In 2003, with the passage of the Motor Vehicle Security and Customer Service Act, the Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) was established, putting an end to the long lines, inadequate customer service and general inefficiency that characterized the New Jersey Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV).
And with that name change has come a new attitude. With the Fix DMV Commission – the group that set the DMV on a course for reform – as the guiding force, the MVC has revamped many aspects of the organization and has fully committed itself to improving customer service as it strives for excellence in motor vehicle services.
So far, a great deal has been accomplished.
In the four years since the MVC was established, wait times at agencies have been substantially reduced, Saturday hours at agencies have been reinstated and the Web site www.njmvc.gov underwent a customer-friendly overhaul. The site now offers improved access to information, including more than 70 downloadable forms and a number of convenient ways to perform online transactions. Our agencies are receiving face lifts, too. By using the Model Agency concept, the MVC is providing increased square footage, additional service windows and improved public areas at agencies statewide.
These services, along with many others, have been upgraded with one goal in mind: to provide New Jersey motorists with the most efficient customer service possible.
Now, the MVC can add one more customer service amenity to the list: acceptance of credit cards at agencies and regional service centers statewide.
No longer will customers have to search through wallets or bags for cash or checkbooks. With a quick swipe of a VISA, MasterCard or American Express Card, customers will have a new, convenient way to finish their MVC transaction and be on their way. What could be easier than that?
Accepting credit cards is just another way the MVC is working to accommodate the nearly 6.4 million licensed drivers in New Jersey. In today’s world, credit cards are accepted practically everywhere. This new service is a natural and long-awaited step forward for the MVC, as the organization seeks to provide faster and more convenient services to customers.
Credit card transactions are just the latest service improvement in our agencies. The MVC is always working to incorporate new and emerging technologies that will continue to better serve New Jersey’s motorists. While it’s important to recognize the positive progress of the MVC, it’s equally important to note that, as the MVC moves further and further away from the horrendous reputation of the former DMV, there still exists a lengthy to-do list.
The MVC can point to a number of successful customer service improvements, and more are still to come. The MVC will continue to improve for New Jersey motorists as it reaches for the goal of excellence in safety, security and service.
Sharon A. Harrington
Chief Administrator
New Jersey
Motor Vehicle Commission
Trenton