In this issue:
- DVS: Examiner recruitment allows us to better meet demand for driver's license exams
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OTS: New grant allows us to do a deep dive into distracted driving data
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HSEM: FEMA’s individual assistance program could help your family recover from flooding
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Commissioner's corner: Our new mobile-friendly website is launching this fall to better serve you
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Featured social media
 Our driver and dealer examiners are essential to making sure only qualified people receive their Minnesota driver’s license.
Think back to when you received your first driver's license — that feeling of accomplishment, looking forward to driving on your own, the excitement of completing every step to learn how to drive.
Thanks to the Minnesota Legislature, that sense of excitement will come sooner, rather than later. Due to additional funding from the legislature, Driver and Vehicle Services (DVS) is able to expand our examiner team to help meet the demand for driver's license exams.
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New positions: DVS is adding 30 new positions to our examiner team across the state.
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Other tips: DVS posts appointments on drive.mn.gov daily up to 30 days out, but they fill up very quickly. Sign up for our online subscription to get updates. Also if you can’t make it, be sure to cancel your appointment to allow others to fill that slot.
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Start a career with DVS: If someone you know is looking for a career where they can make a difference in the daily lives of Minnesotans, encourage them to give DVS a look. They can find our open positions on our Employment page or sign up for our weekly job update newsletter.
 Texting while driving can lead to serious injuries or even death.
People looking down at their phones, eating or messing with the radio while behind the wheel aren't giving their full attention to the task at hand — driving. Getting distracted behind the wheel for even a couple seconds can end with someone being seriously hurt or killed.
That's why our Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) is using a $100,000 grant from Michelin Mobility Intelligence (MMI) and the Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA) to help us determine how we can reduce distracted driving on Minnesota roads.
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How it works: The grant was awarded to OTS as a credit that covers the cost of MMI data. The agreement with MMI and GHSA gives us access to information on distracted driving, speeding and harsh braking (for example, slamming on the brakes) in Hennepin County.
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Why it matters: “The ultimate goal is to reduce fatalities and serious injuries on our roads," said OTS Director Mike Hanson. “The more information we have, the more effective our efforts to improve driver behaviors will be so we can all get home safe."
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Reducing dangerous behaviors: We plan to use MMI's analysis to identify areas that have unusually high numbers of dangerous behaviors. As we learn more, we will be able to look at the best ways to keep everyone safe on our roads, whether through targeted education efforts, law enforcement or something else.
 If your home was damaged in flooding, you could be eligible for individual assistance.
If you’re one of the thousands of Minnesota homeowners and renters affected by the flooding that hit our state between June 16 and July 4, you may be eligible for some individual disaster assistance from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).
Our Homeland Security and Emergency Management (HSEM) division is helping FEMA spread the word and organize disaster recovery centers where people can answer your questions.
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Availability: The individual assistance is available to residents in Blue Earth, Cook, Cottonwood, Faribault, Freeborn, Goodhue, Itasca, Jackson, Lake, Le Sueur, Mower, Nicollet, Nobles, Rice, Rock, St. Louis, Steele, Waseca and Watonwan counties.
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How it helps: FEMA can provide money to eligible applicants for help with serious needs, paying for a temporary place to live, home repairs and other needs not covered by insurance.
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How to apply: If you have insurance coverage, first file a claim. If you have uninsured or underinsured losses, apply for FEMA assistance by going online to DisasterAssistance.gov, downloading the FEMA app or calling the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362.
 DPS staff have been working for more than a year building a brand-new website that includes a sleek and modern design, improved content, and features that make it easier for people to find the right information quickly. Improved navigation and intuitive organization mean users will spend less time searching and more time getting the answers they need. Not only will information be easier to locate and understand, DPS’ commitment to serving all Minnesotans is reflected in the new website’s enhanced accessibility features. How? Staff have made sure the site meets or exceeds state and federal standards, so everyone can easily access the information and services they need. The new site is more than just a fresh look — it’s a tool for better communication and collaboration. Whether connecting with DPS staff or exploring public safety information, the new website makes it easier to stay informed and engaged. More details will be coming soon!
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