If anyone happens to see this, the best thing I've learned this year is that you can do all your DMV business (at least in CA) at any AAA office, if you're a member.
I've been putting off going to the DMV for nearly a year now. My licence is very, very expired. If I can join AAA to avoid this, I definitely will.
I used to complain about the RTA (the NSW equivalent) in Sydney. But I have to admit that last time I showed up to get my New South Wales licence renewed, I was in and out with a licence in my hand (printed on the spot) in about fifteen minutes.