The loss of a loved one comes with numerous responsibilities, one of which is notifying appropriate entities. If your loved one resided in Washington State and held a driver's license or state ID, you would need to reach out to the Washington State Department of Licensing. This guide will help you understand how to go about this process.
Who Should Be Notified
The Washington State Department of Licensing (DOL) should be notified if the deceased held a driver's license or state ID. Notifying the DOL helps prevent potential identity theft, and it's a step towards closing the deceased's records.
When to Notify
It's advisable to notify the Washington State DOL as soon as you can after the death. Timely notification prevents any misuse of the deceased's identification and ensures accurate record management.
How to Notify
To notify the Washington State DOL, you can fill out a 'Change of Address' form online. In the 'Street Address' section, write 'Deceased', followed by the date of death. For the 'City' field, enter the city of death, and for the 'State' field, enter 'ZZ'. For the 'ZIP code', enter '99999'.
Another method is to mail a letter to the DOL, including the deceased's full name, date of birth, driver's license or ID number (if known), and a copy of the death certificate. Mail the documents to: Driver Records, Department of Licensing, PO Box 9048, Olympia, WA 98507.
What to Expect After Notification
After notification, the DOL will update the deceased's record, preventing the misuse of their identification documents. The deceased's driver's license or ID will be cancelled.
Tips for Notification
When sending the death certificate and letter to the DOL, consider using a method that provides delivery confirmation. This ensures the documents have been received. It's also advisable to keep copies of all correspondence for your records.
Conclusion
In the challenging time following a loved one's death, notifying the Washington State DOL is an essential step. This helps prevent identity theft and ensures the proper handling of the deceased's driving record. Understanding this process can help you fulfil these responsibilities efficiently.
FAQ
Q: Can I notify the Washington State DOL in person?
A: While you can visit a DOL office for other matters, notification of a death is typically done online or by mail.
Q: What if I don't have the deceased's driver's license or ID number?
A: If you don't have the driver's license or ID number, the DOL can usually locate the deceased's record using their full name and date of birth.
Q: Do I need to return the deceased's driver's license or ID card?
A: No, you don't need to return the deceased's driver's license or ID card. However, it should be destroyed to prevent misuse.
