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Ideas/Section-8
The respect given to
a drivers license as positive identification is quite surprising,
even though to a large extend, it is not warranted. As an evidence
of identity, a driver's license is as solid as water balloon. Yet,
everyone continues to use and accept it as proof of positive identification.
The drivers license is almost universally demanded when cashing
checks, which is why check artists always have a drivers license
ready at all times. If you walk to a liquor store with a passport
to purchase with a check, chances are you will be turned down in
favor of the drivers license, even though passports contain more
thorough information and are more expensive and harder to obtain
than a drivers license.
It is with good reason why drivers licenses carry so much weight
as proof of positive identification. In most states a drivers license
is the only thing a person carries in the way of identification
that has his photograph on it. In fact with some states, DLs also
use thumb print, although the average store clerk cannot really
verify that it is that of the user.
Although a thumb print is a far better method of establishing an
identity than a photograph, for the shopkeeper who doesn't have
the expertise to compare prints, the photograph is the best basis
for accepting check payments. In fact, the drivers license is such
a popular piece of ID that many states issue licenses even to people
who do not drive. While it really isn't a "license" at
all, since it doesn't permit the holder to do anything, it is useful
and readily accepted as a form of personal identification.
Getting a drivers license late in life is quite common, it is not
unusual for someone to walk into a DMV office and get a license
for the first time. This is why a DL is something people get when
they want to change the identity.
When asked why someone is getting a DL so late in life, a person
changing identity can come up with a number of excuses. Many people
don't have the money to buy a car until they've saved enough over
the years. Another very rational explanation is that you've been
living in a city with excellent mass transit and you did not have
to drive.
When applying for your DL, bring your birth certificate or passport.
Along with your other identifications, you will want to bring a
couple letters addressed to you as proof of your residence. It should
be easy enough to arrange for them to show your mail drop address
rather than your actual residence.
