DMVs Feel Summer Rush
If you are going to get your license or need a road test this summer at a Department of Motor Vehicles, make an appointment and have a seat. There are long waits for those trying to get a new driver’s license at vehicle testing stations, including the one in Plymouth.
Brooklyn Center resident Joseph Ganz got up at the crack of dawn to get a right spot at the Plymouth DMV.
“I’ve been here since 5:45 this morning,” replied Ganz.
It was 1:30 in the afternoon when we talked with him, and he still hadn’t taken the road test. Ganz had to find ways to keep busy while waiting.
“Listening to music and the radio and that’s pretty much it.”
Nick Westberg booked an appointment to take the road test, but even that was a hassle. The DMV appointment was five months out.
“I just want to take the test and get it done with, but I had to wait a long time. It’s past my birthday, by two months,” said the teen.
Although Nick had an appointment, He and his dad still had to wait a long time upon arrival.
“He waited three hours for the test, “said Nick’s dad Wendall Westberg,
The lines inside to take the written exam were also backed up.
“Three and a half hours, yeah. And I filled out an application, so we were ready to go,” explained Maple Grove resident Ann Price.
She had to rearrange other appointments. The weary mom also went to get food because the wait was so long.
“I’m not good at being angry, but yeah… it’s irritating,” said Price.
Summertime is always busy at the DMV. Officials say they don’t have enough examiners to keep up with demand.
There are currently 110 DMV examiners across the state. The Department of Public Safety is hiring seven additional examiners in the next fiscal year, which started July 1st. This, after receiving additional funding during the last legislative session.
A spokesperson for the Driver and Vehicle Services Department says the delays don’t affect those renewing their driver’s license because they don’t require the same type of enhanced review compared to new licenses. Renewals typically take about two weeks.
