COEUR d'ALENE — Waiting in line at the Department of Motor Vehicles can make time feel like it is standing still.

But thanks to modern technology, and a suggestion from a resident, the Kootenai County driver's license office will now let patrons run other errands while holding their place in line.

For about a week, a webcam installed in front of the ticket counter at the office, located at 451 Government Way in Coeur d'Alene, has been broadcast live through the county's website. This allows customers to go to the office, take a number, and then monitor the counter remotely through a mobile device by going to www.kcgov.us/dlink.asp.

"Everybody's time is precious," said Kootenai County Sheriff's Capt. Andy Deak. "With this, you can go about your business while you wait and it frees up space in the office and parking lot."

About 25 people an hour visit the driver's license office in Coeur d'Alene, Deak said. The long lines led one customer to suggest to the sheriff's office that a webcam could alleviate some of the crowding inside the office.

"So far it's been pretty well-received," Deak said.

The driver's license office is open, with the exception of holidays, from 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. Additional information about obtaining a driver's license or a state-issued identification card is available at www.kcsheriff.com/driverslicenses.