How to contact the DMV for a special driving test: Roadshow

Q: I really enjoy your informative column. Perhaps you can help me with my problem. My husband has been diagnosed with  dementia. Twice Kaiser has sent a report to the DMV requesting them to schedule him for a driving test for medical reasons, in order to keep his license. I don’t think he should be driving.

Kaiser said the DMV would contact us to set up an appointment, but we have heard nothing. Kaiser now says I must contact the DMV, but who do I contact? I would appreciate any help in finding out who to contact. The DMV website has me befuddled and frustrated.

Linda Schlageter

A: You wrote this email a few weeks ago. I forwarded it to the DMV. Recently you wrote again.

Q: Thank you! I did get to the right department to set up the test.

Linda Schlageter

A: I’m glad you’ve reached the right person now. If others are facing a similar circumstance, the DMV’s senior ombudsman program may be able to help. For more information and phone numbers to call, visit the DMV’s website.

Q: I thought I’d send you a follow-up after renewing my over-70 driver’s license. My total time at the Alma DMV office, including circling the parking lot several times looking for a parking space, was 47 minutes. I had a 12:20 p.m. appointment and arrived early. There was no one else in the appointment line. The non-appointment line had at least 30 people waiting.

Before I arrived at the DMV, I completed the renewal forms, took the e-course and test, and paid my fees, all online. I even learned a few interesting new rules from the e-course.

After checking in at the DMV, I waited about 5 minutes, then a very nice DMV guy verified everything, I did the eye test, signed a couple of documents, and had my photo taken. I was all done, with time to spare for lunch.

The only drawback is that I didn’t get to see the photo, which I will need to live with for the foreseeable future! Isn’t technology grand?

Elaine Elliott