The Department of Motor Vehicles is closed just like so many other businesses.

But many services are still available online, however you might experience delays.

For example, when you purchased your last new car, did you get it from a dealership?  In that case it was likely the dealership that also handled your tags and registration.

If you've made a private purchase of a car, it's a different story.

With the tax collector's office closed because of coronavirus, that's left a lot of folks waiting more than two months to be able to legally put their car on the road.

Real Time Traffic Expert Chuck Henson got this email from Ray Miller of Pinellas County about his daughter, Kelly, who made a private purchase of her new car.

The email said: “The DMV added her to a list where she will get an application package by mail in two or three weeks. Once submitted it will take 30 to 90 days to make her car legal. The Sheriff's Office states that no allowances are being made and it's a DMV issue."

So for now, Kelly's new truck just sits. It’s paid for and insured, but with no tags or registration, it can't be driven.

Typically these transactions are done in person. Of course, nothing is normal right now so the county is allowing for mail in options.

With that comes the backlog of applications.

Before COVID-19 about 20 to 30 applications would be in process and take about two to three days to complete.

Now there are more than 600 in the queue.

Pinellas County Tax Collector Charles Thomas understands how difficult this has been on everyone.

"We look forward to being able to reopen to the public, but right now the health and safety of both our employees and our customers is a top priority," he said. "We continue to closely monitor the situation and follow both local and national recommendations."

Another option you have is to simply apply for a temporary tag. That can at least get you on the road for 30 days and can be extended for an additional 30 days if necessary.