New Hampshire DMV Adds New Translation Devices, Expanding Language Services for Customers

Photo byRyoji IwataonUnsplash

CONCORD, N.H. – The Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) within the New Hampshire Department of Safety has announced the acquisition of 20 new handheld language translation and interpretation devices to enhance the testing and transactional experience for customers requiring additional language assistance.

The devices, capable of translating more than 80 languages, will significantly improve access to DMV services, including obtaining a New Hampshire driver’s license, non-driver identification card, road skills test, and other in-person transactions. They can also assist customers who are hard of hearing, deaf, have low vision, or are blind.

This advanced technology allows DMV employees to communicate effectively with customers seeking language translation assistance. By speaking into the device, the message is audibly translated into the selected language and appears in written form on the device’s screen. Additionally, the device’s camera can translate text and written words.

“Just last year, our dedicated employees, many of whom are bilingual, successfully helped more than 3,600 customers who did not speak English as their primary language during DMV transactions,” said DMV Director John Marasco. “The use of this new technology is already improving the customer experience and has enhanced safety during road examinations by allowing for real-time translation. Effective translation has already taken place during driving tests in languages such as Vietnamese, Spanish, Turkish, and Haitian-Creole, which has had an impact on overall safety for both our customers and DMV employees.”

The translation devices are available at all full-time DMV locations throughout the state, and customers can request translation assistance upon arrival at a DMV office.