PennDOT Opens New Driver License Center to Improve Service to Philadelphia Area Residents; West Oak Lane Center Offers Full Range of Services

HARRISBURG, Pa., Aug. 31, 2004 -- In keeping with Pennsylvania Governor Edward G. Rendell's goal of investing in communities and improving delivery of state services, state Transportation Secretary Allen D. Biehler, P.E., today officially opened the West Oak Lane Driver License Center at 7121 Ogontz Ave. in Philadelphia.

"West Oak Lane becomes the 12th driver license facility in the Philadelphia area," Biehler said at the grand opening. "The opening of this 6,700-square-foot facility provides an additional location where our Philadelphia customers can conduct their driver licensing transactions and do so in less time."

The new driver license center offers a full range of driver license services for Philadelphia residents to obtain all driver license-related products and services. Customers can take commercial and non-commercial knowledge tests and driving tests; obtain photo driver licenses, ID cards and learner's permits; and make name and address changes to PennDOT documents.

"This full service facility is located where our customers are and where they need these vital services," Biehler said. "Providing services in communities and neighborhoods like West Oak Lane is a major part of community revitalization and future economic growth."

In November 2002, PennDOT opened the Ogontz Avenue Photo License Center that served more than 25,000 customers until its relocation to this site in June. The new site provides for combined photo and driver licensing services and is expected to serve over 70,000 customers a year.

Secretary Biehler credited Rep. Dwight Evans, other local legislators and community leaders for their interest in working with PennDOT to open this new driver license center, provide expanded services in the community and revitalize the Ogontz Avenue corridor.

Information regarding any of PennDOT's Driver License Centers can be found by visiting PennDOT's Driver and Vehicle Services Web site at http://www.dmv.state.pa.us/.