Kearns builds on auto bureau service with enhanced hours

Expanded Saturday access and strategic location shift aim to reduce wait times, serve more motorists & enhance customer experience

Submitted by the Office of Erie County Clerk Michael P. Kearns

Erie County Clerk Michael P. Kearns announced updated operating hours at three of the six auto bureau branches, continuing his longstanding focus on delivering superior customer service and reduced transaction times.

Beginning May 2, Saturday service will move to the Town of Tonawanda Branch (2309 Eggert Road, Sheridan/Eggert Plaza), which will serve as the new primary Saturday location in the north towns. This larger facility is better equipped to handle high weekend demand, expanding from eight service windows at the Eastern Hills Mall location to 10-12 transaction windows. The branch will also add 25 additional appointment slots, which will increase access and improving overall efficiency. Saturday hours at this branch will be 8 a.m. until 2 p.m., while weekday hours remain 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Saturday hours are also being expanded at the Southgate Plaza Auto Bureau Branch in West Seneca, further increasing access for residents who rely on weekend service in the south towns. This location will now open earlier on Saturdays from 7 a.m. to noon, and will add 50 new appointment slots to better accommodate demand. Weekday hours will continue from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Customers are also asked to note that the Eastern Hills Mall location will remain open Tuesday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., but will no longer offer Saturday hours as staff are reassigned to the Tonawanda Branch to support weekend operations.

To improve efficiency and better manage workflow, there will be no reentry into offices after noon or 2 p.m., depending on the location. However, staff will continue servicing customers already in line until 1 or 3 p.m., respectively. This adjustment is designed to help minimize overtime while ensuring all customers in queue are served.

“These updates are part of our ongoing commitment to providing the highest level of customer service,” Kearns said. “By expanding hours, increasing appointment availability, and utilizing larger, more efficient locations, we are making it faster, easier, and more convenient for residents to complete their DMV transactions – while maintaining flexibility and avoiding a strict appointment-only model that some counties are considering.”

Kearns emphasized why these alterations matter:

•Reduces wait times, especially during peak weekend morning hours

•Maximizes efficiency by utilizing larger, better-equipped locations

•Expands access for residents who rely on Saturday service

•Enhances overall customer flow

•Helps better manage increased walk-in traffic while maintaining service flexibility

Customers are encouraged to make an appointment and take advantage of the Erie County DMV “Express Lane” to further reduce service times. Walk-ins are welcome and accepted up to 15 minutes before branch closing, based on availability; however, scheduled appointments do receive priority.

For a full list of auto bureau locations, updated hours, or to schedule an appointment 24/7, visit erie.gov/clerk or call 716-858-8864 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays.