Actually, here in Jersey, they privatized the DMV years ago. I've never had to do anything there that took longer than 1/2 hour. That includes getting a photo License (and I took the finished one with me). But your point is well taken...
A few years ago I moved from L.A. to a small city in eastern California. The DMV in L.A. was a nightmare; long lines, rude people, etc. In the small city it's exactly the opposite; no lines, friendly, helpful employees.
In both places the DMV is a government entity.