The California DMV schedules facility closures for system maintenance and updates
The California Department of Motor Vehicles periodically closes individual field offices for planned maintenance. These closures are announced in advance and typically last one to three days. During a planned closure, you cannot visit that office in person, but you can often complete transactions online or visit a different location.
The DMV posts a list of upcoming closures on its website under "Field Office Closures" or "Planned Maintenance." You can search by county or office name to see if your local branch will be closed on the date you need to visit. Some offices close for a single day; others may close for longer periods during major system upgrades.
Key Takeaways
- The DMV announces planned office closures on its website before they happen, usually with at least two weeks' notice.
- Many transactions can be completed online through the DMV website or at an alternative office location during a closure.
- You can check which offices are closed by visiting the DMV's field office locator and filtering for your county.
- If you have an appointment scheduled during a closure, the DMV will typically cancel it and offer you a new date at a different location or time.
How to learn about your local DMV office is closed
Visit the official California DMV website at dmv.ca.gov. Look for the "Field Office Locator" tool or search for "Planned Maintenance" in the site's search bar. Enter your county or the specific office name you plan to visit.
The locator will show you the office hours and any scheduled closures. If a closure is listed, it will include the dates the office will be closed and sometimes the reason for the closure. You can also call the office directly at the phone number listed to confirm closure dates before making a trip.
What you can do during a planned closure
Many DMV services are available online without visiting an office. You can renew your driver's license or identification card, update your address, order a replacement document, or pay certain fees through the DMV website. Check the online services menu to see which transactions you can complete from home.
If you need to visit an office in person, find an alternative location that is open. The DMV field office locator shows all offices in your region with their hours. Some offices are busier than others, so visiting a location farther from your home may mean a shorter wait. You can also make an appointment at an open office through the DMV website, which reserves your place and reduces wait time.
If you have an appointment during a closure
The DMV automatically cancels appointments scheduled during a planned closure. You will receive a notice by email or mail (depending on how you made the appointment) with information about rescheduling. The notice will offer you alternative dates and locations.
You can reschedule through the DMV website, by phone, or by mail. If you do not receive a notice within a few days of the closure date, contact the office directly to confirm your appointment was cancelled and to book a new one. Do not assume your appointment will be rescheduled automatically — follow up to confirm a new date.
Services that may not be available during closures
In-person services stop completely during a planned closure. This includes written tests, vision tests, photograph services, and document verification. If you need any of these services, you must visit on a day the office is open or find an alternative location.
Some services, such as commercial driver's license (CDL) testing, may only be offered at certain offices. If your local office is closed and it is the only location offering CDL testing in your area, you may need to wait until it reopens or travel to a different county. Check the DMV website to see which offices offer the specific service you need.
Planning ahead to avoid closures
Check the DMV closure calendar before you schedule a visit or appointment. The DMV typically posts closures at least two weeks in advance, giving you time to plan. If you know you will need a service soon, book an appointment now at a date when your preferred office is open.
If you are renewing your license or registration, do not wait until the last week before expiration. Planned closures can create longer wait times at open offices as people reschedule from closed locations. Completing your transaction early gives you more flexibility if a closure affects your plans.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will the DMV refund my appointment fee if my appointment is cancelled due to a closure?
No refund is issued because the DMV does not charge a fee to make an appointment. However, if you paid a service fee before your appointment was cancelled, contact the office to discuss your options. In most cases, the fee applies to your rescheduled appointment.
Can I visit a different DMV office if mine is closed?
Yes. You can visit any open DMV field office in California to complete most transactions. Some services, such as certain commercial tests, may only be available at specific locations. Check the DMV website to confirm the office you plan to visit offers the service you need.
How long do planned closures usually last?
Most planned closures last one to three days. Larger system upgrades or facility maintenance may require longer closures, sometimes up to a week. The DMV will specify the closure dates on its website when the closure is announced.
What if I need to renew my license and the office is closed?
You can renew your driver's license online through the DMV website if you meet the requirements (no major changes to your information, valid out-of-state license, and other conditions). If you cannot renew online, visit an open office or reschedule your appointment for after the closure ends.
Do all DMV offices close on the same dates?
No. Different offices close on different dates depending on their location and maintenance schedules. Always check the specific office you plan to visit. The DMV field office locator shows closures by individual location, not statewide.