The Oklahoma DPS is your all-in-one location to settle all of your automobile-related needs. A trip to one of its offices is unavoidable, so it is important that every Oklahoma resident become acquainted with its processes. Learning how to minimize time spent at the DPS and get matters taken care of efficiently is ideal for a great DPS experience. The Oklahoma DPS handles matters such as license renewals, vehicle title registrations, driving skills tests, and lifting suspensions, and is a rich source of information regarding traffic laws.
Locate Your Nearest Oklahoma DPS Branch
The first step is to locate your nearest DPS branch, of which there are two different types. The OTC Motor Vehicle Division’s Tag Agent offices deal with vehicle titles and registrations. Driver License Exam Stations offer the same services as Tag Agents, but also offer the vision, knowledge, and road tests. Prior to your visit, make sure to contact your potential branch and inquire about operating hours and specific services offered, to prevent having to schedule another trip.
Schedule an Appointment with the Oklahoma DPS
Scheduling appointments is one of the best ways to save time at the DPS. To make your drivers license exam appointment, consult the list of official exam stations. If there is no phone number listed next to your branch, you will have to visit directly to schedule your exam. A handful of locations offers an online reservation system, in which you choose the type of service you want to schedule an appointment for. There are many options, which include “ID Card,” “Learner Permit,” and “Motorcycle License.” Unfortunately, not all locations provide this option, and in many cases you will not be able to make an appointment.
Access DPS Forms
Paperwork is an undeniable way of life at the Oklahoma DPS, as most tasks require you to fill out forms. Staying on top of the relevant paperwork is one of the most effective ways of saving time at the DPS office. If you find out about the necessary forms beforehand and have them ready, you will spend less time there and save everyone’s time. This will also give you the chance to look up any pieces of information you haven’t memorized, such as personal and vehicle records. All of the relevant forms can be found on the Oklahoma DPS website; print out the ones you need, and you’ll have a smooth and easy trip the next time you visit the DPS. For more info on the most common applications used, visit Forms.
Oklahoma’s Point System
The Oklahoma DPS uses a point system to keep track of violations, encourage safe driving, and remove reckless drivers from the roads. You are assessed 1 or more points if you are convicted of a traffic violation; accumulating 10 within a 5-year period will result in suspension of your license. Common examples include 4 points for reckless driving, 2 points for following too closely, and 1 point for operating a defective vehicle.
Fortunately, there are ways to reduce your point amount before it reaches the suspension limit. 2 points are deducted for each 12-month period of no convictions. Points return to zero if there are no convictions for 3 years. 2 points are deducted for each successful completion of a DPS-approved course, but this method can only be used biennially. For detailed information, consult the Oklahoma Drivers Manual.
Get a Copy of Your Driving Record
Your driving record displays all resolved or outstanding violations, citations, suspension, points, and anything else impacting your driving history. Requesting a copy is a foolproof method of staying up to date on the current status of your driver’s license, and can prevent future suspensions and other problems. After filling out the form, you will need to mail it to the DPS along with the applicable fees. Be aware that insurance companies and employers can view your driving record, which can potentially affect your premiums and employment opportunities, so keep your record clean at all costs.
