COLUMBUS— Imagine waiting in line at the BMV without having to physically get in line?
Thanks to a new virtual queuing pilot program launched by Ohio Governor Mike DeWine and Lt. Governor John Husted, those seeking BMV services, such as license renewal or vehicle registration, will be able to do just that.
- BMV customers can reserve their spot in line by checking in online
- After checking in, customers have a 4-hour window to claim their spot
- The system is active at 12 deputy registrar locations in Ohio
The new system will enable customers to “Get in Line, Online” and reserve their spot in the queue by checking in online.
This is certainly welcome news for drivers who feel that waiting in line at the BMV can feel like an eternal red light.
"The wait. Really, once you get up there, you're really not up there very long, so it's like, why did I wait that long?" said Frank Stiger, driver.
For Stiger, uncertain line times also meant taking off from work.
"I have to miss getting money to come in and handle this and spend money, but it was necessary for me to keep working, so I had to do what I had to do, I guess," Stiger said.
DeWine says this new technology will save drivers time and improve the BMV customer experience.
“Right now, drivers can be subjected to significant wait times, which is inconvenient, inefficient, and frustrating,” said DeWine. “We believe the introduction of this new technology will save drivers’ valuable time and give the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles and its deputy registrars better ability to provide exceptional customer service.”
Once they complete the online check-in, customers are given a four-hour window to arrive at the deputy registrar location, check in at a kiosk and claim their spot.
"Our goal is to change the culture of state government so every service is designed with the customer in mind," said Husted.
The system is currently active at 12 of Ohio’s 186 deputy registrar locations, in Bedford, Centerville, Columbus, Findlay, Grove City, Hilliard and Westerville.
If the system is successful, it could evenually expand to other parts of the state.
“The BMV understands that time is valuable and therefore the most important aspect of customer service,” said Ohio BMV Registrar Charles Norman. “We are dedicated to improving and enhancing the overall customer experience by providing our customers with access to innovative options that better meet their diverse needs.”
Using the new system is optional and walk-in service is still welcome.
Customers can access the system by visiting the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicle’s website.
