GREENVILLE, N.C. (WITN) – Brian Parker visited the DMV on Monday aiming to obtain his first driver’s license at the age of 50.
“I’m 50 years old and I never had one, so this is a good time for me to try and get it,” Parker explained.
For Parker, acquiring a driver’s license is crucial for his job search. However, he expressed concerns about the financial impact of the DMV’s recent fee increases.
“It’s hurting, but we need it. It’s hurting our pockets,” Parker said.
Starting July 1st, DMV fees will rise significantly with the new fiscal year. For example, a commercial driver’s license application will increase by about $8, and a learner’s permit will go up by $4.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the consumer price index rose by 3.3% over the past year, not seasonally adjusted.
DMV communications manager Marty Homan explained that this year’s fee hike is more than double the increase seen four years ago, attributing it to rising costs.
“Last time the increase was about 8%. Now it’s a little over 19%,” Homan shared.
In addition to the fee adjustments, the DMV will begin collecting transaction fees and has expanded operating hours to include Saturdays. They have also introduced new driver’s licenses and ID cards.
Copyright 2024 WITN. All rights reserved.