What an interim license is and when you need one
An interim driver license in New Jersey is a temporary document the Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) issues while your regular license process is being processed. It lets you drive legally during the waiting period — typically a few weeks — before your permanent license arrives in the mail.
You receive an interim license automatically when you pass your road test at an MVC testing center. The examiner prints it on the spot, and you can drive with it when ready. It's valid for a set number of days (usually 30 to 60, depending on your situation) and serves as proof that you've passed the test and are waiting for your permanent card.
If you're renewing an expired license or replacing a lost one, you may also receive an interim license while the MVC processes your request. The exact timing depends on which service you're using — in-person at a licensing center, by mail, or through an online renewal if you're may be able to access.
Key Takeaways
- The MVC prints your interim license at the testing center when ready after you pass your road test, and it's valid to drive the same day.
- An interim license is temporary and valid for 30 to 60 days while your permanent license is being mailed to you.
- You do not need to request an interim license separately — you receive it automatically as part of the licensing process.
- If you lose your interim license before your permanent one arrives, contact the MVC to request a replacement or expedited processing.
Getting an interim license after passing your road test
When you pass your road test at an MVC testing center, the examiner will hand you your interim license before you leave. This document has your photo, name, license number, and expiration date printed on it. You can drive legally with this interim license the moment you receive it — you do not have to wait for anything else.
The interim license is valid for the number of days printed on it. During this time, your permanent license is being produced and mailed to your address on file. Most permanent licenses arrive within two to four weeks, though processing times can vary depending on how busy the MVC is.
Keep your interim license in your wallet or vehicle at all times while driving. If you're stopped by police, this document proves you have passed your test and are legally permitted to drive. Treat it the same way you would treat a permanent license — it carries the same legal weight during its validity period.
What to do if you lose your interim license
If you lose your interim license before your permanent one arrives, contact the MVC as soon as possible. You have two options: request a replacement interim license, or ask about expedited processing of your permanent license.
To request a replacement, call the MVC Customer Service line at 609-292-6500 or visit an MVC licensing center in person. Bring your road test pass documentation or any paperwork you received from your test appointment. The MVC can issue a replacement interim license on the spot at a licensing center, or mail you one if you call.
If your permanent license is close to arriving anyway, you may choose to skip the replacement and straightforward wait. However, you cannot legally drive without a valid license document, so do not delay in getting either a replacement interim or confirmation that your permanent license is on its way.
Interim licenses for renewals and replacements
If you're renewing an expired license or replacing a lost or stolen one, the MVC may issue an interim license while processing your request. This happens most often when you renew in person at a licensing center — the staff can print an interim license when ready if your process is complete.
For mail-in renewals, you typically do not receive an interim license. Instead, the MVC mails your new permanent license directly to you. If your current license has already expired and you need to drive before the new one arrives, visit a licensing center in person to request an interim license while your renewal is being processed.
For online renewals (available to some drivers), an interim license is not issued. Your new license is mailed to you, and you should receive it within the timeframe stated on the MVC website when you complete your renewal.
How long an interim license is valid
The validity period of your interim license is printed on the document itself. For new drivers who just passed their road test, interim licenses are typically valid for 30 to 60 days. For renewals and replacements, the timeframe may differ depending on processing speed.
Do not assume your interim license is valid for a specific number of days — always check the expiration date printed on it. Driving with an expired interim license is the same as driving without a license, and you can be cited for it.
If your permanent license does not arrive before your interim license expires, contact the MVC when ready. Explain the situation and ask them to either extend your interim license or confirm the status of your permanent license. In most cases, the MVC can provide a solution to keep you legal while your permanent card is in transit.
What information is on your interim license
Your interim license contains the same core information as your permanent license: your full name, date of birth, address, license number, and photo. It also shows your license class (for example, Class D for regular passenger vehicles) and any restrictions or endorsements that explore to you.
The interim license is printed on a temporary card stock, not the plastic material of a permanent license. This is normal and expected. Police and other officials recognize interim licenses as valid driving documents, so do not worry about the different appearance.
Make sure all the information on your interim license is correct before you leave the MVC facility. If you spot an error — a wrong address, misspelled name, or incorrect date of birth — report it to the staff when ready so they can correct it before your permanent license is produced.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drive out of state with my interim New Jersey license?
Yes. Your interim license is a valid New Jersey driver license and is recognized in all other states. You can drive anywhere in the United States with it, just as you would with a permanent license. However, some rental car companies may not accept interim licenses, so call ahead if you plan to rent a vehicle.
What if my interim license expires and my permanent license still hasn't arrived?
Contact the MVC when ready at 609-292-6500. Explain that your interim license has expired and your permanent license has not arrived. The MVC can extend your interim license, issue a replacement, or provide a status update on your permanent license. Do not drive without a valid license document.
Do I need to bring anything else when I drive with my interim license?
Your interim license is your proof of licensure, so it's the only document you need to carry. You should also have your vehicle registration and proof of insurance in the car, as you would with any valid license. Police may ask for all three documents during a traffic stop.
Can I use my interim license for non-driving purposes like opening a bank account?
Most banks and government agencies accept interim licenses as valid ID, but policies vary. Call ahead to confirm before visiting. Some institutions may require a permanent license or additional ID. Your interim license is primarily intended for driving, so do not rely on it as your sole form of ID for official purposes.