I had to renew this past year and also wanted a real ID, as I haven't gotten around to renewing my passport. The very next day after I received the notification for renewal (5 - 6 months in advance of expiration), I went online to try to make an appointment. First one available was a month *after* expiration.
So I decided to take my chances without an appointment and showed up to the DMV that week on a rainy afternoon. Thankfully, I brought "just in case" back-up (which was needed) and was in and out in an hour. So rainy days, when many people prefer to not go out, may be a good time to give it a try... 
I also once had great luck there on a Friday afternoon before a 3-day weekend. Apparently that's another time folks don't want to face dealing with the DMV, as it didn't take me any longer than when I DID have an appointment. And around here, as you know, unless you can wait until early next year, it may be easier to catch a 3-day weekend than a rainy day! 
Good luck! |
