I wish I would have caught the woman's name, but I had the best interaction with the kindest woman at the El Cajon DMV on a Friday afternoon (4/11/25) Let me paint a picture, it was Friday around 3pm... the line was wrapped around the door just to check in and this angel of a human at window 12 was nothing short of amazing. I had no idea that getting married before getting my California license many years ago was going to complicate getting my REAL ID, but she worked her magic and made it happen... all with a smile on her face!!! I'm literally kicking myself for not getting her name, but she was the wonderful woman at window 12! I appreciate you and pray God blesses you in every aspect of your life read more

Filled out everything online, submitted all documents for my son's permit. Waited 2 months and had to drive 45min away for the soonest appointment. 1) Received a text to click on a link to check in 10 minutes before our appointment time and the link is broken/unusable. 2) Got there and scanned the QR code, expecting to be seen in 15-20ish minutes because we were "Express" (having everything done online ahead of time, and approved, and had an appt time). WAITED OVER AN HOUR. What's the point of "Express" then? 3) I have a screenshot of our online process that says they take electronic copies of proof of residency, printed is not required but is suggested. Finally get called to the windows and the worker says we are REQUIRED to have printed copies. I show her my screenshot and she says, "I need to scan it." I asked her what was the point of submitting the documentation online then? She had no answer, just stared at me. I explained AGAIN and said the DMV website states that proof of residency will be accepted in electronic form, printed ISNT required but is suggested. She stared at us again, long pause, "I need to have the physical paper to scan." I asked again, why don't they have it already if I had to pre-submit it and it was approved. Again, no answer and long stare. 4)I stared back, waiting for direction, and nothing. I asked what we do next and she said "I don't know, I need the paper." I asked if there was anywhere nearby I could print out copies and she says "I don't know." Then I asked what we do when we have them printed and she said, "Get in line agan." Clearly, NOT HELPFUL and had no intention of being helpful, she just started chatting with her coworker nearby about nothing related, NOT A QUALITY EMPLOYEE. *the ONLY good thing I have to report is that the facility was very clean and organized well. read more

Because I live in La Mesa, when I need to visit an office of the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), it is usually at this branch, located on Graves Avenue, in the City of El Cajon. The access to the facility is quite easy, from either the 8 Freeway, or the 67 Freeway. Both of these freeways are very close by. There is a waiting line for those who have appointments (made online prior to your visit), or for those who do not have appointments, where you can just show up at the DMV. Both of these two lines move quickly and efficiantly. On my most recent visit to the DMV, I did not have an appointmnet. Nonetheless, I was in and out of the facility in under one hour. I think that is quite good, and it reflects on how well the DMV facility is managed ! All of the staff at the many windows is kind. read more

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The people the process the wait the atitudes the pathetic laws.. The regulations.. It's all stupid and this state disgusts me as much as the people that work here. They all need to learn to be less ignorant and treat everyone with an issue.. With a bit more compassion read more

Hispanic women at window 1 & 2 are super rude they need to be fired! Told me I needed interlock device in my car for a year to keep my license, so I did and paid over $3000 dollars to have it for a full year and when it was time to take it out they said I was never required to have it at all! A waste of time money and problems! Then they argued with me about the situation and I was talking to one lady and the other felt free to engage in my business with a attitude and I was very calm and polite The Who time they just didn't want to take accountability! read more

