JUNE 29, 2009

Credit card payments, less paperwork among the benefits

Secretary of State Terri Lynn Land today announced that certified auto mechanics regulated by her agency now have the convenient option of renewing their annual licenses online.

The Department of State's online mechanics license renewal project is the latest advancement in Land's nonstop drive to provide modern, cost-effective services that save time for customers.

"Our goal is service that is convenient as well as high quality," Land said. "By providing mechanics with the option of renewing their licenses online, we save them time and money while delivering first-rate service. Online license renewal is more efficient for our department, too. Using more technology means less paperwork, which results in greater efficiencies and less human error when processing applications. We're excited about this next step in our customer service revolution and look forward to announcing additional innovations."

The online service allows those seeking renewals to avoid filling out a paper application and mailing it to the department along with a payment check. Instead, program users simply enter basic information to the onscreen forms and pay with Visa or MasterCard. Users receive a confirmation e-mail from the department within 24 hours.

Accessing the program is easy. Just go to the department Web site at www.Michigan.gov/sos and click on the "Automotive-related Businesses" and "Information for Mechanics" links.

The program is not available to applicants who are seeking first-time licenses or to those whose licenses have been expired for more than 60 days.

The department's online business licensing system was unveiled in September 2008, with the introduction of online license renewals for automobile dealers and salvage vehicle agents. The service continues to expand and will include other businesses and professionals such as auto repair facilities and driver education instructors and providers in the future.

The department issues approximately 58,000 business and occupational licenses, certifications and registrations each year, most of which are renewals. Visit its Web site for complete information about services and office locations.