Procedure changes to get temporary driving permit

New measures are designed to reduce paperwork and increase efficiency.

STAFF REPORT

COLUMBUS — Beginning Monday, the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles and the Ohio State Highway Patrol will implement new measures when issuing temporary driving permits, commercial driver’s licenses and motorcycle endorsements.

Customers must visit an OSHP Driver Examination Station to take the knowledge test before purchasing a temporary packet. A temporary photo will also be taken at this time. Customers will be required to show two acceptable documents before taking the test. The acceptable-documents list can be viewed online at: bmv.ohio.gov/driver_license/aid.htm.

Results of the knowledge test will be stored electronically and will be verified at a BMV Deputy Registrar before a temporary permit or endorsement is issued. Customers will be able to purchase the temporary permit from the registrar only after successfully passing the knowledge test. The Digest of Motor Vehicle Laws is still available for pickup at registrars, examination stations or by download on bmv.ohio.gov to study for the knowledge test.

“This new procedure [is designed to] ensure that the person taking the knowledge test, skills test, and the person receiving the license are the same, and is a great example of two divisions working together to improve service and security for customers,” said Henry Guzman, director of the Ohio Department of Public Safety.

Passing the knowledge test does not guarantee that a license, temporary instruction permit or endorsement will be issued. Acceptable documents must be presented and verified at the registrar, and a corresponding photo must be taken. The new temporary permit is an all-inclusive plastic document. All documents presented, and the photo taken, at the examination station are to establish a testing record only.

Customers should note that beginning with the statewide implementation date Monday, they will not be able to purchase temporary packets from registrars until they have passed the knowledge test at the examination station. Examination stations are closed Mondays, making Tuesday the first day knowledge tests will be available.

The new procedure is being implemented after successful pilot programs in the Columbus and Toledo areas.