The DMV: Should You Go or No?

Military families do what they can during a PCS to keep the stress at bay. Their creativity and resilience are steadfast even during challenging moments. However, with each move, there’s the daunting task of accepting some things as just a part of relocating. Unfortunately, one of them is visiting the new state’s DMV system.

Family recently spoke to Army Sergeant First Class Kevin Haselton about his experience and knowledge with the Department of Motor Vehicles. With six PCS moves behind him, and one coming up, SFC Haselton knows a thing or two about the DMV. SFC Haselton is married to Samantha and has two sons, Josh (18) and Wyatt (10).

What has your experience been when it comes to the DMV and relocating?

When it comes to driver’s licenses, I have only had to visit a DMV three times. The first time, I was on leave and in North Dakota. I took the opportunity to renew my North Dakota driver’s license. The second time, I was stationed at Ft. Bliss, Texas. Thankfully, they had a DMV on the installation. This made the process simple and efficient. The third time was when I was stationed at Ft. Riley. Even though the DMV wasn’t on the installation, they made the process also simple and efficient. All the times I went in to renew or change my license it was not a difficult process due to being an active-duty military member. None of them are PCS related, but I would have expected the same outcome if completed at the time of my PCS.

Those who are looking to renew or change their license need to look up the requirements prior to making that decision. Some states will send a renewed license by mail. Other states allow you to maintain an expired license as a valid one. By looking up DMV requirements, it allows for a more informed decision on what an individual wants to do. In the end, the best thing you can do is go in with a kind attitude and be polite. You will get more out of a positive interaction than an entitled or negative one.

When it comes to vehicle registration, each state has different laws. For example, Kansas has a different property tax percentage than other states. This can put the individual registering their vehicle to pay more upfront with no payment plan. While there are some states who give a reduced price to service members, however, that doesn’t apply if you’re vehicle was purchased out of state. That may not always be known, so you need to always check the state’s DMV website prior to your move. Plus, some states require you pay a VIN fee to make sure it’s not stolen.

What is the biggest challenge you think service members deal with regarding the DMV?

The biggest challenge I have seen and experienced is people not being prepared ahead of time. Put this on your “to-do” PCS list and do as much as you can online ahead of time. That way, you’re not racing against the clock, trying to make heads or tails of the requirements.