I was sent a document to renew my license (license expires Nov) however, all appointments in neighboring cities (up to 50 miles) say earliest appointment is in January. Any advice on how to get an earlier appointment (& not stand in insane lines)?

no it's like that

They usually send letters 4-6 months in advance. So there is plenty of time to schedule. But, it doesn't matter in the end. Appointment or not, you will spend half a day there anyway.

Appointment or not you are still going to stand in line. There is no good day at the dmv

yogov.org, U can try this website they can get u appointment in less than 2 weeks.