The staff here are extremely hard working and friendly! Of course the wait is lengthy but the staff make up for it. Thank you!

Nothing good can be said about this place. People working there don't wanna be there, drivers going in don't wanna be there. Long waits. There's a grumpy hefty lady who works there. Watch out for her. Two times I went in I got her. Both times rude service. I got there 1.5 hours before the doors open and already there was a line. It's okay, at least the DMV only wants to take money away from you. Money can be remade. read more

Filled out the paper work online and they give me a code for my real id. Came in around 3 and left at 3:20. Very fast and organized if you do the stuff online first. Very impressed. read more

Four stars based solely on the time it takes to get in and out!! Today I had an appointment for 8:40 to repleace my lost license and was out before 9:00. Last time I was there for some registration issues and I didn't have an appointment, but I was in and out in less than an hour. This is not the coziest place, nor is there a lot of breathing room. The people who work there aren't the friendliest, but given what they'e got to work with, I wouldn't be either. When I go to the DMV, I just want to get my task done, and get on with my life, and that's exactly what this place allows me to do! Note: there is limited pay parking in the lot, but tons of free street parking. read more

The DMV has become a caricature of itself in recent years, often depicted by morose faces and a grim place you can't wait to get out of. While, yes, this location is very busy and, yes, it's warm and loud and you're likely to wait for a while, I had a wonderful experience. Every staff member I spoke to was cheerful, welcoming, and patient. Heather, who helped me the majority of my visit, was kind and answered questions clear and concisely. Never once did I feel rushed. She and her colleagues seemed to really enjoy their jobs and working with each other. I was led seamlessly through the process to get a new license and was out of the center in under an hour. All staff that I could see were masked, though there was no requirement for patrons to mask at the time of my visit. read more

YELPers, drivers, my experience here has been remarkably helpful, despite undeserved harsh ratings. The female Security was unbelievably patient, gave me direction, handled a loud customer with dignity, maintained a positive attitude. I didn't hv an appointment & was able to replace a needed item in less than an hour. My worker was extremely patient & knowledgeable. I observed @ least four other staff demonstrating professional, courteous service. It's not easy waiting & its not easy dealing with those waiting. YELPers, drivers, this DMV will change perceptions, provide hope. read more

The only place worse than the DMV is traffic court. I came here to renew my driver's license-- it had lapsed because I hadn't changed my address at the DMV and so I never received the reminder notice (if there was one). I had tried to renew online, but then I realized that they were going to send the new license to my old address, and that even though I had a receipt of payment for renewing my license, this wouldn't hold up with the po po if I got caught driving with an expired license. I came here on a Monday afternoon around 1 pm, and the line is out the door. When I got to the desk, I explained the situation to the clerk, who gave me the most nonsensical information I've ever heard. First she said I'd probably have to pay to renew my license again that day, and ask for Sacramento to send me a refund for the payment I had already made online. Then she told me to drive with my expired license, and that if I got pulled over, that I should just tell the cops that I was renewing. I told her that the DMV website said specifically that having proof of renewal pending was not valid with law enforcement. She shrugged and said, "depends on the cop". Lovely. Then she warned me about the hour and a half wait... which I was already expecting, and would be much more preferable than having to deal with a major fine and having to go back to traffic court (I had a very choice experience there recently-- curious? See my review for Superior Traffic Court off Clairmont Blvd). I waited in line- there are not enough chairs in there to seat everyone waiting, there are no outlets to charge your phone (1st world problems), and there is no rhyme or reason as to who gets called next in line. Fortunately the girl who handled my renewal had her wits about her and the actual renewal was processed very quickly and I was able to get a temporary pass. The guy taking the photos... not so useful. The pros of the DMV are that I actually was able to do what I needed to do in less than an hour and a half, and unlike what the lady at the front counter had said, I didn't have to pay twice. Also, if you like people watching, there are some characters there for watching. Otherwise prepare to lose an hour or more of your life in this soul sucking little pit. Bring a book, a snack, headphones perhaps. If I have to come here again, I'll get a ticket to wait in line, then go have some lunch at one of the nearby restaurants and come back later. read more

DMV - Better hope for a Willy Wonka ticket! - Departments of Motor Vehicles Near Me - San Diego, California

