The time it takes to receive a driver's license in the mail varies by state and situation, but generally it ranges from about 1 to 8 weeks after your application or test is processed.
- In California, it typically takes about 10-14 days from the date of issuance to receive your license in the mail, but delays of up to 1-2 months are common due to high demand and processing backlogs
. Some people report receiving it as quickly as 8 days, while others experience longer waits of several weeks
. Temporary licenses are provided instantly at the DMV and the permanent license follows by mail
- In New York, you should allow about 3 weeks to receive your license by mail after processing
- In Texas, the usual timeframe is 2 to 3 weeks from the date of your transaction for the license to be mailed
- In Indiana, the permanent driver's license is mailed within approximately 14 days after passing exams and completing verification
- In the UK, the DVLA advises allowing up to 4 weeks for new documents to arrive by post
- Generally, after passing a driving test, you receive a temporary paper license immediately, and the plastic card license arrives by mail within 2 to 8 weeks depending on the local DMV
If your license has not arrived within the expected timeframe, it is recommended to check the mailing status online if available, or contact your local DMV for assistance
. In summary, expect around 2 to 4 weeks on average, but it can take longer depending on the state and processing volume. Temporary paper licenses are usually given immediately to allow you to drive while waiting for the permanent card in the mail.