Audit Urges Permanent Hires for NC DMV Shortages

A preliminary audit by North Carolina State Auditor Dave Boliek finds the North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles (NCDMV) is facing long wait times, service delays, and challenges in booking appointments due to insufficient staffing and high reliance on temporary positions. Many temporary examiner roles remain vacant, offer fewer benefits, and suffer from high turnover, worsening the workforce shortage. The audit recommends hiring more permanent driver license examiners and increasing flexibility in personnel rules to improve hiring and retention. Lawmakers are negotiating the state budget, with differing proposals from the House and Senate on how many new DMV positions to fund. Without substantial action, the audit warns that excessive wait times and repeated visits will persist for residents. The full audit report is pending, but preliminary findings have been shared with legislative leaders and the governor.