Shorter lines, perhaps? Or skip them: Oregon DMV’s driver knowledge test now offered online

(Update: Adding video, comments from DMV staff, customer, KTVZ.COM Poll)

SALEM, Ore. (KTVZ) – This may sound too good to be true: a way to skip the line at the DMV. As of Wednesday, you can now take the knowledge test for a drivers license  or permit anywhere with reliable internet. The online exam  is  also available for a motorcycle endorsement. 

"I think it would definitely help the DMV lines here," Bend resident Erin Haynes-Briggs said Thursday. "I'm waiting for hours right now. I think that the convenience of online, I definitely think a lot of people will utilize it." 

Online knowledge testing is now part of DMV’s expanding menu of online services at DMV2U. By going online, customers can take their test at a time that works best for them. No waiting in line at the office, or for appointments to become available.

DMV spokeswoman Lauren Mulligan said, "A lot of customers love doing things online. It's simple for them, and we're all about trying to make things easy and convenient as possible where we can."

DMV Administrator Amy Joyce said, “We hope customers embrace this new way to take their knowledge test. It is an easy and convenient option that we are proud to offer to Oregonians.”

The online test closely mirrors the testing screens shown in a DMV field office, so customers can expect a similar experience. There is no cost difference to use online testing.

Mulligan added, "Some people might have a hard time getting there during our office hours, or they don't have a ride to get to the DMV. These are people that don't have a license, so they have to have someone give them a ride."

Teens under 18, DMV’s largest group of testing customers, need an adult 21 years or older to supervise their test as they take it.

 Haynes-Briggs said, "I think it's great that this is an option as long as, you know, responsible adults doing it. Then, yeah, I think it's going to be successful."

The Class C (regular driver) knowledge test and motorcycle endorsement test are available online in English and Spanish. DMV plans to add additional languages in the future to serve even more customers.

After customers pass their test online, they will need to come into the office with their identity documents, and pass a vision screening. Then they will be issued a permit or be eligible to schedule a drive test, depending on their age.

“Testing online allows customers the chance to know that they have passed their exam before coming into the DMV office. This can save some people multiple trips into the office, if they don’t pass the first time,” Joyce said. “You don’t need an appointment to come in, once you pass online, but do come prepared with all the documentation you need to make sure it is a smooth visit.”

DMV says it partnered with an expert in the online testing industry, Intellectual Technologies Inc., to develop the new service. Their online testing platform is already used in other states. Proven identity verification and anti-cheating features protect the safety purpose of the knowledge test.  

Learn more about online testing at DMV2U.oregon.gov.