Not sure what happened today, as the experience was the complete opposite of when I came into to renew my drivers license. Came in to see about having late fees reversed on my vehicle registration (as if the state of CA didn't already screw us enough in a million different ways). Dad was admitted into the hospital at the end of July, died beggining of Dec. I'm an only child so was busy caretaking for my mom as well as handling all of the hospital/nursing facility headaches. I've been trying to keep track of bills for both households, as well as missing a lot of work. (No siblings, just me.) Registration was just one of many things that slipped through the cracks. From the get go, I'm in the non-appt line, but the worker checking in those with appts keeps yelling (in a very condescending and unprofessional manner) to those in the appt line, "If you don't have an appt within 10 minutes, you need to get out of line and wait until it's 10 minutes until your appt time." (Hey DMV, maybe get your workers a proper PA system so that your employees aren't forced to yell past their window.) While I can understand the frustration of people not hearing you, it really just sounded like this woman hated her job. Then it was my turn. I had already printed the "Statement of Fact" form the night before and proceeded to fill it out while waiting except that none of the sections pertained to my situation. It wasn't a transfer of title or any of the other sections listed. Apparently, I was supposed to just jump to the last section and write why I was requesting a fee reversal. The rep, Claudia Carillo Rodriguez, was short and rude from the get go. Completely unpleasant. (Why does the DMV insist on hiring people who would be better suited in jobs in back offices pushing paperwork & far away from people? Do you not require basic decent customer service skills? Aside from getting testy with me because I didn't complete the form, when I told her the reasoning and asked if she needed my dad's death certificate (which the website stated I might need), not only did she not provide any condolences or acknowledgment of what I just stated, she flat out ignored me, didn't answer my queation. (The younger girl checking in the non-appt line didn't acknowledge it either.) Then on top of it all, I had to pay a fee transaction for using my debit card. I shouldn't be surprised that the state of CA would charge for that too but no charge for check? Yeah ok. I only paid it because I forgot my checkbook and usually I bring it. She was a snot when I asked about that too. I used to make it a point to go to another DMV intentionally because of crap service here but I thought maybe service had gotten better since my drivers license renewal was a breeze. Yeah, I was wrong. This DMV still sucks and the only person I encountered who was genuinely nice was the security guard upon entering and leaving. Everyone else (three people) seemed miserable and seemed to want take it out on everyone else. Oh one other thing that seems questionable to me. I was forced to write "I understand that this fee reversal is a one time exemption." Screw you, El Cajon DMV and your complete lack of sympathy. May your employees receive the same service I received when one of their parents pass. There is no option for ZERO stars but if there was... read more

I had to renew my driver's license. I made my appointment online and gathered the necessary documents. I showed up early to my appointment and was greeted nicely at the check-in table. I was asked to sit and wait for them to call my number. No sooner than I sat down, my number was called to a window where I met a nice lady. She helped me with the process, took a vision test, paid my fee, and signed for my new license. After I was done, I was asked to get in line for my picture. This line went quick too given there was only one person in front of me. The lady at this station was not as friendly as the two previous ones, but friendly enough to complete my visit without a hitch. I do recommend making an appointment online and having your documents in order. Things go much smoother. read more

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I have been in the d m.V several times to pick up a driver's book for my grandchild. I'm pretty sure all the signs on the road are all in english. Can anybody explain to me why there's 15 different languages there? Full of books and not one in english. It's not just one time .I've been there four times looking for it in english. read more

First of all, make an appointment! Again make an appointment!! I'm so glad I did because it is always crowded every time I come here. Without an appointment, my wait is much longer and remember, your time is valuable! I had to renew my DL for this visit and take an eye test and new photo. With an appointment, I bypassed the other long line that was out the door and got myself a number. I waited until my number was called and from there the process was all quick!! One more thing, make sure you read what is needed for your issue (ex: birth certificate) so there is no delay too!! read more

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This is a place everyone dreads going to. In the past parking has been a nightmare, lines just to get started were horrendous and the workers were super hurried and unfriendly. I so dreaded heading there today. To my surprise, the parking lot was fairly empty, zero line to get started and my number was called within 5 minutes. The workers I encountered were very friendly and helpful. I was in and out with my new real ID within 10 minutes. Awesome experience! read more

I needed to renew my driver's license and made an appointment here since online it shows one of the lowest average wait times in the area. Highly recommend making an appointment because I had only two people in front of me but the walk-in line was out the door. I waited maybe 5 minutes to get my number, and it was called before I even had time to sit down. I had all of my documents ready and the lady at the window took care of the whole thing in only a few minutes. I was sent to get my picture taken and only waited a few minutes there as well. I was in and out of the whole thing in 20 minutes. I've never had a better DMV experience in my life! read more

I received a notice from the DMV that I needed to go into the office to renew my license. I needed to take the eye test. I passed! My appointment was for 1:20, I had completed everything, and was on the way to my car by 1:35! I couldn't believe it. It was one of the best DMV experiences of my life. And, I know how weird that sounds to say. However, I got there way too early. You can only check in 10 minutes prior. It seemed like they were really churning people out. Make an appointment, or use the Self-Check In function on your phone, and I think you could have a much better experience too. read more

Michelle was very helpful. Got me out of there quick. She even went a little bit into her lunch break to help me get my stuff done which i greatly appreciated read more

DMV - Michelle - Departments of Motor Vehicles Near Me - El Cajon, California

Hilda is awesome..incredible helpful employee.. Super knowledgable and efficient :) :) read more

