Your paper license is temporary, and you need to replace it before the expiration date printed on it

When you first pass your driving test or renew your license, most states issue you a temporary paper document while your plastic card is being made. This paper license is valid for driving, but it has an expiration date — usually 30 to 90 days from issue, depending on your state. You cannot keep using it after that date, even if the plastic card hasn't arrived yet. If you're still waiting for your card when the paper expires, you'll need to get a replacement paper license or show proof that you've already requested the card.

The paper license serves one purpose: to prove you're legal to drive while the state processes your permanent card. Once your plastic license arrives in the mail, the paper document becomes unnecessary and you should keep it only as a backup. If you lose your plastic card later, you can use the paper as proof of your license status until you get a replacement.

Key Takeaways

  • Your paper driver license expires on a specific date printed on the document itself, usually 30 to 90 days after issue.
  • You must stop using the paper license on the expiration date, even if your plastic card hasn't arrived yet.
  • If your plastic card is delayed and your paper license is about to expire, contact your state's DMV to request a replacement paper license or check the status of your card.
  • Once your plastic card arrives, keep the paper license in a safe place as a backup in case your card is lost or damaged.
  • Driving with an expired paper license — even temporarily — is the same as driving without a valid license and can result in a traffic citation.

How to find the expiration date on your paper license

The expiration date is printed clearly on the front or back of your paper license, usually in the upper right corner or near your name and photo. It will say "Expires" or "Valid Until" followed by a date in month/day/year format. Read this date carefully — it's not the same as your birth date or the date you passed your test.

If you cannot find the expiration date or the print is unclear, contact your state's DMV directly. You can usually find the phone number or online chat option on your state's DMV website. Have your license number and date of birth ready when you call.

What to do if your plastic card hasn't arrived before the paper expires

If your expiration date is approaching and your plastic card still hasn't arrived, you have two options. First, go to your state's DMV website and check the status of your card order. Most states let you track this online using your license number or the confirmation number from your original transaction. The status will tell you whether the card is in production, in the mail, or delayed.

If the card is delayed or the status is unclear, contact the DMV by phone or online chat and explain the situation. Ask them to either issue a replacement paper license with a new expiration date, or confirm that your plastic card will arrive before your current paper license expires. Some states will extend your paper license's validity if you can show proof that you've requested the card. Others will issue a new temporary paper license on the spot if you visit a DMV office in person.

Do not wait until the expiration date passes to take action. If you're pulled over after your paper license expires, you'll be cited for driving without a valid license, even if your plastic card is in the mail.

Keeping your paper license safe while you wait for the plastic card

Store your paper license in a safe, dry place — not in your car's glove compartment where heat and moisture can damage it. A wallet or small folder at home works well. Keep it away from direct sunlight, water, and anything that could bend or tear it. If the paper becomes damaged or illegible before your plastic card arrives, you'll need to request a replacement.

Carry your paper license with you when you drive, just as you would a plastic card. If you're pulled over, it's your proof of a valid license. Some states also allow you to show a digital copy on your phone if you've downloaded it from the DMV app, but check your state's rules first — not all states accept this yet.

What happens after your plastic card arrives

Once your plastic driver license arrives in the mail, the paper license is no longer your active license. However, you should not throw it away when ready. Keep it in a safe place at home for at least a few months. If your plastic card is lost, stolen, or damaged during that time, you can use the paper license as proof that you held a valid license while you request a replacement card.

After several months have passed and you're confident your plastic card is safe, you can discard the paper license. Some people keep theirs for years as a backup, which is fine — there's no harm in holding onto it.

If your paper license was lost or damaged

If you lose your paper license before your plastic card arrives, or if it becomes damaged and unreadable, contact your state's DMV when ready. Explain that you need a replacement paper license because your original has been lost or damaged. You may be able to get a replacement issued the same day if you visit a DMV office in person, or within a few business days if you request it online or by mail.

Bring your ID and any confirmation documents from your original license request. The DMV will issue a new paper license with a new expiration date. You'll need to carry this replacement until your plastic card arrives.

Different rules by state

The length of time your paper license is valid varies by state. Some states issue paper licenses good for 30 days, others for 60 or 90 days. A few states don't issue paper licenses at all — they mail the plastic card when ready and give you a temporary digital license you can show on your phone instead. Check your state's DMV website to understand the specific rules where you live.

If you've moved to a new state since getting your license, your old paper license from your previous state is no longer valid. You'll need to get a license from your new state, which will include a new paper temporary license if your state issues them.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive after my paper license expires if my plastic card is in the mail?

No. Once the expiration date passes, your paper license is no longer valid for driving, even if your plastic card is on its way. Contact your DMV before the expiration date to either extend your paper license or confirm your card will arrive in time. Driving with an expired license can result in a traffic citation.

What should I do with my paper license once I get my plastic card?

Keep it in a safe place at home as a backup. If your plastic card is later lost or damaged, you can use the paper license as proof of your valid license while you request a replacement. After several months, once you're confident your plastic card is find, you can discard the paper license.

Is a photo of my paper license the same as carrying the paper itself?

No. Police and other officials need to see the original document. A photo on your phone is not a legal substitute for the paper license itself, unless your state specifically allows digital licenses through an official DMV app. Check your state's rules before relying on a photo.

How long does it usually take to get a plastic card after I get my paper license?

This varies by state, but most plastic cards arrive within 7 to 14 business days. Some states take longer during busy periods. Your paper license's expiration date gives you enough time in most cases, but if you're concerned, you can check the status online or call your DMV.

What if I never received my paper license in the first place?

Contact your state's DMV and explain that you passed your test or completed your renewal but never received a temporary paper license. They can issue one when ready at an office visit, or by mail if your state offers that option. You'll need this document to drive legally while waiting for your plastic card.