Concierge Ride TN

3 hours ago

Real ID Update 😉

With droves of residents flocking to Tennessee's 44 facilities to get their driver's licenses every day, the Department of Safety and Homeland Security has turned to local government offices, like the Wilson County clerk's office, to provide assistance.

The state agency, which is facing frustrations over long wait times and technology problems, is actively trying to convince county clerks across Tennessee to help process driver's license applications.

Overall, state officials are confident that adding new employees at busy license facilities and soon-to-be dispatched mobile units could help reduce long lines.

Part of the reason facilities across Tennessee are so backed up is because of the multitude of services they offer, said Michael Hogan, the agency's driver's license issuance director.

Hogan said driver's license offices are also responsible for issuance of handgun permits, a graduated driver's license program, voter registration, organ tissue donation, inspections for commercial vehicles, selective service registration and ignition interlock installations.

As a result, county clerks have become an alternate option for issuing driver's licenses.

"We're pushing aggressively every day," said Paula Shaw, assistant commissioner for driver's services.

With clerks in each of Tennessee's 95 counties, Shaw said more than 40 county clerks have already agreed to provide services, with more "in the pipeline." ...