ALBUQUERQUE, N.M.: The State of New Mexico is expanding its installation of automated testing and payment terminals at motor vehicle offices throughout the state, according to a news release. The state recently decided to add more than 60 additional touchscreen computer terminals, based on the success of the initial deployment of more than 190 units in 2004. The systems, which are designed and manufactured by SeePoint Technology, administer driver's license knowledge tests as well as accept payments for vehicle registration and license renewals.
From these self-service terminals, applicants can take tests for the various classes of licenses as well as pay fees by credit card or check. Both a magnetic swipe and a check reader have been seamlessly and securely integrated with the terminals to facilitate the payment options. The terminals also include a barcode scanner to read the barcode on licenses and other documentation.
The automated payment and testing terminals have provided a number of benefits to the state and its residents. The self-service terminals dramatically increase the number of customers able to pay fees and take tests, thus providing more efficient service and shorter waiting times. By collecting revenue at a very low cost per transaction, the motor vehicle offices are also operating more efficiently. Moreover, the terminals allow the state to operate offices in less densely populated areas, where it would otherwise not be cost effective to do so. Additionally, the self-service testing terminals give the state more centralized control of testing, allow for easy updates and question randomization without the expense of printing new tests, increase fraud prevention and enable testing in a variety of languages.
SeePoint teamed with its Albuquerque-based partner Abba Technologies to supply and support the DMV installations.
