An interim license is a temporary paper or plastic document the DMV issues while your permanent card is being made
When you pass your driving test or renew your license, the DMV does not hand you the finished card on the spot. Instead, they issue an interim license — a temporary document valid for a set number of days while the state prints and mails your permanent license. The interim serves as legal proof you can drive during that waiting period.
The form and validity period vary by state. Some states issue a paper document you carry in your wallet; others print it on cardstock or a temporary plastic card. Most interim licenses are valid for 30 to 90 days, though some states extend this to 180 days depending on the type of license or renewal. You must carry the interim with you whenever you drive — it has the same legal weight as a permanent license for that time window.
The interim is not optional and does not cost extra. It is part of the standard licensing process in every state. You receive it automatically when you complete your transaction at the DMV, whether you are a new driver, renewing, or upgrading your license class.
Key Takeaways
- An interim license is a temporary document issued on the spot at the DMV while your permanent card is printed and mailed.
- Interim licenses are valid for 30 to 180 days depending on your state and the type of license you received.
- You must carry your interim license with you when driving — it is your legal proof of licensure until the permanent card arrives.
- If your interim is lost, stolen, or damaged before your permanent license arrives, contact your state DMV to request a replacement or extension.
- The interim document is issued at no additional cost as part of your standard license transaction.
When the DMV issues an interim license
You receive an interim license at the moment you complete any transaction that results in a new or updated permanent license. This includes passing your driving test for the first time, renewing an expired license, changing your address, upgrading to a commercial driver license (CDL), or adding an endorsement such as a motorcycle or hazmat restriction.
The DMV hands you the interim before you leave the office. It is printed or generated on-site using the information you provided during your transaction. You do not have to request it or wait for it to be mailed — it is part of the standard process.
If you renew online or by mail in a state that allows it, you will not receive an interim at the office. Instead, the state will mail it to you along with instructions, or you may be told to continue using your current license until the new one arrives. Check your state's specific renewal rules, as this varies.
How long an interim license is valid
The validity period depends on your state and sometimes on the type of license. Most states set the interim validity at 30, 45, 60, or 90 days from the date of issue. A few states extend it to 120 or 180 days, particularly for commercial licenses or when the permanent card is expected to take longer to produce.
The expiration date is printed on the interim document itself. You are responsible for checking it and knowing when your permanent license should arrive. If your permanent license does not arrive before the interim expires, you must contact your state DMV to request an extension or replacement interim — you cannot legally drive on an expired interim.
During the interim period, you have full driving privileges. You can drive alone, carry passengers, and use the interim as proof of licensure for traffic stops, insurance purposes, or vehicle registration. It carries the same legal authority as a permanent license.
What happens if your interim is lost or damaged
If your interim license is lost, stolen, or damaged before your permanent license arrives, contact your state DMV when ready. Most states will issue a replacement interim at no cost, though some may charge a small fee. You will need to provide your name, date of birth, and the date you received the original interim.
Some states allow you to request a replacement interim by phone or online; others require you to visit an office in person. A few states will extend your interim validity period instead of issuing a replacement, giving you extra time to receive your permanent card. Ask your DMV which option applies to you.
Do not drive without a valid interim or permanent license. If you are stopped by law enforcement and cannot produce either, you may face a citation for driving without a license, even though you have completed the licensing process and are waiting for your card to arrive.
Interim licenses and out-of-state moves
If you move to another state after receiving an interim license but before your permanent license arrives, your interim remains valid in your home state only. You cannot use it to obtain a license in your new state. You must wait for your permanent license to arrive at your original address, then use it to explore for a license in your new state.
If your permanent license is mailed to an address you no longer use, contact your original state DMV to request a reissue to your new address. This may delay receipt by several weeks. Some states allow you to update your address online or by phone before the card ships; doing this early prevents the need for a reissue.
If you are moving and expect to be without a valid license for a period, plan ahead. Some states will issue a temporary license extension or a paper extension document if you explain the situation. Contact the DMV in your original state before you move to ask what options are available.
Interim licenses for commercial and special endorsements
If you are obtaining a commercial driver license (CDL) or adding endorsements such as a motorcycle (M), hazmat (H), or passenger (P) restriction, you will receive an interim for that endorsement as well. The interim shows the same restrictions and endorsements as your permanent license will.
For CDL holders, the interim validity period is often longer — sometimes 90 to 120 days — because the background checks and medical certification required for commercial licenses take more time. You can drive commercially during the interim period using the same authority as you would with the permanent card.
If you are upgrading from a regular license to a CDL, your interim will reflect the CDL class and any endorsements you passed the test for. Your old permanent license becomes invalid once you receive the interim, so do not carry both.
What to do when your permanent license arrives
When your permanent license arrives in the mail, stop carrying your interim when ready. The interim is no longer valid once you have the permanent card in hand. Keep the interim for your records if you wish, but do not attempt to use it for any purpose.
Check the permanent license for accuracy before you use it. Verify your name, date of birth, address, license number, and any endorsements or restrictions match what you applied for. If there is an error, contact your state DMV to request a correction. Do not drive with an incorrect license.
If your permanent license does not arrive within the validity period of your interim, or if it arrives damaged or with errors, contact your state DMV before the interim expires. Request a replacement interim, an extension, or a reissue of the permanent card. Do not let your interim expire while waiting for the permanent — you will be driving without a valid license.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use my interim license to register a vehicle or get car insurance?
Yes. Your interim license is a valid form of identification and proof of licensure for both vehicle registration and insurance purposes. Insurance companies and DMV offices will accept it. Make sure the expiration date has not passed when you present it.
What if I get pulled over while driving on my interim?
Present your interim license to the officer just as you would a permanent license. It is a valid legal document. The officer may note that it is temporary, but that does not affect your rights or obligations during the stop. Always carry it with you when driving.
Can I renew my license before my permanent card arrives?
No. You cannot renew a license that is still in the interim stage. You must wait for your permanent license to arrive before you can renew it. If your permanent license arrives close to its expiration date, you can renew when ready after receiving it.
Do I need to do anything special if my interim expires before my permanent arrives?
Contact your state DMV right away. Request an extension of your interim or a replacement interim document. Explain that your permanent license has not arrived. Do not drive without a valid interim or permanent license, even if you are waiting for the card.
Is there a fee for an interim license?
No. The interim license is issued at no additional cost as part of your standard license transaction. If you lose your interim and need a replacement, most states issue it free, though a few charge a small fee. Check your state DMV website for its specific policy.