DMV EZ

A few weeks ago, I got a renewal form for my driver's license, but not one for mail-in, but "must come in to the DMV office."  I had visions of the interminable lines that the DMV is renowned for, as written by Dante in his tales of hell.  Fortunately, I was reminded that one can make an appointment online.  I did so, and mine was scheduled for today at 2:45 PM.

I preferred to show up a little early.  There was, indeed, a very loooong time -- but "Appointments Only" just three two people ahead of me.  I got my call number, filled out a form, read for a few minutes, and at 2:47 I got called.  After filling out another form and taking an eye-chart test, I was sent to the dreaded photo line.  That was done, and I was out of the office a whole 10 minutes after my appointment was set for!  (Even more so, because I live only about 10 minutes from the DMV office, I was back home just a bit over 45 minutes after I got in my car to head over.

I can't speak for other states, but if you live in California and need to go to the DMV office, I can't recommend highly enough setting up an online appointment.  Easy as could be.  Fast as could be.  Now, I only have to wait until they send me a new license with a new, dreaded photo.