How to Sign "License"

To sign license, form both hands into 'L' shapes with your index fingers pointing straight up and your thumbs pointing toward each other. Hold your hands in front of your chest with your palms facing forward, bringing them together so the tips of your thumbs touch. Finally, pull your hands slightly apart horizontally to outline the rectangular shape of a small card.

Examples Using "License" in a Sentence

1

I just got my driver's license!

To sign this, you would first sign 'DRIVE' by mimicking holding a steering wheel, followed by the sign for 'LICENSE'. Finish with 'I RECENTLY GET' while showing an excited facial expression.

2

Can I see your license?

Point to the person to sign 'YOUR', then sign 'LICENSE'. Finish by signing 'SEE' moving from your eyes toward them, raising your eyebrows to indicate a yes/no question.

3

I need to renew my license.

Start by pointing to yourself for 'I', sign 'NEED', and then sign 'LICENSE'. You can follow this up with the sign for 'AGAIN' or 'RENEW' to complete the thought.

How to Sign "License"
To sign license, form both hands into 'L' shapes with your index fingers pointing straight up and your thumbs pointing toward each other. Hold your hands in front of your chest with your palms facing forward, bringing them together so the tips of your thumbs touch. Finally, pull your hands slightly apart horizontally to outline the rectangular shape of a small card.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
The sign for license is highly iconic and visually motivated by the shape of the object it represents. By using the 'L' handshapes and pulling them apart, you are literally drawing the top and sides of a rectangular identification card in the air.
Signing Tips
Focus on keeping your palms facing forward and your index fingers pointing straight up to create a clear frame. When you pull your hands apart, keep the movement small and controlled. The distance your hands travel should roughly match the actual width of a standard ID card to keep the meaning accurate.
Common Mistakes
Beginners often make the horizontal movement too wide, which changes the meaning from a small card to a large board or poster. Another frequent mistake is turning the palms to face inward instead of forward, which breaks the visual 'frame' that the 'L' handshapes are meant to create.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "License" in a Sentence
1

I just got my driver's license!

To sign this, you would first sign 'DRIVE' by mimicking holding a steering wheel, followed by the sign for 'LICENSE'. Finish with 'I RECENTLY GET' while showing an excited facial expression.

2

Can I see your license?

Point to the person to sign 'YOUR', then sign 'LICENSE'. Finish by signing 'SEE' moving from your eyes toward them, raising your eyebrows to indicate a yes/no question.

3

I need to renew my license.

Start by pointing to yourself for 'I', sign 'NEED', and then sign 'LICENSE'. You can follow this up with the sign for 'AGAIN' or 'RENEW' to complete the thought.

Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use this sign for an ID card or credit card?

Yes! This sign is very versatile and is commonly used to represent any small, rectangular card. You can use it for an ID card, a debit card, or a driver's license. Just add context words if you need to be specific.

Do my thumbs have to touch at the beginning?

Yes, starting with your thumbs touching or very close together is important. It establishes the starting edge of the card before you pull your hands apart to show its full width.

Is this the same sign as 'picture'?

They are similar because both involve a framing concept, but 'picture' typically involves moving a 'C' handshape from near your face down to your non-dominant palm. 'License' strictly uses the 'L' handshapes pulling apart in the air.

ASL is a beautiful, expressive language. Practice regularly and have fun!