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DMV Extending Temporary Licenses Due To Delays

SAN FRANCISCO (CBS 5/KCBS) -- Months after California switched to new driver's licenses, the Department of Motor Vehicles is still backlogged trying to issue the ID's. CBS 5 has learned the DMV is changing the way its dealing with the delays.

It used to take a few weeks to receive a new driver's license from the DMV. Now getting a new license can take as long as three months due to problems with new security features incorporated to prevent counterfeit licenses.

According to the DMV, around 250,000 Californians have not received their driver's license on time since October. As a result, the DMV announced in a statement it would extend the paper temporary license drivers receive from 60 days to 90 days.

KCBS' Mark Seelig Reports:

According to the DMV Director George Valverde, the delays in the processing will not impact the legality of a person's driving status. The DMV said temporary driver's licenses are recognized by law enforcement agencies, federal agencies and car rental companies. They should also be acknowledged by businesses as legal and binding documents.

Drivers who have waited more then 6 weeks to get their new license, or have a temporary ID close to expiration, should contact DMV at LODDLIDSP@dmv.ca.gov.

(© 2011 CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.)

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