The Oregon Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) has announced that its Milton-Freewater office will close temporarily starting August 27 due to staffing shortages. The closure is expected to last well into 2026, with the timeline depending on future budget and staffing levels.
Currently, the Milton-Freewater DMV operates two days a week and does not provide drive tests. The office has only two employees, one of whom is retiring soon. Because of a hiring freeze linked to ongoing transportation funding issues, this position cannot be filled. The remaining employee will be reassigned to the Pendleton DMV office to help maintain consistent service there. Residents in Umatilla County can also access services at the Hermiston DMV or take Class C drive tests through a third-party provider in Milton-Freewater.
“Oregon DMV has been severely understaffed for years,” said DMV Administrator Amy Joyce. “Many positions are vacant due to our transportation funding crisis and hiring freeze. This ongoing staffing challenge causes last-minute closures of many offices with little to no warning.”
The number of staff positions allowed at the DMV has remained about the same as it was 25 years ago, despite Oregon’s population increasing by more than 800,000 people during that period.
“We’re always working on solutions and providing alternative ways for customers to complete DMV business outside of an office,” Joyce said. “Consider checking to see if you can get your service done online at DMV2U, which offers more than 20 common transactions. You can also renew or replace your registration and stickers at self-serve DMV Express Kiosks in some Fred Meyer stores around the state. Every person who completes a transaction outside a DMV frees up a spot in line at a field office.”
Some services, such as adding the REAL ID option to a license, still require an in-person visit. Customers are encouraged to make appointments online through DMV2U.oregon.gov since new appointment slots become available continuously throughout each day. Those without appointments should arrive early but should be aware that service is not guaranteed without one.
“Long wait times are frustrating for all of us, so please be kind and patient to your local DMV staff,” added Joyce.
