News Release Archive

BUSINESS/CONSUMER SERVICES--DRIVER'S LICENCE RENEWALS
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Renewing your driver's licence will get a little easier starting
May 1, Business and Consumer Services Minister Don Downe
announced today.

Driver's licences currently expire at the end of the month of the
driver's birthday. Starting May 1, licences will expire on the
birthday itself. For example, a driver with a birthday of August
15 currently must renew his or her licence by August 31. Under
the new system the driver must renew by August 15.

"This change will result in better service to drivers because it
will distribute the deadline for renewal throughout the month,
and alleviate the lineups that occur at the Registry of Motor
Vehicles at the end of each month," Mr. Downe said.

"This is the first of many service improvements the new
Department of Business and Consumer Services will be
implementing," Mr. Downe said. "Our goal is to make it as easy as
possible for Nova Scotians to get licences and permits they need
to get on with their business and personal affairs."

The 16,500 drivers who have birthdays in May have already been
sent renewal notices informing them of the change. Because the
Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV) now issues a photo licence,
renewals must be made in person at any of the 13 RMV offices
across Nova Scotia. Licences are valid for five years and can be
paid with cash, cheque or money order.

The 13 RMV offices are open 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., Monday and
Tuesday, and 8:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. Wednesday to Friday. Drivers
should call 1-800-898-7668 to find out where their nearest RMV
office is located.

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Contact: David MacNeil  902-424-7487

trp                      Apr. 19, 1996 - 11:23 a.m.