Illinois’ first DMV+ location opened this week in the redesigned Melrose Park office, promising a new experience with shorter wait times and new services.

But what exactly can you access at the new DMV+ and how does it differ from a standard Illinois Department of State facility?

According to Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias, clients can combine services that would normally require a visit to the Secretary of State’s office in the Chicago Loop or Springfield.

DMV+ is marketed as a “one-stop shop” and is intended to enable quick entry and exit that would normally mean a longer stay at another facility.

“This will make it easier for customers to obtain vehicle stickers or renew their driver’s licenses, while also helping local businesses,” Senate President Don Harmon said in a statement.

A single customer service desk at DMV+ will handle both driver and vehicle services, with the goal of making room for additional stations and appointments.

These are the services that can be availed at a single service counter, Giannoulias said:

• Renewing a driver’s license or identity card
• Apply for a REAL ID
• Register or extend vehicle registration/obtain vehicle stickers
• Convert a temporary visitor’s license (TVDL) to a standard driver’s license
• Order a new license plate
• Register as a voter
• Join the Illinois Organ and Tissue Donor Registry

“This DMV modernization will help our community get the services it needs without having to waste time waiting in lines,” said Melrose Park Mayor Ron Serpico Sr. “The impact will be significant and felt not only by Melrose Park residents and their families with busy schedules, but also by people in surrounding communities.”

In addition, specialized services add the “plus” to the DMV+ name, including ones that were never available at any DMV location in the state of Illinois, according to Giannoulias’ office.

According to the Foreign Ministry, the new services include:

Business services: In-person express services; obtaining certified copies of business documents; filing documents, including articles of incorporation and amendments for corporations and various types of LLCs; filing reinstatements to get their business back in good standing; and filing trademarks with ILSOS. These services currently require clients to visit the Business Services office in Chicago or Springfield or conduct their transaction by mail, which delays processing time.

Indexing services: Walk-in service for clients seeking to obtain apostilles and certificates of authority for documents used abroad. Due to the sensitive nature of the documents being certified, clients must provide original physical copies and services are not offered digitally. Clients must currently visit the Index Department in Chicago or Springfield or mail their documents to the office. The DMV+ offers on-site processing and certification.

Personnel services: A pre-employment test is required for most entry-level employees and all DMV employees. Currently, prospective employees must travel to Chicago or Springfield for an in-person test. The office will also offer a hub of publicly accessible computers for those with limited access or who need assistance submitting applications.