I have passed the required tests for a Michigan driver's license, and
just received the Temporary Operator License. It will take two to
three weeks before I receive the real license (with my photo on it). I
would like to know whether I can use the temporary license for driving
any where in the United States? I also want to know whether I can use
it to rent a car
along with a photo ID? Are there any restrictions on this temporary license (any
links to goverment specifications would be great)

Let me know if you need further information

Dear ppadala-ga,

Congratulations on Passing!  

I am an attorney in Michigan and have had some experience in this
area. The Michigan Vehicle Code, section 301 (Michigan Compiled Laws
257.301), found at:
http://www.legislature.mi.gov/(hfq3tu55r0xu0jas3vrd1d55)/mileg.aspx?page=GetMCLDocument&objectname=mcl-257-301
only requires a valid operator?s license, which the paper copy
certainly is. You can drive to your heart?s content, so long as there
are no restrictions contained on the temporary license form that you
were provided.

Here is a link to the Michigan Traffic Benchbook which is published by
the Michigan Judicial Institute, the organization that provides
training to judges and court staff.  You might find their description
of license offenses helpful.
http://courts.michigan.gov/mji/resources/traffic/vol_1/Vol_1_Chap_3.pdf

As to renting a car . . . that is totally up to the agency. And they
all differ a bit. Typically though, if you are 25 or older (almost no
agency will rent to people under 25) and have a valid license and
photo I.D. and a credit card that they can hit if you damage the
vehicle (they essentially have insurance with a high deductible that
you are taking responsibility for) ? if you have all of that ? they
will rent a car to you.  I have rented a car before with a temporary
license and had no problem.

Make sure, though, to call the car rental agency (their 800 number
would be fine ? you don?t need the local agency) and explain who you
are and what you want to do. Get their name and write it down along
with the confirmation number in case there is a later question.

Drive Safely!!

weisstho-ga

p.s.  Anything else??  Just hit the Clarification Button!

Search Strategy
Michigan Vehicle Code
Michigan Judicial Institute

Thanks for researching this for me. I have actually rented a car, and
everything was smooth.

Cheers !