In this issue of MOVE, we focus on two seemingly unrelated topics, titling and impaired driving prevention, in another reminder of the transformative potential of leveraging new technologies to address common challenges. Whether the shift from paper to electronic vehicle titles, now commonly referred to as “e-titling,” or the development of new methods to detect impairment at roadside, the AAMVA community is leaning into innovative technology more than ever to enhance safety and security.

Through innovation, our community embraces the opportunity to streamline processes and maximize administrative efficiency. E-titling lessens the need for in-person customer appointments and allows DMV staff to manage tasks more efficiently through digital means. Similarly, new technology improves the work of law enforcement. Technology-based process improvements, from blood collection and impairment detection by drug recognition experts (DREs) to e-citation and digital case management, increase law enforcement efficiency. Whether in the field or in the office, safety stakeholders use technology to better serve the public and ultimately improve safety.

Building on our long history of standards development, the AAMVA team will continue to play a crucial role in developing nationwide standards for e-titling, ensuring compatibility among states and facilitating the transition to a digital system. The fight to prevent impaired driving also requires close collaboration, whether between law enforcement agencies, mental health providers or other stakeholders. Here too, AAMVA is working to provide a platform for sharing information and lessons learned.

Every day, our members deal with the realities of making change for good. E-titling implementation means dealing with new laws and regulations to accommodate electronic processes, as well as gaining cooperation from industry stakeholders such as dealers, lenders and manufacturers. Impaired driving is similarly challenging. Particularly with drugs other than alcohol, impaired driving detection and enforcement involves new impairing substances, evolving standards and changing legislation. The complexity of these challenges underscores the need for a coordinated and phased approach to implementation. AAMVA, like its members, is constantly working to embrace technological innovation to produce tools to overcome these challenges.

The common theme of change for good through innovation offers an optimistic outlook for the future of technology-driven solutions. E-titling is a transformative step toward a more secure and efficient vehicle transaction system, with the potential to revolutionize how vehicle records and ownership are managed. Advancements in technology and collaborative efforts in the fight against drugged driving offer hope for reducing impaired driving incidents and improving road safety. In both fields, the broad trend is increasingly to leverage technology as a means of continuous improvement. Whether enhancing security and efficiency in vehicle titling or improving the detection and management of drug-impaired driving, technology plays a pivotal role in driving progress and achieving better outcomes.

To overcome whatever hurdles arise, innovative leadership is essential. Leaders must be forward-thinking and willing to embrace change. By embracing innovative leadership and prioritizing strategic investments, AAMVA jurisdictions can effectively leverage new technology to enhance security, safety and customer delivery.