NASHVILLE (WATE) - Tennessee is using Apple iPad technology in some state driver service centers to help improve wait times for those renewing or replacing driver licenses.
The state Department of Safety and Homeland Security has installed 72 iPad kiosks, called ASSETS (automatic self-service electronic terminals), at 26 driver service centers across the state. They're primarily located in urban areas.
In the 6 News viewing area, iPads are at these service centers:
- Knox County (West Knoxville)
- Knox County (Strawberry Plains)
- Blount County (Maryville)
- Greene County (Greeneville)
Customers can use a special application installed on the iPads to quickly finish and pay using a credit or debit card. The new license should be available within minutes.
Other services available on the iPad ASSETS include the ability to change addresses on existing driver licenses and process reinstatement payments.
Officials say applicants for reinstatement must still submit the required documents to be eligible.
Customers will soon be able to use the iPads to schedule road test appointments as well.
"Reducing the wait time at driver service centers is one of our top priorities. These self-service iPad stations will cut down on the number of customers waiting for service from a driver license examiner and will help reduce the overall wait time for all customers," Commissioner Bill Gibbons said.
The iPad ASSETS cost $79,200 and were purchased to replace existing equipment that reached the end of its service life.
Officials say the iPads were ideal because of their smaller size and built-in touch screen keyboards. Also, the wireless capability makes the iPads accessible from any location in the driver service center.
Customers can use a special application installed on the iPads to quickly finish and pay.
