Gov. Wolf Visits Norristown DMV, Pledges to Make It Faster

Gov. Wolf is working to improve the speed of the DMV experience around the state, including in Norristown. Wolf visited the Norristown DMV on Friday for the grand opening of the new location, just one aspect of new technology which his office says will speed up operations.

Norristown's DMV - technically a Driver's License Center, but called a DMV by officials and the public in shorthand and out of familiarity - is expanding on new software to reduce wait times for drivers that was originally issued in December they said in a press release. New technologies allow PennDOT to monitor wait times around the state and deploy additional employees to locations in real time where there is a heightened need.

Wolf's office touted the success of the new technology already at the Malvern DMV, where the new system prompted PennDOT to add an extra camera to its photo license operation and expand hours of operation. As a result, wait times were cut from 90 minutes to less than 30 minutes.

According to Deputy Press Secretary J.J. Abbott, additional features of the new Norristown DMV include:

• Customer feedback units at every counter station, giving real-time data on our customers’ satisfaction and allowing for intervention at the time of service.
• Customers can opt for queuing text notifications to their mobile phone, so they have the freedom to run errands nearby or enjoy the outdoor seating area without losing their place in line.
• Norristown will be the first location that will allow customers to make an appointment for a service at the driver’s license center, and be placed in the queue in advance of their arrival.
• Additionally, the website will also include average wait times, which will help customers to plan their visits accordingly.

While these changes are being piloted in Norristown, they could soon see expansion to locations like Malvern and elsewhere around the region.

Image via Gov. Wolf's Office.