If you’re looking to accomplish any driving- or traffic-related tasks in the state of Oregon, you’ll have to look no further than the Oregon DMV. From renewing a drivers license to getting a disabled person parking placard, the DMV is the place that’ll have all the answers. It can be a busy place with large crowds, however, so it’s a great idea to do your research and familiarize yourself with the many services the DMV offers.
Find Your Local Oregon DMV Branch
To locate your nearest Oregon DMV office, simply head to their website for all the details. You’ll be able to find out the exact addresses of DMV offices, along with operating hours and the services they offer. Be sure to call ahead of time, in case there are closures or delays due to holidays and/or inclement weather.
Making an Appointment at an Oregon DMV
It’s best to schedule an appointment at an Oregon DMV branch to beat the crowds and get your tasks done as soon as possible. Unfortunately, the state of Oregon only offers the ability to schedule appointments for driving tests by phone. However, there are still ways to make use of your time more efficiently and minimize your wait times at a branch office. For starters, check the Oregon DMV Online Services page – you may be able to save yourself a trip to the DMV office.
Forms Required at the Oregon DMV
Regardless of what task you’re looking to accomplish at an Oregon DMV location, you’re probably going to be welcomed with a form to fill out. Paperwork makes the DMV work smoothly, so it’s a good idea to be familiar with the forms you’ll be required to complete before you head to a DMV location. The Oregon DMV website has an exhaustive list of all the forms they use – it’s an invaluable resource to save time on your next visit to a DMV location. Head to Forms for more information on the most common types of paperwork you’ll encounter while taking care of your driving-related tasks.
The Oregon Driver Improvement Program
Unlike most states, Oregon does not employ a point system to keep their drivers safe and accountable. Instead, they use a Driver Improvement Program, in which they put restrictions on your driving privileges based on the number of traffic violations you’ve accrued. If you’re under 18 years of age and accumulate two violations, two accidents, or one violation and one accident, the DMV will restrict your driving privileges for 90 days to drive only for work purposes. If you’re an adult 18 years and older and accumulate a combination of three total accidents and violations in an 18-month period, your privileges will be restricted for 30 days. Get four total accidents and violations, and your license may be suspended for a month. For more details, refer to the DMV’s official Driver Improvement Program page.
Get Your Oregon Driving Record
The best way to ensure your driving privileges aren’t restricted is to view your Oregon driving record. Obtaining one from the Oregon DMV is extremely simple: you can either visit a DMV location or even send in a form by mail. Having your Oregon driving record on hand allows you to view all of your violations and determine how much improvement your driving needs. Head to the DMV site to find a list of all the different types of records you can obtain.
