STATEWIDE — The Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) has announced that it will start offering appointments and walk-in service on alternating days.
Beginning Oct. 5, residents will be able to schedule appointments or walk-in service on alternating dates at all DMV locations throughout the Commonwealth.
“We are pleased to continue to offer appointments in addition to walk-in service, since our customers greatly appreciate the convenience and efficiency appointments afford,” said DMV Commissioner Richard D. Holcomb. “Those who plan ahead should schedule an appointment for service but, if in-person assistance is needed urgently, walk-in service will now be available two and a half days per week.”
Appointments can be scheduled only on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays while walk-in service will be offered only on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays. Hours are dependent upon location.
Following a temporary closure due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the DMV began operating by appointment-only at its seventy-five locations across Virginia starting in May 2020. The DMV reports that this appointment-based system has proven popular among residents, in which data taken via survey showed that 77 percent of customers wanted to see this method of service continue.
Additionally, the DMV found that new customers were to utilize online and mail-based services, accounting for over ten percent increase of transactions per week compared to pre-pandemic data.
In a Sept. 9 release, the DMV states that, at the direction of the Virginia General Assembly, the department will begin integrating walk-in service back into its operations. The hybrid service model that goes into effect on Oct. 5 was developed based on research, surveys, experience and the ongoing pandemic.
Those who opt in for walk-in service will be seen on a first come, first serve basis and should anticipate wait times. Lobby chairs will be spaced and customers are strongly encouraged to wear face coverings while inside a DMV location. To schedule an appointment, visit the DMV’s website.
It is important to note that more than fifty transactions can be performed outside of DMV Customer Service Centers, including online, by mail or at a DMV Select partner office. These and more information can be found through the website, dmvNOW.com.