Most California DMV offices are closed on Saturdays

The California Department of Motor Vehicles does not operate Saturday hours at its physical office locations. All standard DMV field offices are open Monday through Friday only. If you need to visit a DMV office, you will need to go on a weekday.

Some counties have extended their weekday hours to accommodate people who cannot visit during standard business hours, but this does not include weekend service. The specific hours vary by location — some offices open at 8 a.m. and others at 8:30 a.m., and closing times range from 4 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Key Takeaways

  • California DMV field offices do not open on Saturdays; all locations operate Monday through Friday only.
  • Weekday hours vary by office location, so you should check your local DMV's schedule before visiting.
  • You can handle many transactions online through the DMV website without visiting an office at all.
  • If you cannot visit during weekday hours, the DMV's online services and mail-in options may solve your problem without requiring a Saturday visit.

How to find your local DMV's weekday hours

The DMV website has a location finder tool where you can search by city, ZIP code, or county. Once you select your nearest office, the page displays the exact hours for that location. Hours are listed for each day of the week, Monday through Friday.

Call your local office directly if you want to confirm hours before you drive there. The phone number appears on the location page. Many offices have experienced longer wait times on Fridays and shorter waits on Tuesday and Wednesday mornings, though this varies by location and time of year.

Transactions you can complete online instead

The DMV's online services handle many common tasks without requiring an office visit. You can renew your driver's license or identification card online if you meet certain conditions — your document must not be expired by more than five years, and you cannot have a medical condition that affects your driving. You can also order a replacement card, update your address, and pay registration fees online.

The DMV also accepts mail-in requests for some services. You can mail in an process for a duplicate registration card, request a certified copy of your driving record, or submit certain registration renewals by post. Check the DMV website for the specific mailing address and any forms you need to include.

What to do if you cannot visit on a weekday

If your schedule does not allow a weekday visit, start by checking whether your transaction can be completed online or by mail. Many people discover they do not need to visit an office once they explore these options.

If you must visit in person, consider taking time off work or arranging your schedule around a weekday visit. Some offices have shorter waits during mid-morning hours on Tuesday or Wednesday. You can also use the DMV's online appointment system to reserve a time slot at your local office, which reduces wait time significantly compared to walk-in visits.

Using the DMV appointment system

The DMV allows you to reserve an appointment time online for most services. Go to the DMV website, select your location, and choose from available time slots. Appointments are typically available several weeks in advance.

When you arrive for your appointment, you still need to check in, but you will be seen closer to your scheduled time rather than waiting in a general queue. Bring all required documents — the DMV website lists what you need for your specific transaction before you book the appointment.

Services that require an in-person visit

Some transactions cannot be completed online or by mail and require you to visit a DMV office in person. These include taking a written driving test, taking a driving test, obtaining a new driver's license if yours was suspended or revoked, and explore for a commercial driver's license. You also must visit in person for your first identification card or driver's license, and to add certain endorsements or restrictions to an existing license.

If your transaction requires an in-person visit, book an appointment as far in advance as possible. This is especially important if you need a specific service, because some offices have limited availability for certain tests or services.

Planning your visit on a weekday

Bring your appointment confirmation number or reservation if you booked ahead. Arrive 10 to 15 minutes early to allow time to check in. Bring all documents listed on the DMV website for your specific transaction — missing documents are the most common reason visits take longer than expected or require a return trip.

If you are taking a test, bring your glasses or contacts if you use them, and bring your current driver's license or ID card. If you are renewing a license and need a new photo, wear something you are comfortable being photographed in.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my license or registration on Saturday at a kiosk?

The DMV does not operate Saturday kiosk service at any location in California. Some retail locations like AAA offices handle certain DMV transactions, but these also operate on weekday and standard business hours only. Check the DMV website to see which services AAA or other partners offer in your area.

What if I need to visit a DMV office urgently during the week?

Book an appointment online as soon as possible — appointments are usually available within a few days. If you cannot wait for an appointment, visit as a walk-in during mid-morning hours on a Tuesday or Wednesday, when wait times are typically shorter than on Mondays or Fridays.

Do any California DMV offices have extended evening hours?

Some offices stay open until 5:30 p.m. instead of closing at 4 or 5 p.m., but no California DMV office operates evening hours past 5:30 p.m. Check your local office's hours on the DMV website to see if extended afternoon hours are available at your location.

Can I handle my transaction by phone instead of visiting in person?

The DMV does not process transactions over the phone. You can call to ask questions about what documents you need or to confirm your office's hours, but you must visit in person or use online and mail-in services to complete your transaction.