Sandoval names new DMV chief

CARSON CITY — Gov. Brian Sandoval on Tuesday appointed Terri Albertson as director of the Department of Motor Vehicles, effective immediately. Albertson had been serving as the interim director since September following the retirement of Director Troy Dillard.

"Terri has demonstrated vision and leadership during her short time as interim director of the Department of Motor Vehicles," Sandoval said. "Nevada's Department of Motor Vehicles is in the midst of embracing new technology and moving these essential services into the 21st century with a focus on improving customer service with increased expediency and accuracy. Terri is the right person to lead this effort and I am pleased she has agreed to accept this expanded role."

Albertson said: "I am humbled to accept this new position and lead the Nevada Department of Motor Vehicles into the future. I am encouraged by Governor Sandoval's leadership and look forward to the challenges ahead. It is an honor to serve as a member of his Cabinet as we work to enact his vision of building the new Nevada rooted in innovation and technology."

The agency faces numerous challenges, including long wait times that the Legislature has tried to address with the authorization of multiple new positions. The agency announced in July that it hired 70 new employees to help reduce long wait times at its four urban Southern Nevada offices that were averaging nearly two hours.

Lawmakers earlier this year also endorsed a long-term fix, a new $109.4 million computer system that will take five years to bring fully on line.

Albertson has more than 30 years in administrative and managerial leadership which includes almost 10 years at the Nevada Department of Motor Vehicles. Prior to serving as interim director, Albertson served as the administrator for the Management Services and Programs Division.

Albertson earned her associate degree from Reedley College and bachelor of arts from Fresno Pacific University.

Contact Sean Whaley at swhaley@reviewjournal.com or 775-687-3900. Find him on Twitter: @seanw801