Related Questions from DMV Answers

• Where can I get an application for a temporary license plate?

  Probably because of the amount of paperwork that’s required (copies of title/registration documents, proof of identification, proof of residency, proof of vehicle identification number, fees, etc.), most states require owners to apply for temporary license plates (or temporary permits or temporary registrations, as some states call them) in person at the DMV or other state motor vehicle licensing agency. If this is the case for you, sweep through your state’s Web site and look to see if an temporary license plate application form is available online before heading out; it could save you some time.No matter what state you live in, when you purchase a new or used vehicle from a dealership your salesperson will start most of the registration-related paperwork for you and issue you a temporary license plate or equivalent; therefore, the grid doesn’t reflect the dealership option.Check your state in the grid below.
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• How can I check the wait time at the DMV?

  Do all you can to lessen the ordeal of waiting in line at the DMV. Check to see which DMV locations allow you to check the wait time and hours online. Many states now offer customer traffic monitoring systems which can be checked online prior to arriving at the DMV. These systems generally monitor appointment and nonappointment wait times. When first introduced, this technology was calculated to cut wait times by an average of 30 minutes.  Unfortunately, not all branches in states that utilize this technology will be equipped with such monitoring. If you cannot check the wait time at your DMV location online, try to shorten your wait time by calling the branch to check on wait times or by making an appointment, if possible. Prevent a second trip to the DMV by taking the correct paperwork. Also keep in mind that many DMVs offer extensive online services such as registration renewal, drivers license renewal, and change of address.
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• How much do personalized license plates cost?

  Personalized license plates, otherwise known as vanity, courtesy, custom, or prestige license plates, have become very popular in the United States as automobile owners seek individuality. Every state offers personalized license plates for an additional fee. Getting vanity plates is fun. It makes a personal statement about the owner of the vehicle. Another benefit is that your personalized plates make your vehicle very easy to identify when parked in a crowded lot. Coming up with a unique license plate can be somewhat difficult. It’s time to give your creative side a workout. Make sure that your message isn’t offensive or something that will send the wrong message to other drivers. For safety reasons, you may want to avoid using your first name on your license plate. Try to think of a message that involves your hobbies, your position at work, a nickname or a fun fact about you. In most states, you can visit the Department of Motor Vehicles Web site and enter your choic...
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• What does it cost for renewing expired license?

  The first thing you need to do is visit your state's DMV Web site and look under the section for drivers license. You should then find the information you need under license renewal. Each state has different procedures on how to renew an expired license. Some may allow you to renew license online. Others may require visiting a DMV office in person. Your state may charge you a late fee in addition to the normal license renewal cost. Wisconsin, for example, charges a $5 late fee.The sooner you address this issue, the better. If you get caught driving on an expired license, you will be ticketed and have points added to your record. And some states have additional renewing expired license requirements. Virginia, for instance, requires any driver whose license has been expired for longer than one year to re-take all three licensing tests (vision screening, two-part knowledge exam and road test).
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• How can I make an online appointment at the DMV?

  Find a list of DMV locations near you online. If your DMV has the capability of making an online appointment, there will be a link to online appointments on the DMV homepage. Making an online appointment saves a lot of time waiting in line, so research your DMV and set up a time to come in, if possible. The appointment capabilities vary from state to state. California allows its customers to make online appointments for all office visits and road tests. Florida has an online appointment service for written, road tests, commercial tests, and drivers license renewals; you can even request an interpreter or sign language here.  Not every state DMV offers online appointments for every service; road test appointments are the most common. New York allows you to schedule road tests online, but not other appointments.  Other DMVs do not have online appointment services at all. Massachusetts has online services, but not online appointment makers; the state allows you to complete po...
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