Got there at 6:50am on a Friday, was done by 8:30am. Come early to get a parking spot and a seat, there was only standing room maybe by 8am. There are a few employees here who seemed very unhappy but the gentleman who helped me was wonderful and funny. Got my license renewed (as a real ID) and picked up vanity plates. I ordered the plates online and it took a couple months before I got a notice in the mail to pick them up. They don't take credit cards, you can pay with debit/cash (probably other methods). There are so many people going to the DMV now for real ID so it's bad. They will pre-check documents before you sign in to avoid wasting as much time waiting in case you don't have the right stuff. read more

I just moved back from San Diego and I had to get my tags. The DMV went pretty smoothly. I liked how I can see what place I am in line and they could text me when my number was going to be called. Everything was fine until my number got called. The reason why I'm writing a review and giving it one stars is because a lady name Lisa was just rude for no reason to me. Just looking at the reviews I'm surprised they haven't let her go. She was so rude right when I approached her window. Once I greeted her she told me she wanted me to hand her all the paperwork to her in order. She said she couldn't reach the papers but she was standing up and extending her arms. So she basically wanted me to reach over the counter to hand it to her. I started to explain my situation. She closed her eyes and cut me off and asked if I had this certain paperwork. I said no. The gentleman that was helping didn't tell me to fill out a form. She treated me like if it was my fault. I had to fill out the paperwork and It probably took me about 5 min. She came over my area and yelled saying "are you finished yet or what"? In front of everyone. I felt so embarrassed. Long story short I've been to many DMV's but, this one by far has been the worst. I had to sit in my car and wonder why this lady was so nasty for no reason. I hope she finds the help that she needs. read more

Terrible service and rude employees. I got in trouble for simply standing, when I moved and stood against a wall the employee yelled at me again. Had an appointment at 11:40am and didn't get seen until 45 minutes later. Terrible place read more

Visited this location today to renew my drivers license, around noon. - there were no lines - was asked to electronically sign in/register for the renewal, at a kiosk. The process was quick and easy. After I was done registering online, I was provided a number. - my number was called in less than an hour and a half - the location wasn't crowded - the location was clean - the staff helping at the kiosks were very friendly and helpful - the staff member helping me with my renewal (specifically) was not friendly. Their demeanor was very off putting. - I was in and out within 2 hours - all in all, I was very pleased with my experience. I had left my 2 week old daughter at home with my husband and wanted to get home as soon as possible. Thanks to the prompt service and timeliness, I was able to do so. read more

Came in on a Thursday morning and was out within 20 minutes. I was shocked. Their efficiency and customer service has greatly improved. I came in to change my address, update my dl, and apply for my real id. Thought I would be there for at least an hour. Always make an appointment because I was able to skip the 20 some person line - if you can't make an appointment online then CALL (make sure you get the confirmation #). All staff members were awesome today :) Thank you!!! read more

Complaining about the DMV is like complaining about getting a bad tooth removed. Both experiences hurt but both are, at times, necessary. And bashing the DMV is like whacking a pinata: It's just too easy. This particular DMV has likely not been updated, in any way, since 1933. Or possibly, 1399. It's dingy and grungy, just like the folks waiting in line and not watching their kids practically demolish the place and/or get kidnapped. In fact, I think the same surly workers have been employed here since it opened and the same borderline sociopaths come here to get their multiple grotesque piercings and tattoos photographed for posterity. You did know you were getting your photo taken today, right? You still want to wear that "F*** The World" t-shirt for your picture? And those 50 lip, cheek and eyeball rings--you wore them especially because your photo was being taken? Ok, whatever. I gave this DMV the extra star because not all of the employees are openly hostile and if you know how to work a computer and make your appointment in advance online (which will put you ahead of about 95% of the clientele at this location), you may just get out of there in a reasonable amount of time. Still, it's a depressing experience overall but a necessary evil. Remember: We're from the Government and we're here to help you. read more

I don't have a problem at this DMV , I always get my Transaction done, I think the wait has improved, But the lady at window 21 is very rude, as if she feels forced to work, I was super nice to her, but she just plain rude, read more

Well this office certainly lives up to the stereotypical dmv nightmare. Got here 30 minutes before the doors opened. Not a single sign was posted informing the public of the rhyme or reason of the multiple lines nor did an employee ever leave the entrance of the building to inform folks, despite the fact that the line extended around the building and onto the sidewalk. Letter "G" seems to be the kiss of death since it was only called in sequence every 30-35 minutes. It was blazing hot with only 3 small canopies at the entrance to the building. Many people were unprepared for standing in the direct heat and sun. I was shocked that no one passed out from heat exhaustion. Staff seemed indifferent and quite frankly dead inside. read more

