Benewah DMV no longer taking out of county customers

Effective Monday, Nov. 9, the Benewah County Motor Vehicle office will no longer conduct transactions for out-of-county customers. Customers who reside in the border communities of Worley, Harrison, Medimont, Calder, Avery and Clarkia who regularly do business here will be included with the Benewah County residents for business.

“Half of my staff from the Assessor’s office has been working with the DMV for three weeks since we received new software from ITD,” said Assessor Donna Spier. "The customer count from neighboring counties is growing instead of shrinking, putting a burden on the already limited county resources. These positions are paid by Benewah County tax dollars and they need to be able to do the jobs they are hired to do.”

Benewah County customers will be able to conduct business on a first-come first-serve basis Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. through November. The office will continue to be closed on Tuesdays to deal with problems, play catch up and process dealer title work.

Another big change is that customers will need to have their paperwork ready and in hand when they come through the door or they will be turned away.

“We have always prided ourselves for having excellent customer service and have spoiled our customers,” Spier said.

The new system is very slow and customers need to do their part. This includes 1) Idaho Driver’s License or EIN (for business) or out-of-state photo ID, Social Security Number and date of birth. If processing a title — this is needed for everyone on the title. 2) Registration or Renewal Notice. And 3) Purchase documents if recently purchased — title, bill of sale, invoice/purchase order, application for certificate of title. Other paperwork is required if it is an inheritance, ownership is a result of court action, or salvage, etc. A VIN/HIN inspection is required if you do not have an Idaho title.

It is strongly encouraged that customers handle renewals online, through the mail, or by drop-off box in the hall. They are processed and mailed to customers. Renewal notices for campers and RVs went out from Boise with incorrect fees. Replacement notices are supposed to be sent with correct fees.