I wish I would've caught the worker's name, because she was the rudest, most dismissive person I've ever had the displeasure of speaking to, and her superiors need to know. I arrived at opening, and went in with a plan to just be as detailed as possible and lay out my issue. I'm going through a sorta complicated process of trying to transfer ownership of and eventually register my brother's (who recently passed away) out-of-state car here in CA. So at this point, I really just have the question/need direction of the right way to start making the transfer. I've talked to CA DMV before, called Ohio DMV, and spoken to probate lawyers in both states, but still haven't received any clear answers. I have all of the necessary paperwork, and ensured that the car passed a smog check. I knew we were off to a rough start when she asked "Did he have a will, or any assets set to go through probate?" I said "He did not", and she immediately responded with "It's a 'yes or no' question!" She proceeded to talk down to me and talk over me the entire time. In fact, I barely remember being able to say anything else. She didn't seem like she wanted to give helpful direction. Just berate. I've never felt so insulted in my life. DMV opened at 9am. This interaction was probably around 9:15. I was out of there before 9:30. SHE SET OUT TO BREAK PEOPLE'S SPIRITS TODAY. I sincerely hope I never have to encounter her again. read more

I visited El Cajon DMV yesterday. I was told I needed an extra verification that I went and got. I came back in the timeframe the DMV employee told me and he said I didn't need a new number. I waited until closing time and then they told me he was wrong and to come back tomorrow. I wasn't the only one. One man waited 6 hours and was turned away!!! What a waste of time!!! No wonder they have such a bad reputation. They could have served those that had been waiting, but no the supervisor was unfeeling and said to return tomorrow at 7 am. I don't plan to spend another day there waiting to not be helped!! I don't recommend going without an appointment, though there are not appointments until the middle of July - a month and a half away!! They need to fix their system!! read more

I got in line to get my number at 08:45 and received it at 09:10. I sat down and saw the last B number called was B027 my number is B044. It is now 10:00 and not a single B has been called. Updated 10:01 B028 called read more

Horrible experience with a short, mid 40's Hispanic manager at this location. Background: I was there at 7:00AM on May 30th, 2025 to address a title replacement / re-ordering. I waited 2 hours for walk in to get my car title. I believe I was number B004, or B009. I paid my car off 2 months ago and received confirmation from the bank that my loan release was received by the DMV. I have been kicked around by numerous DMV employees online, over the phone, and now in person, being pointed in different directions to get my title. The DMV has an issue in their system with a prior started application for registration renewal, and is not allowing me to order my title because the DMV is seeming to try to hold my title hostage for past due registration fees (of which were already taken from my taxes). The system issue confused the associate at the counter and so she called over the shorter stocky mexican female manager who wore glasses, at around 9:00AM on May 30th. The associate at the counter was nice, a younger girl. But the manager she called over became argumentative and combative for no reason, and sent me away with nothing and no information after I spent 2 hours of time and called off work to be there. She seemed to be having a bad day, was ready to argue and fight with people, and was arguing with me about nothing for no reason, before turning to her computer and ignoring me while I asked if I needed anything. I was later informed by other DMV employees that this manager should have done more, and should have informed me and helped me. I wish I got her name, but please review video, find her, and reprimand her. It is not my problem she is tired of dealing with people. She essentially denied me service. This has costed me tons of time that I do not have, and confusion, because she picked up a personal issue with her own confusion over my title. read more

This review is regarding calling the DMV's El Cajon office. Why can't we ever talk to a human being? It would take me one minute of someones time to answer my question but instead I have 10 minutes with Miles the AI with no answer to my question. I understand some questions are easily addressed through automation but not all. I visited the DMV last week. The lady at the counter asked for my license (not sure why she needed it in the first place my visit had nothing to do with my license or registration) and when I was all done she forgot to give it back and I forgot I gave it to her. All I want is for them to drop it in the mail to me so I don't have to go all the way back to the DMV. I would have thought they would have done that in the first place but nope. They are just holding on to it so I need to take time off and go back to the DMV to pick it up. Frustrating. Update: I finally got to speak with a person. There is no way to speak with someone in any dmv office directly. It goes to a call center. Apparently the DMV policy is to throw away anything left at the dmv after 3 days and now I have to purchase a new license. I asked why they don't mail it and they said there is no way to verify the address. Ok, how about the title I was at the dmv for? You mailed that to my 'unverified' address. What about my registration? Same address. You mailed that as well. If I recall you mailed my original license to me in the first place. Unbelievable. read more

