Lawmakers OK funding to cut wait times at DMV

The lines at the Department of Motor Vehicles might be getting shorter soon.

A new system will allow customers to check their wait-time status remotely via computer, cellphone or other mobile device. It takes effect July 1.

Lawmakers on Saturday approved using $2.3 million in highway funds to maintain 25 previously temporary DMV counter positions approved by the Interim Finance Committee. That will prevent the average wait time at DMV’s six metropolitan offices from increasing and maintain the resources in Elko and Winnemucca offices needed to keep pace with population growth and increased mining activity, a staff analysis showed.

The current wait time averages 39 minutes.

In addition, the Senate and Assembly joint money committees approved $371,076 to buy a new automated customer tracking and flow system.

The queuing system will direct customers waiting in DMV’s 12 offices and track wait times, customer counts, how many people are served in 30 minutes or less and other statistical factors.