If you’ve ever paused before writing drivers license or driver’s license, you’re not alone. Even seasoned writers get tripped up by this tiny apostrophe.
At first glance, it seems trivial, but using the wrong form can make your writing look careless.
In this guide, you’ll learn why the apostrophe matters, the difference between singular and plural possessives, regional spelling variations, and practical tips for correct usage.
By the end, you’ll confidently know when to write driver’s license, how to avoid common mistakes, and why some places drop the apostrophe entirely.
Understanding the Possessive Case in ‘Driver’s License’
The key to mastering driver’s license starts with understanding possession in English grammar.
When you write driver’s license, the apostrophe + “s” shows that the license belongs to the driver. Think of it as shorthand for the license of the driver.
Examples:
- Correct: “Please show your driver’s license at the counter.”
- Incorrect: “Please show your drivers license at the counter.”
Notice how the apostrophe signals ownership. Without it, the sentence may still be understood, but it becomes grammatically incorrect.
Singular vs Plural Possessives:
| Form | Meaning | Example |
|---|---|---|
| driver’s license | License of one driver | “I need my driver’s license to rent a car.” |
| drivers’ license | License belonging to multiple drivers | “The DMV issues new drivers’ licenses each year.” |
Common Misconceptions and Variations in Spelling
You’ve probably seen drivers license written without the apostrophe, especially on forms or signs. This isn’t random—it’s a widespread trend influenced by casual writing, digital media, and even government forms.
- Fact: Many US DMV websites and signage drop the apostrophe for simplicity.
- Why it persists: People mimic what they see in official documents, thinking it’s correct.
- Truth: In formal writing, publications, and professional communication, driver’s license remains the grammatically correct form.
The Reason Behind the Apostrophe in ‘Driver’s License’
The apostrophe exists for a reason: to indicate ownership.
Think of similar phrases:
- Teacher’s desk → desk of the teacher
- Pilot’s uniform → uniform of the pilot
The same principle applies to driver’s license. Removing the apostrophe might still convey meaning, but it’s no longer grammatically precise.
Quick Tip: If you ever ask yourself, “Does the license belong to someone?”—then you likely need an apostrophe.
Acceptable Variations in Legal and Informal Contexts
Interestingly, dropping the apostrophe isn’t always wrong in informal or legal contexts:
- DMV forms: Many states in the US print “drivers license” without the apostrophe.
- Insurance documents: Casual shorthand often appears for brevity.
- Signs and banners: Space-saving or stylistic choices sometimes drop punctuation.
Important: While these variations appear publicly, academic, professional, and journalistic writing should always use the apostrophe to maintain correctness.
The Grammar of Ownership: Singular vs. Plural Possessives
Possession changes depending on whether you’re referring to one driver or multiple drivers.
- Singular possessive: driver’s license → one driver
- Plural possessive: drivers’ license → multiple drivers
Example Sentences:
- Singular: “John applied for a driver’s license last week.”
- Plural: “The DMV processed hundreds of drivers’ licenses today.”
This distinction is subtle but important, especially in formal documents or reports.
‘Drivers License’ or ‘Driver’s License’: A Historical Perspective
The phrase driver’s license has evolved over time:
- Early US usage: Newspapers and official forms initially preferred “driver’s license” with the apostrophe.
- 20th century trend: Shortened forms like “drivers license” gained traction in signage and forms for efficiency.
- Modern impact: Even some style guides now acknowledge the apostrophe-less version in informal contexts, though traditional grammar still favors it.
Lesson: While history explains why you see both forms, grammar dictates that driver’s license is the safe, correct choice.
Regional Differences in the Term ‘Driver’s License’
Spelling and terminology vary across English-speaking countries.
| Region | Correct Term | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| USA | Driver’s License | Singular apostrophe standard in formal writing |
| UK | Driving Licence | “Licence” is the noun; “License” is the verb |
| Canada | Driver’s Licence | Often follows British spelling in legal documents |
| Australia | Driver’s Licence | Legal usage aligns with British English |
Observation: If you write for an international audience, adjusting for regional norms is key.
The Impact of Legislation on the Spelling of ‘Driver’s License’
Legal documents and state legislation influence which form appears:
- US DMV documents mostly say drivers license, dropping the apostrophe.
- State laws may codify this spelling, even if it violates traditional grammar.
- Canadian and Australian legal systems retain licence for nouns, following British English.
Example:
- California DMV: “Applicants must provide a valid drivers license.”
- UK DVLA: “You must present a valid driving licence to the examiner.”
Even though law influences spelling, formal writing outside legal texts should follow grammar rules.
Choosing the Right Term: Practical Advice for American English Usage
Here’s how to navigate the confusion:
- Always use “driver’s license” in writing for reports, emails, essays, or journalism.
- Use “drivers license” only if quoting DMV forms, casual signage, or informal texts.
- Plural context: Use drivers’ licenses when referring to multiple drivers.
- British or Canadian audience: Switch to driving licence or driver’s licence to match conventions.
Tip: If you’re unsure, default to driver’s license—it’s universally understood and grammatically correct.
Examples in Context
Singular vs Plural:
- Singular: “She renewed her driver’s license online.”
- Plural: “The DMV issued 1,000 new drivers’ licenses this month.”
Formal Writing:
- “Applicants must present a valid driver’s license along with proof of residence.”
Informal Writing:
- “Make sure to bring your drivers license when you pick up the rental car.”
International Usage:
- UK: “Please provide your driving licence at the border.”
- Canada: “He forgot his driver’s licence, so he couldn’t rent the car.”
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
- Dropping the apostrophe in formal writing → use driver’s license.
- Using plural possessive incorrectly → remember “driver’s license” for one driver, “drivers’ licenses” for multiple.
- Confusing US and UK spelling → adapt based on audience: “license” vs “licence.”
- Relying on signage or forms as rules → legal shorthand isn’t always grammatically correct.
Memory trick: Think “the license of the driver”—the apostrophe shows ownership.
FAQs
What is the correct spelling in American English?
Answer: “Driver’s license” with an apostrophe is correct for singular possession.
Can I write “drivers license” without an apostrophe?
Answer: It’s seen in DMV forms or informal usage, but it’s not grammatically correct.
How do I indicate multiple drivers?
Answer: Use the plural possessive: “drivers’ licenses” for licenses of multiple drivers.
What about British English?
Answer: Use “driving licence” for the noun; “license” is used for verbs.
Does legislation affect spelling?
Answer: Yes, some US DMV documents drop the apostrophe, but formal writing should retain it.
Conclusion
Getting driver’s license right isn’t just about grammar—it’s about clarity, professionalism, and respect for language rules. Remember:
- Driver’s license → standard, correct, singular.
- Drivers’ licenses → multiple drivers.
- Drivers license → informal, often seen on signs or DMV forms.
When in doubt, default to driver’s license. It works in most contexts and avoids unnecessary errors. Proper punctuation shows attention to detail and credibility—something every writer should value.
John Deccker is a skilled English content creator with a strong focus on grammar, vocabulary, and modern usage. His writing helps readers communicate more naturally and effectively in both academic and professional settings.