Many islanders have met Kris Rothert, who handles state vehicle licensing at the Bainbridge Island Chamber of Commerce office. Tab renewals, new license plates? Rothert is the guy behind the desk. One recent morning, he guided a customer through the process of transferring license plates from Florida to Washington. In the end, the man said, “This is the best encounter I’ve ever had with a vehicle licensing agent.” Rothert contends that a lot of happy customers are simply grateful they’ve moved to a small town. “They’re not used to the in-person experience.” Besides the friendly service, patrons are glad to learn that proceeds from vehicle tabs renewed at the Chamber help fund work on the island, such as the Grand Old 4th of July celebration.
How long have you been doing this job?
When I got a ticket back in 2005, the judge gave me community service and I elected to do that with Chamber of Commerce. I started at the visitor information desk, then moved to this in 2010.
What is your job?
I handle vehicle licensing—a lot of title transfers, registration renewals—basically for private property: boats, cars. We sell a lot of yearly renewals for those. Also, transfer of private property from person-to-person or state-to-state.
During COVID, you even dealt with customers out on the sidewalk.
I’m from a first-generation family on the island. My dad was very community-minded. Growing up, I was a Boy Scout. It was easy to follow in my father’s footsteps.
Some people come in, pick up their tabs and go on their away. Others have problems; how do you handle that?
I try to help them see that they have a part to play. Gathering the things the state requires isn’t insurmountable.
What’s the busiest time of day?
Often, it’s first of day as people try to get done early.
Are some times of the month busier than others?
The county sends a mailer a month ahead of time that your tabs are due. But you can renew up to six months ahead. Look at your back license plate and see when it’s due. You’re in control of your tags.
Why don’t you issue driver’s licenses?
We all go to Poulsbo, to the state-controlled driver license bureau, for Washington driver’s license or ID.
Why do people come in instead of renewing by mail?
They forgot to renew, or they like to connect with a person. A lot of people don’t like using the computer, but it’s very accessible. As fast as you can do it online, I can print it out. People can run down here, and it’s done.
There are generally one or two people who come in every month or so and show a lot of emotion. I back off. I can let them know quietly that I cannot continue at this level. Maybe they had the application all filled out but didn’t have it notarized. They often come back the next day and apologize. But some get on the internet and say I’m the worst experience they’ve ever had.
Do people recognize you around town?
I don’t make eye contact at the grocery store. Everybody has a little question, which leads to five or six more. I can’t make it look like I’m doing favors for anyone. The county and state look at me and require things. I have to be careful. I’m not a lawyer, I’m not a policeman.
