Things to know:
DMV Newark is known as a 'regional' DMV, it can do things that other DMV's can't and vice versa.
Before visiting ensure they can provide the services you need.
*As far as I understand, you do not make a reservations for this location, you can just walk in.
*As far as just walking in...they have a pretty strict policy of not waiting inside so if it's raining, tornado, snow storm - you may be waiting outside, especially if you are there for a knowledge test. Dress appropriately.
Process for getting in line:
Don't get on any lines that may have formed outside, at times you may see two lines.
Go through the main doors, there will probably be a security person, someone handling the door and who is coming in/out and a women seated at a small desk in the middle of the lobby behind some low plexiglass.
This is an Agent - speak to them.
The Agent will route you to offices to the right, left or to wait outside on a line.
The Agent routed me to the office on the right to a specific window.
This next person is the Oracle, they will
ask for your cell number,
-send you a text message and
confirm you receive your instructions via text message
TIP - ensure your cell battery is Charged!! No text - no appointments but I would imagine they have a non cell backup plan but don't really know for sure.
The Oracles' text message will tell you when you will be able to meet with the Keymaker, your last step in this journey.
I found this text based appointment system to be VERY helpful. I received four automatic messages to let me know the line was advancing and when to come back to the area or inside.
If you have a car, I would say that you could drive to grab a coffee somewhere and wait until you receive instructions which will tell you to make your way back to the Newark DMV.
I received my second set of instructions via the text based system and it told me to 'come in with your paperwork.' I proceeded to walk back into the main doors and was intercepted by another agent who told me I had to continue to wait outside for my next set of instructions even though the text told me to come inside.
You will only be allowed in when the Oracle sends you a message that says it is now your turn.
This last set of instructions will tell you which window the Keymaker is waiting for you.
The Keymaker will also want to visually see your text message from the Oracle with your appointment number on it.
Once all this is out of the way, you may speak to the Keymaker and resolve your issue with the DMV Newark. This process typically begins with the Keymaker asking you for your driver's license to ensure you are who you say you are.
Fairly large parking lot is split between parking and drivers tests.
No outside shelter except for a small cab//bus shelter inside the DMV Newark parking lot.
Lot is completely fenced in, no recognizable neighboring shops but there is a diner across the street called the Ideal Diner which is open during DMV hours if you are really stuck there for a while.
DMV Newark does have a bathroom located in the offices on the left side, you will need to ask for access from one of the agents in the lobby.
My total time at DMV Newark was probably about 55 minutes which I thought was pretty good.
I received my instructions from the Oracle at exactly 12:01pm and my ticket to see the Keymaker was exactly 12:48.
After meeting with the Keymaker they had me out of DMV Newark in probably 7-10 minutes.
Considering noon is probably the busiest time for DMV Newark, I thought this was pretty good service.
Like all things, everything that has a beginning, has an end.
I will summarize by saying everyone was very helpful at DMV Newark. Don't be overwhelmed by the lines, or the location. I think they have their process and everyone there is working hard to keep the line moving.
This trip has me less stressed should I ever go to this location again...
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