Backlog and Headaches: Dealerships Struggle with New Vehicle Registration System in Louisville, Ky.

Louisville Dealerships Face Backlog and Headaches with New Vehicle Registration System

Louisville, Ky. – A new system for how dealerships request vehicle registration and plates with county clerk’s offices has created a backlog and headaches for all involved in Jefferson County.

The Jefferson County Clerk’s Office is temporarily closing its West Branch and Downtown locations from July 8 through July 19 to address the backlog of registrations at 228 Army Ave. and 200 S. 5th St., respectively.

The issues stem from the Kentucky Automated Vehicle Information System (KAVIS) unveiled in January, which has caused delays and wait times for dealerships and clerks alike. Ashley Tinius, Jefferson County Clerk’s Office director of communications, media, and public relations, explained, “We’ve tried to make progress, but unfortunately, it is much more time-consuming for the clerks. And the dealerships are really suffering.”

Before the system switch, Jefferson County could process car registration orders in two days or fewer. However, with the new system, it can take several weeks for dealerships to receive back plates for their buyers, leading to a backlog of 6,000 registrations since January.

While the office closures may inconvenience residents, Lauren Votruba, a clerk’s office employee who recently purchased a car, remains optimistic. She shared, “In the long run, I do think it will make it better for everyone to get this done.”

Despite the backlog, Votruba was able to drive her new car off the lot with dealer tags and is awaiting the official paperwork to come back. With a dedicated staff of approximately 30 office employees solely working on dealership orders, Tinius is confident they can catch up and encourages residents not to be discouraged from purchasing a car during this time.