Local DMVs are open, by appointment only. But the pent-up demand of the past several weeks has local offices slammed, and struggling just to keep up.
"Very overwhelming. It has been nonstop," says Herkimer County Clerk, Sylvia Rowan. "I think within the first two or three days we were open we had 50 appointments."
Rowan has made moves to help handle the increased demand.
"I have three people that are on the call and I help as well. I hired two people. And it's just...it's nonstop. You hang up, you're on the phone, it rings," says Rowan. "I had three to begin with and I put two additional phone lines in."
The demand for in-person appointments has been so great, you'll be waiting months.
"So if you need to get something done by appointment, you'll be coming in in September," says Rowan.
Rowan says there is a buffer period for looming expiration dates.
"March to Sept. 30, you're in that OK zone, whether it's registration, motorcycle, a trailer, whatever it may be, or a renewal of your license, you're in a safe zone for that period."
Rowan says she and the rest of her staff understand the frustration of people calling the office, but pleads with them to understand that they're doing the best they can.
"Please be patient, keep trying, don't be rude to the girls that answer the phones. This is their job. They're doing the best they can. Keep trying to get us. I've also put my number in. 315-867-1129. Call me," said Rowan, offering her direct line. They're all in the trenches here.
