Kearns Announces NYS DMV to Temporarily Suspend Services in February as New, Modernized System Launches
Erie County Clerk Michael P. Kearns announced the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) is preparing to launch the first phase of a new, modernized technology system designed to improve customer service and streamline operations for both residents and DMV staff in February.
To complete this major upgrade, all DMV offices—including those serving Erie County—will temporarily suspend operations over the Presidents’ Day weekend. ary 13 at 12:00 p.m., all in-person DMV offices will close, and online and phone services will be unavailable statewide. This brief shutdown is necessary to safely install and test the new system before it goes live.
DMV services, both in person and online, are expected to fully resume on Wednesday, February 18. To ensure a smooth transition, appointments will be required for all in person visits from February 18 through February 20 at all Erie County Auto Bureau Branch Offices. Mobile DMV services in Grand Island and Con cord will remain suspend ed during this period and are expected to resume the following week.
The upgraded system replaces decades-old technology with a single, secure platform that allows DMV employees to process transactions more efficiently, reduc ing delays and helping customers complete most transactions in one visit. The new platform will also expand online ser vices, allowing residents to complete more DMV transactions from home, on their own schedule.
NYS DMV officials note that while staff have undergone extensive training, customers may experience minor delays in the days immediately following the launch and are asked for patience as everyone adjusts to the new system.
Erie County residents who need to renew a driver license or non-driver ID, or complete another DMV transaction before February 13, are strongly encouraged to do so ahead of time. As always, appointments are encouraged, as customers with reservations take precedence. Appointments can be made 24/7 online at erie.gov/clerk or by calling the Clerk’s Outreach Center (Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm and on Thurs days until 7pm) at 716 858-8864.
Residents can also stay informed by following the Erie County Clerk on social media (X, Face book, and Instagram) for real-time updates before and after services resume, as well as the Clerk’s website at erie.gov/clerk.
This February upgrade builds on recent improve ments such as expanded online services, appoint ment-based office visits, and reduced wait times. A second major system upgrade is planned for 2028 as part of the DMV’s long-term effort to mod ernize operations and improve customer experi ence. Erie and Niagara County Clerks will team up for a February press conference to share key details ahead of the imple mentation, keeping the public informed.