Last April, the North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles opened up a brand new, two-story facility in Charlotte.

Gone are the lengthy documents of old. The pen and paper replaced with new, state-of-the-art computer systems that expedite an outdated and drawn-out process

It’s the first step towards Governor Pat McCrory’s goal of fixing the entire system. Here in Beaufort County, it’s become marginally easier to acquire a license, but it’s still a work in progress.

To simply obtain an identification card, out-of-state drivers must have proof of insurance, something most other states only ask for only when registering a vehicle. It forces younger, out-of-state drivers who need to stay on their parents plan for monetary reasons to purchase their own policies. USAA Auto Insurance considers it one of the strictest states in that regard. The laws for not registering a vehicle within 60 days of establishing a permanent residence are also some of the strictest and most heavily enforced.

On the other hand, computer systems installed at the DMV in Washington don’t require those with valid out-of-state licenses to retake their test. They simply have to identify four or five common street signs and their purpose.

And the written portion of the driving test for those who need to retake it? Most of it is now done on a computer.

DMVs in general have a reputation for long wait times, rude service and inconveniencing customers.

Hopefully, McCrory will continue to address and improve the state’s DMVs, eliminating their negative reputation once and for all. By doing so, patrons will approach the facility with a different attitude, which will only help employees in the long run.