Had an appointment at the El Cajon DMV to get my Real ID. My appointment was on a Monday at 9:20 AM. I arrived at around 9:10 and there was almost no line on the appointment side and surprisingly not much of a line on the no appointment side. I checked in and took a seat. I received at text with my number and my place in line - I was 3rd. Within minutes my name was called to go to Window 10 I had already uploaded all of my documents and completed the application online so that greatly sped up the process. The gal at the window checked my document hardcopies against the ones I had uploaded to ensure that they were the same. Once all of the boxes were checked she sent me to the line to have my picture taken and she instructed me to return to Window 10 after my picture was taken. My only problem was that when I returned to Window 10 there was someone already there conducting business. I sat down to wait for them to move on. The gal at Window 10 noticed me sitting there and called me up. She handed my paperwork to me and off I went. In at 9:10 out at 9:35. The DMV has vastly improved, even though they still charge a fee to use a debit card. read more

Digital communication New password module is hung up forever... It's a simple replace of lost Real ID It's not an act of congress. The system gets hung up in the phone verification process it should not take more than 25 minutes!!' read more

This is one of the fastest dmv's relatively and I always get work done here. One thing that caught my attention is that this dmv is not so accommodating to the high Arab population in the area and of the languages offered for the various applications, there is no Arabic option. There is Chinese and different types of Thai and Asian languages. I watched a family of immigrants struggle trying to translate an application and no Arabic option was offered not a translator. They were left alone without help and the kids who spoke well English were translating, instead of professional staff. This dmv can do better and assist the majority of population in the area by providing translation in Arabic to be inclusive and nondiscriminatory. read more

I just wanted to update the picture on my license - get it retaken today. I waited in line for almost an hour because I didn't have an appointment, no big. However, once I got to the window to find out what I needed to do, I was told by this very disrespectful, impatient, rude woman that since I didn't submit an application first, I was then going to have go to "Window A" and wait about 2 hours to get this done. I had no idea that just wanting to get a picture retaken would be such an ordeal, did not know that I had to fill out an application. I'm a senior and didn't appreciate the MAJOR attitude and being spoken to like a complete idiot. She did not explain anything to me. Will NEVER go to the El Cajon DMV ever again. read more

Wait in line to get a number. Wait for 2 hours for a 2 minute transaction to replace a stolen Handicap card that was in my stolen car. They are so busy. Maybe a job from hell because they are rude customer service. read more

Many have an aversion to the DMV, but all of my many years of utilizing the service, have been very good!! The lines can be overwhelming, but that's due to the need for what they offer, not due to the employees that serve us. Plan a head and make an appointment, but know they become easily swamped and know to book an appointment very, very early (2-3 months!). For my renewal, they were booked months ahead, so I had to do a drive by and take my chances! I went early, actually over an hour early by accident and wasn't necessary to be there that early. On Wednesdays they open an hour later and I had thought they opened an hour earlier, but it worked out well and I was near the front of the line. When they opened, I noticed that If you have an appointment, let someone know and you won't have to stand in the long line (for the Graves/El Cajon office), they'll put you up front. They actually had a person go through the line and ask if anyone had an appointment. Do a search for your area, because I found out that Wednesdays were better and to go early. I was done in an hour after getting in!! Some of the personalities there can be a bit dry, but for the most part, almost all of my experiences have been very calm and pleasant, especially if you come prepared and have a good attitude. read more

My wife took my son here to get his permit. The employees working there are so rude. My wife witnessed them being extremely rude to the elderly. They also would not accept one of our bills to our resident even though it was a propane bill that was to our address and that's how we get our gas. They also treated our son disrespectfully and rude and he was just getting his permit and that should be an exciting time for kids. I would not send elderly people to them without someone to help since these people are so unkind and disrespectful. My wife witnessed them yelling at the elderly because they couldn't figure out the computer test. read more

In all honesty, I was dreading coming to the DMV. But I made an appointment, and I showed up on time, and within 5 minutes of getting there, I was called to a window, and the person working was an absolute doll. She explained the process to me and handled my situation with all the grace. So I want to send a shout out to her! (I don't remember her name but her work station was pink and had hello kitty on it-girl, you're the best! Thank you for your help) read more

Went there with my boyfriend who was helping translate things to his dad. The worker ended up speaking to my boyfriend like he was stupid, extremely condescendingly, over enunciating words slowly like how you would with a toddler. Rolled his eyes in our faces every time we had to ask a question or when something had to be translated. We weren't being difficult, we know the DMV is a hellish place, but there's no good reason to speak to someone that way. My bf has no accent and english is his first language, so it was hard to believe how blatantly rude the employee was being. He was wearing a winnie the pooh covid mask. read more

Wait is long in the morning as to be expected, and as mundane as it was to wait for my appt to come up, I didn't have a good customer service experience. It would be helpful if these employees were trained in learning how to clearly communicate and basic customer service skills. read more

Fastest service yet. You complete your paperwork online. If you do this step, you'll be in & out of the DMV. I went on a Thursday around 10am. I was out in about 25-30 mins. read more

