When buying JR pass

When buying JR pass, is it normal for the vendor to ask for your passport number? Do they print it on to the exchange voucher? Was just wondering as I obviously don't want to give out my passport number to just anyone if it's not required. Thanks.

i don't recall ever being asked for my passport number when purchasing a JR Pass Voucher and i've bought 6 over the past 10 years.
Certainly though whenever i've checked into a hotel or cashed a travellers cheque in japan they've always wanted my passport number.

When I used to get my voucher from HIS or JAL they would ask to see my passport and make a photocopy that was held on file, but the current vendor that I use does not ask for the passport. It might be something to do with the fact that the companies that asked for the passport are Japanese registered, the company I now purchase from is UK registered. Who was the vendor that asked for your passport?

It was Rail choice (http://www.railchoice.co.uk/index.php). They are on the official list of JR pass vendors on the Japan rail site (http://www.japanrail.com) so I think they're ok but thought I would check. It seems from the responses that some vendors ask for a passport number/photocopy and some don't. Like RobBeer says, maybe it is something to do with which country they're registered in...

Well, Railchoice is an English company, so that makes my theory redundant.

Iwas asked for mine when buying the passes via JTD (official outlet) and again when exchanging he docket for the pass in Japan.

It's standard practice - there is a box on the form that requires it.

If you haven't been asked for it, that is a little slackness or oversight by the person taking the details.

HIS asked for our passport numbersin Australia. it is less of an issue with passports being microchipped as the raw information isnt much good for evil deeds.

Most hotels in Japan ask for passport and keep a photocopy on file.

You do not need your passport details when purchasing the JR rail pass - or specifically, the exchange order. Your passport is necessary when exchanging the order (at almost any JR station )for the pass, with the immigration stamps certifying you're a temporary visitor.