Question: I recently passed my driving test and got my license, but they gave me a paper ID at the DMV. How long does it take to receive my plastic driving license card?
Answer: Congratulations on passing your driving test and obtaining your license! The hard part is over. Your paper driver’s license operates as a plastic license, but it can be more inconvenient to carry around. Thankfully, you should have your plastic driver’s license in two months or less, depending on your local DMV.
Generally, you will get your plastic driver’s license in two to eight weeks by mail after passing the driving test. The timelines are similar if you are renewing your license.
When you get your temporary license, it’ll be good to ask what the expected timelines for receiving the license would be and what to do if you do not get it within those timelines. For example, the government of Oregon states that you should allow up to 20 days to get an ID card but if you have not received it after 20 days you can check your card status on the DMV’s website.
In some cases, filling out your application online versus through mail can expedite your process. For example, in California the processing time for a driver’s license is only 2 weeks online but if you mailed it it’ll take four weeks.
However, this timeframe can vary. Some DMVs may process and mail out the license faster, while others might take longer due to high demand or administrative backlogs. If you want a more specific estimate, it’s best to check the website of your local DMV or contact them directly for the most accurate information.
How long does a permit take to come in the mail?
Most driving permits are given to the new driver the same day in the DMV office, as long as the driver meets the minimum age requirements and passes the written and vision test. It might mean a long DMV day for you, but you should be able to walk out with a paper permit that allows you to drive supervised and within your local area’s driving curfew.
This permit is designed to be replaced with real license six months later, once you pass the road driving test.
What should I do if my temporary license is expiring?
In the meantime, your paper ID serves as a temporary valid license, and you should carry it with you whenever you are driving. The validity of the paper ID usually lasts quite a while but if you haven’t received your plastic license close to its expiration date you should call your DMV to check the status of your driver’s license.
While the interim driver’s license is accepted as a form of proof that you are a qualified driver, not all government agencies and businesses will allow you to use it as proof of identification.
Xuyun Zeng is a content strategist with a wide-ranging content background including tech, journalism, cars and health care. After graduating with highest honors in journalism, Xuyun led a newspaper to win eight awards, helped start an award-winning film industry podcast and has written over a hundred articles about cars repair, state laws and insurance. Prior to joining Jerry, Xuyun worked as a freelance SEO consultant with a mission to create the best content that will help readers and grow organic traffic.
Ashley Eneriz is an editor and finance writer with over 15 years of experience in a wide range of financial topics, including car loans and insurance. In editing for Jerry, Ashley aims to make all car material reader-friendly for both the new driver and car enthusiast alike. Prior to joining Jerry, Ashley was the financial deputy editor for ConsumerAffairs. Her work is featured on Forbes, Yahoo, MSN, The Hartford and more.