Recently moved to California, needed a new drivers license submitted my documents prior, had an appointment, came in took my photo and got in and out within 20 minutes. My best dmv experience I've ever had honestly. The lady on the counter right next to the door was super helpful as well as the person taking my picture. I'll definitely favorite this dmv if I need anything else. read more

Positive experience first time at this location. Easy online appointment set up. Came on a Friday about 15 mins before my scheduled time. No issue with parking. Lots available. Skipped the line of about 20 people since there was no one waiting in the appointment line. Sat down and appreciated the Arabic translation on the screen. Three called numbers in my number came up. Paid for my renewal. Only one person ahead of me to snap a pic. Then I was out the door. By the time I got in my car it was my actual appointment time. I was in and out of the DMV in record time. Unheard of typically at a DMV. Also, the staff here are actually nice and they don't bark at you which was a pleasant surprise. They got a fast and efficient system here to get through the people who come here. Also when I was walking out the door I looked over at the entrance line and there was no one waiting. That worker issued the line of about 20 a number in less than 10 mins. Way to go. Mel M Yelp 22:33 read more

Someone needs to look into how this instructor is speaking and treating the individuals who are coming here for their driver's test. His demeanor was very hostile from pre-inspection. For what reason? No greeting or name introduction, it seemed the instructor already had the intention to fail the driver. read more

DMV - Driver instructor - Departments of Motor Vehicles Near Me - El Cajon, California

My experience was a good one,I got in fast and was taken care of in a timely fashion.Lewis was friendly professional and understanding. Lewis really helped me out today and I appreciate that a lot. Thank you again Lewis, Amanda Ide-galli read more

The employees were friendly polo and professional. I am waiting for hip replacement and in a lot of pain these people were such a blessing to me. I had a wonderful experience at this office. I appreciate all the employees that helped me today, they were awesome. read more

Wow...if your 16 year old is taking the driving test be prepared to wait for over an hour...in the line outside in your car. It's awful and they literally "ice" your kid. Appointments are necessary but don't count b/c the DMV DOES NOT CARE about your time. read more

DMV - People waiting for hours to take their driving test. - Departments of Motor Vehicles Near Me - El Cajon, California

Girl Sammy at the window was rude as anything. Had horrible additude. I downloaded all documentation online as requested to get real ID, and she said that wasn't good enough. I have to bring them in person. So why download? I ask. She's like not my problem. Your not getting real ID. If employees are not having a good day they need to take a sick day and not push their hate and discontent on customers. read more

Hello El Cajon DMV again. Two years later and another 5 stars. I had to renew my license & take a written test. I made an on-line appointment and had all my paperwork needed to make the process go smoother. I arrived early and was home by the time my appointment was scheduled for. I actually have to say the employees that I encountered were very helpful and showed a lot of patience. read more

From the minute I walked in the door I was greeted with a smile and helpful information. As I sat waiting for my turn I noticed the employees were smiling and happy. They were very polite in helping their customers. When my number was called I went to window three or four where an older gentleman greeted me with a smile and asked how he could help me. As I renewed my CDL I explained to him I had been at the normal street DMV the day before which was a bad experience . After waiting for an hour and a half they told me they couldn't renew my CDL. When I went over to get my picture taken the lady was nice smiled and to talk to me a bit about the fact we both shared the same name. It really makes a difference when someone enjoys their job how they interact with the public. I will do anything to avoid the commercial DMV as they are rude and impatient. The Graves Street DMV employees are doing a great job, thank you. read more

I haven't been in to a DMV office in years as everything I've ever needed I did in line. Besides, you hear all the horror stories of slow service and bad attitudes of the workers. Have you seen the Disney cartoon Zootopia? Why do you think the DMV clerk was characterized as a sloths? News Alert! I had to go because they wanted to see me and take a new photo, pretty standard to schedule appointment on my computer. I arrived at the El Cajon DMV Office early as my appointment was 2:10pm. I thought this would be amazing if that happened on time - but they checked me in & within minutes - I'm in front of a clerk. Very pleasant lady, handed her my paperwork and after a few question I was told I didn't finish the on line application? Oh oh, confused and she told me to go use one of their computers and complete my registration and immediately come back to her! That's pretty impressive! Did the standard eye test, paid my fees and was pointed to the direction where they take a current photo (and that lady was pleasant as well!) Side note; both asked me about doing my California ID Drivers License that has the gold bear & star in it. Wish I had known it was going to be a breeze & I would have!! I'm scheduling another appointment and going back and I'll bet I receive the same excellent service. 5 Star Service read more