DMV Director Kevin Shweto discusses staffing challenges and real ID importance in South Carolina
May 01, 2025 | 2025 Legislative Meetings, South Carolina
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In a recent meeting of the South Carolina Senate, Executive Director Kevin Shweto of the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) addressed pressing issues regarding workforce challenges and the implementation of the Real ID Act. Shweto, who has served as DMV director for 15 years, highlighted the significant growth in South Carolina's population, which has increased from 4 million to 5.3 million, a 25% rise without a corresponding increase in DMV personnel or budget.
Shweto emphasized the dedication of his workforce, which is predominantly female and includes a significant percentage of African American employees. He pointed out that many of his employees are single parents struggling to make ends meet, despite a previous salary increase that has since been eroded by inflation. With a turnover rate of 33%, Shweto expressed concern about retaining skilled employees who are often lured away by higher-paying jobs.
The director also discussed the importance of training and standardizing operations across the 66 DMV locations in the state. He noted that inconsistencies in service delivery could lead to confusion among citizens and emphasized the need for a unified approach to customer service.
A significant portion of Shweto's address focused on the Real ID Act, which requires South Carolinians to obtain a Real ID to access federal facilities and board commercial flights. He urged the public to prioritize obtaining their Real IDs, as only 60% of residents currently possess one. Shweto warned that failure to comply could lead to complications for individuals traveling or accessing military installations.
In addition to these topics, Shweto criticized existing DUI laws in South Carolina, calling for reforms to address recidivism and improve public safety. He expressed frustration with legislative inaction on these issues, emphasizing the need for lawmakers to listen to the concerns of law enforcement and DMV employees.
Overall, the meeting underscored the challenges facing the DMV in South Carolina, particularly in terms of workforce retention and the implementation of critical regulations like the Real ID Act. As the state continues to grow, the DMV's ability to adapt and meet the needs of its citizens will be crucial in ensuring efficient service delivery and public safety.
Shweto emphasized the dedication of his workforce, which is predominantly female and includes a significant percentage of African American employees. He pointed out that many of his employees are single parents struggling to make ends meet, despite a previous salary increase that has since been eroded by inflation. With a turnover rate of 33%, Shweto expressed concern about retaining skilled employees who are often lured away by higher-paying jobs.
The director also discussed the importance of training and standardizing operations across the 66 DMV locations in the state. He noted that inconsistencies in service delivery could lead to confusion among citizens and emphasized the need for a unified approach to customer service.
A significant portion of Shweto's address focused on the Real ID Act, which requires South Carolinians to obtain a Real ID to access federal facilities and board commercial flights. He urged the public to prioritize obtaining their Real IDs, as only 60% of residents currently possess one. Shweto warned that failure to comply could lead to complications for individuals traveling or accessing military installations.
In addition to these topics, Shweto criticized existing DUI laws in South Carolina, calling for reforms to address recidivism and improve public safety. He expressed frustration with legislative inaction on these issues, emphasizing the need for lawmakers to listen to the concerns of law enforcement and DMV employees.
Overall, the meeting underscored the challenges facing the DMV in South Carolina, particularly in terms of workforce retention and the implementation of critical regulations like the Real ID Act. As the state continues to grow, the DMV's ability to adapt and meet the needs of its citizens will be crucial in ensuring efficient service delivery and public safety.
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