Do you mean, must you have your 1098-T in order to claim education credits?
Yes.
Too often, people file for an education credit without the 1098-T only to discover that the information they entered was wrong. Your refund will be delayed, and you may have to file an amended return. The IRS isn't accepting returns until January 23, and your school is not required to issue your 1098-T until January 31. Please be patient; it will save you both time and money.
If you were asking whether you can file without including education credits, you could do that now and file an amended return after the 1098-T arrives. Amended returns must be mailed, and you will get your refund 4-6 weeks later.