Can I Put “Lord” on My Driver’s License? A Unique Request Raises Questions About Personal Titles and Identification
In a world where people are constantly seeking ways to express their individuality and uniqueness, one man’s request to have the title “Lord” on his driver’s license has sparked a debate about the boundaries of personal expression and official identification.
James Smith, a 35-year-old software engineer from Portland, Oregon, recently submitted a request to have his driver’s license reissued with the title “Lord” in front of his name. Smith, who has a deep interest in medieval history and enjoys participating in Renaissance fairs, explained that he wanted to have the title as a nod to his passion for history and to set himself apart from the ordinary.
“I’ve always been fascinated by medieval times and the idea of noble titles,” Smith said in an interview. “I thought it would be a fun and unique way to express my interests and personality.”
However, Smith’s request was initially met with confusion and skepticism by the state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). Officials pointed out that the title “Lord” is not recognized as a formal or legal title in the United States and raised concerns about the legitimacy and appropriateness of such a request.
“We have certain guidelines and regulations in place for issuing driver’s licenses, and the use of titles like ‘Lord’ is not something that we typically come across,” said Karen Johnson, a spokesperson for the Oregon DMV. “We have to ensure that the information on the license accurately reflects the individual’s identity, and introducing non-standard titles can complicate that process.”
Despite the initial pushback, Smith was determined to see his request through. He enlisted the help of his attorney to argue his case and emphasize that the title “Lord” held personal significance for him and did not pose any legal or security risks.
“It’s not about wanting special treatment or privileges. I simply want to have a little fun and showcase my interests in a harmless way,” Smith explained.
After a series of deliberations and consultations, the Oregon DMV eventually granted Smith’s request to have “Lord” included on his driver’s license, albeit with a disclaimer stating that it was a self-proclaimed title and not recognized by the state.
The decision raised questions about the boundaries of personal expression and the flexibility of official identification documents. While some supported Smith’s right to choose how he presents himself, others raised concerns about the potential for misuse or confusion that could arise from non-standard titles on identification documents.
“It’s important for driver’s licenses and other official documents to accurately reflect an individual’s legal identity,” said Mary Stevens, a legal expert specializing in identification and personal records. “While it’s understandable that people want to express their uniqueness, we have to strike a balance between personal expression and the need for clear and standardized identification.”
Smith’s case also sparked a broader conversation about the nature of titles and honorifics in modern society. Traditionally, titles like “Lord” have been associated with nobility, aristocracy, or religious positions, and their use has been strictly regulated and formalized in many cultures.
In recent years, however, there has been a growing trend of individuals adopting unconventional or self-proclaimed titles as a form of self-expression and empowerment. From “Princess” to “Duke” to “Captain,” people are seeking creative ways to differentiate themselves and assert their identities.
“It’s a reflection of our changing attitudes towards tradition and hierarchy,” said Dr. Sarah Johnson, a cultural historian. “Titles used to be rigidly defined and inherited, but now we’re seeing a more fluid and playful approach to titles, where people are free to choose how they want to be addressed.”
While the inclusion of “Lord” on a driver’s license may seem like a harmless and lighthearted gesture, it raises important questions about the intersection of personal identity, official recognition, and societal norms. As individuals continue to push the boundaries of self-expression and individuality, it remains to be seen how institutions and regulations will adapt to accommodate these evolving attitudes.
For James Smith, having “Lord” on his driver’s license is a small but meaningful way to embrace his passion for history and stand out from the crowd. “It’s just a fun way to show a little piece of who I am,” he said. “And if it brings a smile to someone’s face or sparks a conversation, then that’s a bonus.”
