COVID-19 has truly changed the way people around the world are handling their day-to-day lives. At this time, it is extremely important for yourself and those around you to keep as isolated as possible and take the precautionary measures set forth by the World Health Organization and your local government leaders.
At Aceable, we understand that there may be some things concerning you at the moment about your drivers license, whether you need it renewed or you’re in the process of earning it. In the midst of the sudden changes to everyday life, DMVs and similar institutions are changing their hours and services to ensure public safety. We aim to keep you updated and educated in the areas we know best.
Here are a few updates about DMVs and drivers licenses processes to keep an eye on:
DMV Hours and Services Updates to Keep an Eye On During the COVID-19 Crisis
Shorter Hours & Appointment-Only Services
Across the country, the governing bodies like the DMV have shortened their hours and are restricting the number of people they allow in the building. Throughout the Spring, these institutions restricted the services offered and requested that anyone needing to visit make an appointment for their required service.
Texas DMV Update as of May 26, 2020
After momentarily halting licensing services during the Shelter-in-place orders, the Texas DMV is now reopening it's doors and services for those seeking to get or renew their drivers license or to take their drivers license exam.
It is important to note that the Texas DMV is requiring anyone that needs to visit the DMV to make an appointment prior to arrival. You can make an appointment on the Texas DMV website here.
In addition, the DMV requests that anyone that is able to renew their drivers license online or by mail, do so. They are still practicing social distancing requirements and hope to prevent any unnecessary traffic to keep their visitors and employees safe.
California DMV Updates as of May 26, 2020
The California DMV has slowly begun to open up offices in various offices across the state. They are actively encouraging those that can use their Virtual DMV services to complete their tasks to do so, to avoid crowding.
The DMV has extended the waiver on drivers license extensions through July 31, 2020. This applies to all citizens, including those who need to renew in person due to a health or vision condition.
Learner's permit holders with permits that expire between March and August 31, 2020 have been extended six months or 24 months from the date of application, whichever is earlier.
Those who hold commercial learner's permits that have expired are now valid through June 30.
Extension for License and Registration Renewal
*As of May 26, 2020, the temporary waiver for vehicle title and registration requirements are still in effect.
States like Texas, California, and Florida are all granting a 30-60 day grace period for any license renewals that need to take place within the next month. If you find yourself with an expired license that cannot be renewed online, you will now have more time to renew your license in person. This same extension is being granted for Vehicle Registration and Disabled Parking Placards.
This action is being seen across the nation and will most likely be the norm in upcoming days. Keep an eye on your local news to double-check if this is the case to avoid an unnecessary trip to the DMV.
Texas, California, and More Halting Driving Tests
In order to prevent any person-to-person contact, states like Texas and California are halting their exams for teens and adults to earn their drivers license. This means that the in-car driving exams will be postponed until at least the end of April 2020.
The Department of Licensing has temporarily paused drivers license services, which is expected to be lifted by the end of March 2020.
As always, please check with your local governing body, whether that is the DMV, BMV, FLHSMV, or other bureaus to keep updated on changing hours and services. We will do our best to keep you informed as priorities and health concerns shift throughout the country.