I noted with amusement the recent Mook cartoon illustrating skeletons that had waited in line at the DMV. I then read with interest David Larson’s Opinion Column on suggesting the DMV adopting Chick-Fil-A’s philosophy at the DMV.
However, since it is not possible to make an appointment at the DMV, I knew it was time for me to dive in for my license renewal.
I arrived at the DMV at 8:20 a.m. to find the parking lot was full. A worker in the lot said people often go down the street to park at the gas station.
After walking back, I got in line outside with 25-30 others. After 1 hour and 20 minutes I got to the front desk with my information. After my information was reviewed, I was told that since I lived close in Spencer, it wouldn’t be too bad for me to go home and wait for a text in approximately 2.5 hours to return.
The 2.5-hour wait at home turned into a bit over five hours for my text to head on back.
When arriving, there was not a line outside because the sign said that no new applicants could be accepted for the day. I told the fellow at the front desk that I had my acceptance number. He said, “sit down and your number will be called.” I asked, “could there be a possibility that my number has been called during my trip here?” He again coldly said, “have a seat and your number will be called.”
I took a seat in the small crowded waiting area. After an hour, and everyone else had been called but one other person, I asked the same person to please check if there was something wrong. He left and came back and said that my number had all ready been called, with no explanation or indication of what could be done.
At this point, a very professional supervisor appeared, calmed things down and said I would be taken care of shortly. She also was who later processed my information for my renewal an an efficient and pleasant manner. She saved the day of what was left of a bad experience.
My tips are these: Dress accordingly for an outside wait. Plan for a big part of your day to be taken. And above all, be patient.
— Dennis White
Spencer
