by Sandi Gunnett, MSP, HS-BCP, CMC
Eldercare Services Director of Clinical Operations, Certified Care Manager
Losing a beloved family member has so many emotions and tasks that thinking about Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) requirements may seem just too overwhelming. However, the DMV has some requirements that must be followed and there is a brochure that can help you to understand your requirements.
If your loved one had a handicap placard or license plate, you have 60 days to report his or her death to DMV. You must surrender both the placard and the license plate. For some seniors the prospect of trying to remove the license plate, bring it to DMV, wait in line for a new one and reinstalling that plate is just too overwhelming. The best advice is to make an appointment online.
Recent legislation in the Assembly (AB60) has created an overwhelming demand for DMV services. The DMV has responded by opening four new offices and hiring 1000 new employees. Even with that, the DMV reports that they processed 100k new applications for driver’s license in the first month after the bill was passed and over 500k applications in the first four months of 2015. Appointments are essential and don’t forget if you are really struggling try calling the ombudsman in your area
Driving without a license plate is a citable offense – so how does a senior remove that plate? The advice given by the Ombudsman was to preferably bring a family member with you to help with the removal and installation of the plate- but, if all else fails, determine what type of screwdriver you need and ask the security guard or manager of the office for some help with this task. If the office is fairly close to your mechanic, you can also ask them to install the license plate for you.
DMV Link: How To Handle the DMV Matters of a Deceased Person