I went to the DMV today to get a CA drivers license since I moved here out of state a year ago. I always dread the DMV but since covid it seems like the wait isn't nearly as long and they got to me within 20 minutes of waiting at the most. I know it varies from day to day but they were helpful and very fast today!! I didn't get the name of the man who helped me but he was amazing, very informative and sweet as well. Thank you to everyone working throughout covid, you're all amazing!! read more

HAHAHA!!! :-D... Okay if I was a Catholic, this is another place that is like SFO without the class where you linger for hours, hours and hours wondering when someone "will pray you into" heaven. Yep...I took a vacation day because I figgered I would be in that scene of Beetlejuice where all the dead folks are sitting around and my number would be 666,666,862.... standing in line behind some guy with body odor and who is missing his head. The green chick behind the window with the bad attitude telling me to fill out 600 forms... WELLLLL I made an appointment four weeks ago..yep that was the soonest I could get in and I showed up on time. That place REALLY is like purgatory.. over crowded, people, mayhem, old ladies who stand in line asking the most RIDICULOUS of questions..."what do you mean when you say that I can't get a license due to blindness" yep, no sh*t I heard that as I walked up to the window. Long story short, I had an appointment - my total wait time: 30 mins. I just needed to renew my driver's lic. Everyone was friendly and very helpful. I feel badly now for referring to them as former WALMART Greeters. They were fast and efficient, nice attitudes which was shocking. The workers there are literally up to their elbows in a$$holes. Anyone who can maintain a good attitude at 12:00 pm is okay in my book, hence the three stars. Here is a scary thought: you have irritable bowel that day due to nervous ness and you REALLLY need to go... there is ONE toilet...I mean ONE toilet for women in the ENTIRE place. They need to knock this bugger down and rebuild it. read more

Compared to other CA DMVs I've been to, I really like this location. The times I went before COVID19, their system was pretty good and the workers are generally very easy to speak to. You'll get the occasional sense that they don't have time for you, but that's because they process so many people here, they really don't have extra time for nonsense. Do all the paperwork and forms you need before coming in and your process will be pretty smooth. Most recently during a COVID visit, yes the line was long. Yes, it was hot. Yes, some people were frustrated. But really their system for lines was quite good. I saw them help elderly and pregnant women who could not stand (in the sun) for long periods. They were able to bring out a chair for one or two people and also let a few others sit inside (once they had a number) while waiting, pending available seats and room capacity. They're dealing with a lot of things right now and I respect their work. read more

TheOLD lady at the front desk/counter giving directions/numbers is so bad , horrible attitude and the way she talks to people is so disgusting and unprofessional. I understand it's super busy and crowded but If you can't handle it why don't you hire someone else? And have her do other things (not deal with customers) for her own good.. just saying read more

For my 100th review, I'd like to compliment.....The DMV?!? Whaaat?!? Who compliments the DMV?!? This guy! That's who! First of all, this all starts by making an appointment. Call and explain what it is you'd like to do and what you need to bring and what forms you'll need to fill out. Then bring all of this on your visit. The person I spoke to on the phone was 100 times more patient and helpful than anyone I've ever encountered at the DMV. She took her time and explained all the forms I needed. She was very helpful! Because you've made an appointment, you get to walk past the line of the toothless, the braless, and worst of all - the shower less gaggle of people that are standing 20 deep or more on the sidewalk just waiting to be checked in so that they can wait for hours on end. You, on the other hand, will go right over to window 20, check in and wait 5-10 mins. I checked in and was the next number called. The place was hella busy, so this too could be you! The people who checked me in appreciated the rare communication in standard language, rather than the grunts and ebonics they seemed to be getting otherwise. They seemed shocked when I told them to have a nice day. I had to visit 3 windows, including the check in counter. Each person was polite, efficient, and I was out of there in 20 minutes. I feel like a lot of frustrations at the DMV have to do with a lack of proper planning, so do your homework and bring everything you need and the DMV will be a Sunday Drive for you! read more

