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Oregon To Offer Online Driver License Renewals

Brigitte
/
Pixabay

Most Oregon drivers will be able to renew their licenses online starting in early May.

  

Usually a drivers license or ID card renewal in Oregon requires a trip to the DMV. Starting as soon as May 5, the agency says most Oregonians will be able to renew these documents online.

The DMV will use the photo that’s on file and mail out the physical card in about two weeks.

Spokesperson David House said the new process will help the agency work through its backlog of other kinds of transactions that have been slowed due to the coronavirus.

“It frees up appointment times at DMV offices, which are still limited by the COVID-19 restrictions," he said. "And so this will help everybody, not just the people taking advantage of the convenience but also every other DMV customer as well.”

People who want to upgrade to a so-called “Real ID” license will still need to make an in-person visit, as will drivers who want to add a motorcycle or farm endorsement.

 
"We don't know if this will be a permanent change," said House. But regardless of whether or not the Oregon DMV offers this long-term, "if you renew online this time, then the next time you renew you'll have to come in person, because your photo will be 16 years old by that time." 

Chris Lehman has been reporting on Oregon issues since 2006. He joined the KLCC news department in December 2018 and became News Director in March 2023. Chris was born and raised in Pennsylvania, and graduated from Temple University with a degree in journalism. His public broadcasting career includes stops in Louisiana and Illinois. Chris has filed for national programs including “Morning Edition” and “All Things Considered.”
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