On this episode of In The Know, host David Winstead interviews Christine Nizer the Administrator of the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration. Christine shares the effects Covid-19 has had on the operations of the MVA and discusses the ongoing IT modernization projects, like upgrading the MVA’s systems for more efficient services to the public. REAL ID, TSA Pre-Check, Mobile Drivers License, and the additional online services have extended the conveniences available to all Marylanders.
The MVA’s main concern was and is the safety of its employees and the general public. MVA only shutdown for about 6 weeks, but not completely. The back offices were still producing licenses, registrations, and titles. They continued to do their part to support the supply chain by continuing to test commercial drivers and issue duplicate licenses. The crucial services were never shut down because many of them can be accessed if you sign up at mva.maryland.gov/online-services.
REAL ID is a Federal security standard for ID’s. Licenses are used for many things and the MVA holds that as a very important part of their mission. 85% of Maryland residences have their REAL ID already. If your license has a star on the top right it means you’ve met the REAL ID’s standards. With REAL ID the MVA is proving residency by electronically verifying the address given with the Postal Service and then mailing the license to the address for added security.
TSA Pre-Check is also available at some branches. You can make an appointment online and work with an MVA agent to get your TSA Pre-Check. TSA Pre-Check offers a number of benefits, including an expedited airport security screening process, the comfort of not having to remove shoes, belts or light jackets before clearing airport security, and the ability to leave laptops and TSA-approved liquids and gels in your carry on luggage.
Coming later this year Maryland MVA is partnering with Apple to include a Mobile Drivers License for Apple Wallet. It’s another step forward in security and the benefit of only showing certain information that’s needed instead of showing your complete information.
Another fact people may not know is that the MVA Generates Revenue for Maryland that goes to road projects and other transportation projects. The largest portion of revenue goes directly to the Transportation Trust Fund. You can also purchase vanity plates and that revenue goes to the Chesapeake Bay Foundation and the Agricultural Foundation. Also, with every registration there is an EMS fee that goes to the Helicopter and Emergency Fund. Over a billion dollars is generated with user fees and revenues. The 2nd largest revenue generated in Maryland.
Take care of any of your MVA needs at one of these local locations.
Montgomery County MVA Locations
Gaithersburg (Full Service Location)
Walnut Hill (Limited Service Location)
White Oak (Full Service Location)
Kemp Mill (Limited Service Location)
Montgomery County, East (VEIP Location) – View Live Wait Times
Montgomery County, Central (VEIP Location) – View Live Wait Times