This is probably my best experience dealing with any department of the government, and the only reason this was so unusualy great is one person (Patricia Raeburn ) She is very genuine kind person, she made me feel like I'm at Nordstrom or four seasons hotel. I was blown away by her kindness and her since of humor, I felt like we just found a diamond, in the most unexpected place on the planet. Congrats DMV for having some one like patricia Raeburn among your staff read more

I made an appointment for a license renewal. With the appointment it still took over an hour. I was treated unnecessarily rude by an employee after asking very simple questions. I witnessed another employee treat a fellow dmv patron so rude he simply walked back to his seat and started laughing along with his friend. This is one of the worst dmv's I've ever been back to. Unfortunately it's the closest one too me and I have to go back soon. God help me read more

I've gone to this dmv twice for my ID. And I saw and read bad reviews about Lisa. I don't know the other employees name but yes the people In the front are honestly rude and too damn demanding. I literally came here before I got my second ID. This was in 2020 around August and I lined up at least 20 mins before they close. They fucking made me wait then 5/10 mins before closing they tell me I had to come back again. I was so fuckin pissed. I also came for my ID right and they couldn't even find me in the system! How stupid can they be.. read more

Nice DMV and Nice examiner. If you want to get the driving license, you can chose this DMV. read more

I came here to try to figure out what to do in regards my Driver's license as it has been more than a month and I have not received it. It is 0100pm and they said they are just going to see 30 people approximately and then close. They are great at taking out payments but not at doing their job. read more

Useless to make appointments. I made an appointment. I got there and the line for people with appointments goes out of the building and into the sidewalk. I left and will go there another time. It's ridiculous. read more

I came to this location without an appointment. There were some shady characters hanging around the place amd was actually surprised they don't have a security guard around. BUT...I was in and out of there in an hour!! AND...the person that helped me was very pleasant I would still recommend making an appointment and not risk it. read more

I came here to take the road test at 2 PM. From the beginning, there weren't too many people waiting compared to the DMV in Clairemont, but it looked more disorganized here. Anyway, I got here a couple minutes before 2PM and I definitely recommend you come on time, because the next slot of appointments is 20 minutes after. Even though you come early or on time, you still have to wait (of course). There were a separate waiting line to take the actual road test. I ended up taking my test at 3PM. There were 3 road instructors and they not only had to evaluate the road tests, but also had to manage the line for vechile inspections -- so it's understandable why the wait was a bit long. The test itself took maybe 10 minutes and was fairly easy. After reading the reviews here, I was worried that it would be difficult because of how chaotic and busy the roads are around this area. Overall, I passed and received my license within a week. I don't think any of your road test takers should worry and just need to come on time. :) read more

We as Californians deserve so much better. We pay more than any state when it comes to driver registration fees. Where is that money going? I can see why the state recently decided to audit the DMV. Embarrising DMV office. Small, cramped,limited parking, a bathroom that many prisons (LOL) would complain about. Staff tried (hence 2 stars) but being redirected to another counter 3 times is inexcusable. Almost 2 and a half hours to take a driving test on a computer. Really. Embarassing for the amount of money we spend on driving fees. Once again we pay more than any state in the country. We deserve so much better. Will read more

Still waiting for my Real ID Driver's License to arrive in the mail. The DMV photographer assured me I would get it within TWO weeks, but it's been THREE WEEKS now and still NOTHING! Contacted both DMV and USPS multiple times and still ZILCH, NADA. Wish I could find out where it went because identity theft is a BIG problem in this area. I FROZE MY CREDIT (which is something everyone should do anyway unless they're actively trying to get credit for something - at least I found out about the credit freezing thing). Deep sorrow ensues. Praying for my Real ID Driver's License to arrive soon, unharmed. Lord, it's me... do you know what happened to my Real ID Driver's License? If so, can you please get it to me, somehow? I believe in you, Jesus. read more

DMV will always be full of people so i highly recommend getting an appointment if your service cannot be done online or thru mail. I did came here with an appointment but because of a busy day, the lady gave me a number that said "non-appt" i just realized it after 30min of standing up and noticed that the letter before my number is not being called at all. I went back to the lady and she realized that she made a mistake and apologized to me and she went to the other staff to tell him what the situation is. I was helped by the other staff so i got everything i need done, still took me less than an hour though total for everything, so it's not as bad. Just pay attention to your numbers if you have an appointment your ticket should not have a "non-appt" word printed on it :-) read more

