NORCROSS, Ga. — State officials say long lines have improved at drivers license offices, remarks that come after a slew of complaints about a new law that went into effect in July that many attribute as the source of the delays.
Channel 2's Kerry Kavanugh spoke to drivers at the Norcross drivers license facility at Beaver Ruin Road, where some customers said they were pleased with the progress.
"When I first came in, it looked not promising," Melissa Fortner said.
Fortner said when she first arrived at the facility, she saw a very long check-in line, but she said she was pleasantly surprised when she quickly went through it.
"By the time we got through the line, it took about five minutes to get to the desk," she said.
Fortner came to the facility because she lost her license. A new law requires all drivers to renew their licenses in person.
Secure I.D. Act also requires drivers to bring several additional documents for proof of identity.
The changes created a hardships for many as some customers were forced to wait as long as seven hours for service.
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State officials told Channel 2 Action News they believed the situation would work itself out, and so far it appears that it has based on recent feedback from customers.
"It took me about an hour, (a) little bit shorter time than I thought it was going to be," Daryl Hoskin said.
The Department of Driver Services believes their workers and the customers are getting used to the new system in place and are better prepared.
They said they are also better utilizing the check-in desks so by the time customers reach the counter, they have everything they need.
DDS officials said they have also expanded the options for documentation to show proof of a name change through marriage and proof of residency.
"We've actually avoided coming here and just kind of put it off until we just had to come and it was pretty easy," Fortner added.
Officials said they have now filled all 22 additional positions the state budgeted for them for the new program. Those positions were not filled when the new requirements took effect in July.
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