California Candidate Proposes Abolishing DMV

Gubernatorial candidate Steve Hilton has proposed abolishing California's Department of Motor Vehicles and capping annual vehicle registration fees at $73 if elected. The proposal, announced at a rally in West Hollywood, aims to reduce bureaucracy and costs for drivers. Hilton stated that services currently handled by the DMV would be moved online where possible, with remaining functions transferred to existing county offices. He described the DMV as a "bloated, nanny state, bureaucratic agency" that treats Californians with "complete contempt" and contributes to high living costs. The plan is part of Hilton's broader "Operation Zero Waste" initiative, intended to cut state spending and redirect savings to tax relief. The campaign estimates that capping registration fees at $73 would reduce annual revenue by approximately $8.3 billion. To offset this shortfall, the proposal suggests reducing state spending on roads. Hilton also indicated that unused DMV offices could be converted into vocational training centers or sold. Implementing such a significant overhaul would require legislative action.