Downtown Portland DMV Getting Reduced Hours Because Of Staff Shortage

Portland, OR — The Department of Motor Vehicles office in downtown Portland will only be open two days a week starting next week, the DMV announced Friday. The change is part of an effort to deal with a growing staffing shortage, the state said.

The DMV said that 16 offices around the state are either being closed or will see their hours reduced.

The downtown Portland office will be open from 8 a.m. through 5 p.m. Thursdays and Fridays.

DMV administrator Amy Joyce noted the irony of closures and hour reductions as they are "preparing for the busiest time of year for DMV," but added that the changes are necessary.

“Lately we’ve been closing offices without notice across the state when we don’t have enough staff that day," Joyce said. "We need to stabilize the staffing so customers can know ahead of time which offices are open. As we recruit and train new employees, we will work to reopen offices and restore full business hours, and that will take several months at least.”

Joyce also noted that summer is one of the busiest times for driving tests as teens are finishing school and looking to get their first license. She suggested that while it's more expensive, people should consider making an appointment with a state-approved testing company.

People should also check the DMV's website where the agency has added many services over the years, according to Joyce.

Whatever people decide to do, Joyce asked that people remember that the people behind the counters are there to help, that they are doing everything that they can to help.

"Please be kind and patient to your local DMV staff," she said. "They are your neighbors, friends and maybe even family."