The state driver's license office in Erwin will become the second in the state to start issuing temporary driving certificates instead of actual licenses.

The change goes into effect today at the state Division of Motor Vehicles' Harnett County office at 125 W. Jackson Blvd. in Erwin.

DMV officials are phasing in a system of mailing licenses to people who qualify rather than issuing them immediately at driver's license offices. The temporary certificates allow people to drive legally while they wait for their new licenses to arrive in the mail.

The system started July 1 at the DMV office in Lillington. The DMV plans to expand the program to driver's license offices across the state by the end of the year.

Drivers getting new licenses or renewing old ones still must go to their local DMV offices to take the required tests and have photos made. Drivers who pass the tests will receive the temporary certificates, which are valid for 20 days. Most people can expect their licenses within five to seven days, the DMV says.

A temporary certificate is on a half-sheet of paper and contains the same information as a driver's license. It is not for valid for identification, because it does not have a driver's photo. Drivers can use their current licenses for identification while they wait for new licenses.

The legislature required the new system to help guard against identify fraud and identity theft.

Get $150+ in coupons in every Sunday N&O. Click here for convenient home delivery.