I am well acquainted with the dmvs in the Los Angeles area. Having recently moved to San Diego, I searched for a local DMV. I arrived at around 8:30 am and waited in line for about an hour and a half. I'm currently seated, waiting for my number to be called as I write this review. To make matters worse, a few moments ago one of the employees announced that they were having issues processing license related requests....you'd think maybe someone would mention this to the poor souls lined up outside around the building. Had I been told this I would've come back a different day. However, having wasted 2.5 hours and counting, that's not looking like a favorable option. read more

DMV - This was after an hour and fifteen minute wait - Departments of Motor Vehicles Near Me - San Diego, California

I would like to say that the voice automated for the DMV Sucks!! BIG TIME! And the BOT Miles Sucks too!! Can't even get through a DMV Agent! I was on hold for 2 hours yesterday. All I need to Information on my plates and title for the used vehicle that I purchased!! Please do something about your automated message and MILES BOT! They are NOT AT ALL Helpful! It's FRUSTRATING!!!!!!!!!!!!!! read more

3.5 I'm weighing in by writing a DMV review only because the reviews helped me by answering questions I had and led me to having realistic expectations arriving without an appointment. Here's what will keep you sane. 1. Go in the afternoon around 3pm, why, because the employees are back from lunch and they are hustling to be off by 5. 2. If you don't have an appointment be realistic and patient - I studied the drivers handbook while waiting (which helped me pass the test). Bring a book. 3. Be prepared to stand, wear comfortable shoes. 4. If you are from a different state you will have to take the written test - see #2. 5. If you are white and female, God forbid attractive, the African American female security guard will be rude AF to you. Brush it off, whatever. I won't get into details but it was obvious. Minus 1 star (like they give af). I followed the above and was in and out in 2.25hrs. read more

Walked into renew my license and upgrade to the new real ID! It was Friday at around 3 PM when I arrived and I did not have an appointment I waited for about an hour and then proceeded to window 11 where Crystal M helped me! Unlike all the horror stories I have heard at the DMV she greeted me with a very big smile accommodated what I needed quickly and was super sweet to work with like I said I have heard horror stories from DMV's and she answered all my silly questions assured me my information was properly documented in the system and that my new ID would be in the mail shortly just wanna write this because she was the reason my experience at the DMV was so awesome! @neeks93 on instagram!! read more

Total time spent at DMV: 30 minutes! I'm so glad I went to this location. This is the best DMV ever...painless! My name change was easy thanks to this office. YOU MUST MAKE AN APPOINTMENT. This is imperative. You will get in and out in no time if you do this. The folks that work at the counters with the appointment customers are nice, friendly and funny. read more

I relocated back home to San Diego from the East Coast just prior to a complete lockdown in The Tri-state area. Due to COVID many SD DMV offices are closed. I Needed to get a real Id California drivers license and noted this location would be open. I filled out the application online but did not choose to upload my documents. I suggest you do so it will allow you to get in and make the process faster. I did not since I had all my original documents needed to prove identity and residency. While in line I then re- submitted the application from my phone with photos and it took 4 out 5 of my documents for some reason. I had 3 different employees checking with myself and those people in line to answer and facilitate questions. All people wore masks and spoke very professionally. I especially would like to thank Jessica for double checking my documents and online info and provided me with detailed assistance. She organized all of my documents in proper order to expedite the process. I witnessed all employees wiping and communicating to us that the pens and surfaces were clean. Glen was my assigned rep and he was very kind and efficient. Everyone was really on their game. Having lived in New York and NJ for the past 31 years it's nice to come home and have such a positive experience during such a difficult time for all of us. Thank you DMV SD of Normal St. read more

The appointment system is basically a joke. It is more like a group appointment. If you make an appointment say like at 10 am and show up on time or even 5 min early, the 930 people are still waiting in line. And you are not the only one with a 10 am appointment. There will be another 10 people with the same appointment time as you. I stood in the appointment line longer than the non appointment line people, which they alternate from. Just be prepared to wait it out. Give your self at least an extra hour on your personal schedule if you go. read more

Unfortunately they're still in businesses because is need it however service is horrible, people are rude & annoyed.

This place needs to be redone! It needs to be larger for the amount of business it does and it needs to be ADA friendly like All businesses. If they can redo some City Libraries then the city can redo this old building. A person with a power chair and a service dog had no way of maneuvering through this place, and actually ran over this elderly woman foot. Once you walk in its hell. Good luck with finding parking. read more