MARCH 29, 2005

Renewing vehicle tabs is a snap thanks to automated self-service stations now in Secretary of State PLUS offices and SUPER!Centers across Michigan, Secretary of State Terri Lynn Land announced today.

Land unveiled the self-service stations with demonstrations in Grand Rapids and Detroit. The ATM-style machines give customers the option of renewing their vehicle tabs without waiting for service at the counter. Fewer people in line also allow employees more time to assist customers who have complex transactions.

"Your time is valuable," Land said. "Don’t spend it waiting in line if you can help it. Our new self-service stations are just the ticket. A few simple steps and the swipe of a credit card get you on your way with tab in hand. Don’t wait in line – just scan, pay and go. It’s fast, easy and convenient. Give it a try; you’ll see the difference."

Customers simply follow the touch-screen directions and scan the bar code on their renewal notice. Upon verifying the information and accepting the credit card, the self-service station prints a vehicle tab and receipt for the customer. Single transactions usually can be accomplished in seconds.

To use the self-service station customers must have:

• A renewal notice with their correct name, address, vehicle information and personal identification number (PIN).
• A valid Visa, MasterCard or Discover credit card.

Self-service stations cannot be used to renew motorcycle and Gross Vehicle Weight tabs.

While simplicity is one of the self-service station’s greatest attributes, customer service specialists in each office will provide any necessary assistance.

Land said that the project would not be possible without the support and expertise of the Michigan Department of Information Technology.

"The Department of Information Technology provided us with valuable experience and support," she said. "It was a pleasure working with the agency so that our customers receive the high-quality, modern service that they deserve."

Land reminded residents that they can "skip the trip" to a branch office altogether and renew their tabs via the Internet, phone or mail. The self-service station is a great option for those who run out of time to renew by Internet, phone or mail.

Land created PLUS offices and SUPER!Centers as part of her ongoing initiative to modernize branch offices. The new facilities provide enhanced services at no extra cost to taxpayers.

They offer a variety of services and conveniences beyond those of traditional branch offices. SUPER!Center benefits include Saturday hours from 9 a.m. to noon, expanded Wednesday hours from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., and on-site services such as the opportunity for customers to purchase their own driving records. PLUS offices offer many of the same advantages except for Saturday hours.

There currently are 10 PLUS offices and two SUPER!Centers throughout the state (see below). Twenty-two PLUS offices and five SUPER!Centers are planned.

The self-service stations are the latest in a long list of technological improvements that Land has brought to the Department of State. A greater variety of Web-based services and numerous timesaving branch-office upgrades are just some of the enhancements that she has spearheaded.

Visit the department Web site at www.Michigan.gov/sos for more information about offices and services.

PHOTOS
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LIST OF SELF-SERVICE STATIONS

Detroit New Center SUPER!Center
3046 W Grand Blvd L650, Cadillac Place, Detroit

Grand Rapids Area SUPER!Center
3665 28th Street SE, Centerpointe Mall 6-B, Grand Rapids

Lansing Area PLUS
5827 W Saginaw, Delta Center, Lansing

Lapeer County PLUS
700 S Main Street, Suite 101B, Lapeer

Mecosta County PLUS
206-A N Michigan Avenue, Big Rapids

Northwest Berrien County PLUS
1960 Mall Place, Orchards Park Shopping Center, Benton Township

Northwest Detroit PLUS
20210 West 7 Mile, Detroit

Roscommon County PLUS
2565 S Gladwin Road, Prudenville

Sanilac County PLUS
277 E Sanilac, Sandusky

Southeast Berrien County PLUS
110 E Main Street, Niles

Southwest Wayne County PLUS
795 Sumpter Road, Belleville

West Wayne County PLUS
44948 Ford Road, Canton