How to Survive the DMV
If you plan on just strolling into the DMV at 1 p.m. on a Friday, please, for your own sake, think again. The DMV is bad enough without diving right into the center of the chaos. There are ways in which you can minimize the pain, and you’ll be grateful you thought ahead. Here are some tips to keep in mind when getting ready to visit the DMV.
Do Anything To Minimize Wait Time
Do your best to reduce wait time as much as possible. Use an office finder to identify where the closest or most convenient DMV office is, and make sure to check its website to see the rules on making appointments. Make sure you have your six points of verification and proof of car insurance in some cases.
Depending on the issue, you don’t always have to join the Disney-like lines you’ll find at the DMV. Many services can be completed online or through the mail. For example, in California, you can renew your driver’s license, make a change of address, and request your driving record all online.
Go at the Right Time
If you’re making an appointment, still try to make it for one of these times. If you’re a courageous soul epic enough to join the ranks of Chuck Norris and Samuel L. Jackson and you plan to walk in, definitely consider the following advice from the Wisconsin Department of Transportation about when to go:
- Try to go mid-week; avoid Monday and Friday
- Aim for between 9:30 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. or 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.
- Avoid the first and last days of the month.
- Avoid any days that come right after holidays.
Bring Necessary Items
Depending on what you have to do at the DMV and which DMV you go to — this is such a racket, isn’t it? — you’ll need different materials. Consult your DMV’s website or call to find out what you need in advance. However, most people need to bring items like your license, passport, and other identifying information.
Aside from the items the DMV will need, bring some for your own sanity. If you’re a reader, bring a book, preferably a book of short stories that have continual endings, which makes getting interrupted less of an issue. If you have a smartphone, stock up on gaming apps, listen to music, or if you’re nervous about taking a driving test, download the Drivers Ed app to practice.
Conclusion
The DMV might be the ultimate test of your patience, but if you prepare properly, simply adjust your perspective to look on the event as the opportunity to get little tasks (like sending out some emails, reading a few chapters of your book, etc.) done.
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