart identity thieves, who view the numbers as a bonanza.

The BMV reviewed the federal law and has changed its policies to conform, said bureau spokesman Fred Stratmann. The BMV is asking the General Assembly to pass legislation to back up the policy change.  [Read more]