New BMV Kiosks Solve Two Problems: Congestion at Ohio Locations and Social Distancing

Image via Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles

Lt. Governor Jon Husted, Director of Innovate Ohio, and Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) Registrar Charlie Norman joined representatives from Meijer and Intellectual Technology, Inc. to announce the pilot launch of new BMV Express self-service kiosks to improve service for drivers in Ohio. Customers may use the new technology to conveniently renew their driver's license or identification card with little or no wait time, while also being able to conduct other business on the spot.

"We are excited about this opportunity to offer Ohioans an improved customer self-service experience, especially for those who need a driver's license or ID the most," said Lieutenant Governor Jon Husted. "The new kiosks will also help to reduce administrative costs, allowing the state to reallocate resources toward other critical BMV services and initiatives."

The four-year contract includes a total of 30 kiosks. Meijer is investing $1.3 million in the technology with the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) providing ongoing support and maintenance at no charge to the retailer.

"We are pleased to partner with the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles and our supplier, Intellectual Technology Inc., who created the solution that brings this innovative technology right into Meijer stores," said Rick Keyes, chairman, president and chief executive officer of Meijer. "This self-service option is a great example of how we continue to look for opportunities to bring value and convenience to our customers."

The new kiosks, which are available at Meijer stores in the Toledo area now through March 31, will be available across Ohio later this year. Customers can simply go online or visit a local Deputy Registrar agency to renew their license or identification card.

Customers will have the option to renew their credential or complete other, non-renewable transactions such as address changes and replacements. The kiosk will capture the customer's picture for verification purposes and then print a receipt of all transactions conducted by the machine on site.

“InnovateOhio’s goal is to change the culture of state government so that every service is designed with the customer in mind,” said Lt. Governor Husted. “The service announced today offers a convenient way for Ohioans to quickly and easily renew their vehicle registration so they can continue on with the rest of their day.”

The new kiosks are currently active at the following locations:

• Deputy Registrar, 3481 E. Broad St., Columbus, OH
• Deputy Registrar (outside of the BMV), 990 Morse Rd., Suite A, Columbus, OH
• Deputy Registrar, 972 N. Court St., Medina, OH
• Meijer, 6325 S. Gilmore Road, Fairfield, OH
• Meijer, 7150 Executive Blvd., Huber Heights, OH
• Meijer, 2200 Tiffin Ave., Findlay, OH
• Meijer, 1391 Conant St., Maumee, OH
• Riesbeck’s Food Market, 800 Howard St., Zanesville, OH
• Rhodes Tower Lobby, 30 East Broad St., Columbus, OH

When this technology hits Warren, Ohio, is still not clear.

After collecting data from the pilot, the BMV intends to expand the system to additional sites, providing customers round-the-clock access to in-person vehicle registration renewal. Customers will be able to print off their registration card and validation stickers straight from the kiosk. After evaluating results from the pilot, the BMV plans to extend the technology to additional transactions.

The new kiosk technology, designed by Intellectual Technology, is part of Governor John Kasich's efforts to streamline state government and customer service. The BMV plans to adopt additional technologies, including mobile vehicle registration renewals , as well as automated capabilities to reduce costs and improve services.

"Self-service options like this are one of many ways we are working to modernize the Ohio BMV and make it easier for customers to do business with us," Husted said. "The BMV is committed to offering services that improve the daily lives of our customers."

“The BMV is dedicated to improving the overall customer experience by providing our customers with access to innovative solutions that better meet their diverse needs,” said BMV Registrar Norman. “The BMV Express Kiosks are another important step we’re taking to give Ohioans more convenient options to choose from when they are deciding how to interact with state government.”

“In partnering with the BMV, it is evident that there is exceptional focus on innovations that redefine delivery of services to the citizens,” said Intellectual Technology Inc. Chief Growth Officer Frank Amoruso. “It’s clearly all about the citizens’ experience and we look forward to continuing on this journey with the BMV.”

Image via the Office of Lt. Governor Jon Husted

“As we have seen previously with the rollout of this technology across Michigan, these kiosks provide a great opportunity for our customers to enjoy another level of one-stop shopping while also saving more time during their busy days,” said Vik Srinivasan, senior vice president of properties and real estate for Meijer. The new kiosk locations were chosen based on where demand has been highest, with consideration given to convenience, location and cost.

Customers are being encouraged to visit BMV.Ohio.gov or call 1-888-SOS-BMV before visiting a Deputy Registrar location so they can determine which location is most convenient for them before going out of their way to conduct business with the state agency.