Sure, you can check on the status of your CHL. One must have one's PIN to do it. Go to Texasonline.com, then to Online Services and then click on the CHL leads to eventually one that will ask for your driver's license; SS, birthdate and your PIN.
In fact, Mrs. Oldgringo's status changed today to:
Application Completed - license issued or certificate active .
That's the message you're looking for.
This is a long story - some 160 days long
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. Details will follow once the plastic is in hand.