TRN
That was my experience back in 2006, and in those days the temporary Texas driver license didn't even have a picture on it. I thought it odd as well, but since I had my military ID card as well, they had no problem in processing my purchase.
My wife subsequently lost her drivers license a few years back and got a temporary one (guess who had to take her to the DMV? ). I noticed they now have pictures on them.
The 30-day thing may be how long it takes to get the permanent drivers license, but according to the ATF "a purchaser may be identified by any combination of government-issued documents which together establish all of the required information: Name, residence address, date of birth, and photograph of the holder." (per 27 CFR 478.11 and 478.124(c)).
As for the 3-day requirement, I know you have to get a Texas drivers license within 30 days of arriving here; but I am not aware of a minimal amount of time you have to spend in this state to officially be a resident...does anyone?
Cheers! M2
You're a resident the instant you start living here.