TexasCHLforum.com

I received my license in the mail today, got the full five years, doesnt expire until 2011......

Status changed when I checked website last night to, "license active". I expect I will see it in the mail next week, in plenty of time for October expiration date.
Total time would appear to be 49 days.

As of yesterday, my status is changed to "processing application".
Now I guess the waiting can start officially.

I had a nice note from the lady at CHL office after I asked about why the web status of my application still showed "package mailed to applicant" eventhough they had it back from me by May26th. She indicated that it takes 30 days to get it checked in and start processing. There would be no change in status on the web site until they actually start processing toward completion. Interesting to note that they apparently just let them pile up till they are ready to start. Might be nice to have another category on the web for "packet added to the pile" ?

Update on status through the DPS website shows that even though I have a signed receipt that they received my packet on the friday before Memorial day, it apparently has not been logged in yet. Website still stuck on "packet mailed to applicant". Oh well, good thing I don't really need it yet.

I cannot answer that question. The form they send with your renewal packet contains a place for SSN, DL, etc. So, I would expect that they are running the standard computer checks every time you submit. You have to do 1 new fingerprint card (blue) for the FBI so I guess they do that check as well. Inked prints like that are old fashioned but the new scanner machines are not in many private hands, too expensive I guess.
Interesting item: On my wife's new license, the renewal date is 5 years from her past birthday, so she is getting something like 4yrs 7months on this first time.

start the clock on my renewal. I mailed it on Weds 5-24. I will try to keep the forum posted on the process. Next step.....a return on the receipt requested that was attached, or a change in status from "packet mailed" to "application received" maybe.