DMV: Computer problems persist, services hindered

Published 8:18 am Monday, August 30, 2010

The computer problems that suspended driver’s license service last week at all of Virginia’s Department of Motor Vehicle offices have continued.

In a release on Sunday, the DMV said it would not be able to process driver’s licenses or ID cards at any of its customer service centers, due to a statewide computer system problem. That problem will persist at least through Tuesday.

The agency said late Monday afternoon that the Virginia Information Technologies Agency and Northrop Grumman (VITA/NG) are working to restore service.

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It also warned that when the problem is fixed customers should expect much longer wait times.

“DMV anticipates high customer volume after the outage is restored, and this week is traditionally the busiest week of the month,” the agency said in its release.

“August is also one of the DMV’s busiest months of the year. When the outage is resolved, DMV will be staffed to full capacity and will utilize part-time staff to meet the increased service demands.”

The agency also said those with licenses expiring Aug. 25-30 must visit a DMV office once service is restored to renew their licenses. In addition, the DMV said those customers should bring “your birth certificate, passport, or other document that confirms you are a U.S. citizen or legally authorized by the federal government to be in the country.”

Another service affected is that of providing disabled parking placards. Although temporary disabled parking placards are still available at the DMV, the agency said the computer outage might delay the delivery of the permanent placards by mail.

“Therefore, the validity period of receipts for placards purchased during the outage will be extended until at least Sept. 16,” the agency said.

For more information, visit www.dmvnow.com or call 804-497-7100.