Scary

Since today is my last day to take care of things during the week, I thought I should go get my driver's license. Last night, I reviewed the Oregon rules of the road because I remember getting stumped when I took the written test in Eugene. Yes, I know how to drive. I am bad at multiple choice and they asked the most obscure questions.

I made it to the DMV and there were about 25 people ahead of me. I filled out my application form and picked up all of the forms for license and registration that I'll start working on next week or so. I suddenly realized that I forgot to bring along proof of residence. I remembered all of the other documents like social security card and birth certificate. I had about 18 people in front of me at this point so I ran to my car. I am sure I broke many traffic laws to/from my apartment. I arrived back at the DMV and I had missed my number by 2 people. Back to 15 people in front of me. I also had a minor freak out when I realized I've been driving for almost 21 years.

There was absolutely no privacy at this DMV. This woman went up to the counter and said that her house had burned down so she only had one piece of identification. The employee told her it wasn't sufficient. He had no sympathy for her at all. She asked to speak to a manager. He said he was the manager. She ended up walking out and yelling at him, "I hope your house never burns down and you lose everything." I thought he seemed a little unsympathetic but the next 3 people had the exact same story. Apparently, this is a common excuse unless there has been a rash of fires in Portland.

The line went fast because barely anyone had the correct paperwork. The clerk almost wept when I came up to the counter and I had all of my documentation. Guess what? My former Oregon license had not expired so I didn't have to take the written or vision tests. I also didn't have to pay $64. I only had to pay $21. Unfortunately, I had to get a new photo taken. My previous Oregon photo was the best driver's license photo I've ever had. This one? It is by far the scariest photo I have ever had taken of me. Ever. Worst photo ever. You name it - school, id, or candid photo. I actually said, "Oh my God" when they handed it to me. I look like death. Worse than death. I would try to take a photo of the id to show all of you but I think it would break my camera lens.

That was the most productive thing I did on my last day before work starts. Oh and I also switched over my car and rental insurance. They are mailing me everything so I don't how much cheaper my insurance will be from NJ. I am hoping a lot.