Most DMV offices close on Columbus Day, but some states handle it differently

Columbus Day falls on the second Monday in October. Most state DMV offices close on this day because it is a federal holiday, though a handful of states do not observe it. If you need to visit the DMV on or around Columbus Day, you will need to check your specific state's holiday schedule — calling ahead or checking the website for your local office is the only way to know for certain whether it will be open.

Some states that do not observe Columbus Day include Hawaii, South Dakota, and Alaska, which celebrate different holidays instead. Even within states that officially observe Columbus Day, individual DMV locations sometimes stay open while others close, so location matters as much as state policy.

Key Takeaways

  • Columbus Day is a federal holiday, and most state DMV offices close on the second Monday in October, though some states do not observe it.
  • A few states including Hawaii, South Dakota, and Alaska do not recognize Columbus Day and may have DMV offices open on that date.
  • The only reliable way to confirm whether your local DMV is open is to call the office directly or check your state's DMV website before you go.
  • If your DMV is closed on Columbus Day, you can often schedule an appointment for the next business day or use online services for some transactions.

Which states observe Columbus Day at the DMV

The majority of states treat Columbus Day as a holiday and close their DMV offices. This includes large states like California, Texas, Florida, New York, and Pennsylvania. If your state is among the 47 that observe the federal holiday calendar, your DMV will almost certainly be closed on Columbus Day itself.

However, some states have officially replaced Columbus Day with Indigenous Peoples' Day or straightforward do not recognize it as a paid holiday for state employees. Hawaii, South Dakota, and Alaska fall into this category. In these states, the DMV may operate on a normal schedule, though you should still verify with your local office because individual locations can make their own decisions.

A few other states observe Columbus Day but call it something different — for example, some refer to it as "Native American Day." The name does not change the closure, but it can make online searches confusing. Your state DMV website will list the actual closure dates under "Holiday Hours" or "Office Closures."

How to learn about your DMV is open on Columbus Day

The fastest way to confirm is to call your local DMV office directly. Most DMV phone lines have an automated message that lists holiday closures, and you can usually reach a person during business hours to ask about a specific date. Keep your local office's phone number saved, since you may need it again for other holidays.

Your state's DMV website will also post a holiday schedule, usually under a section labeled "Hours," "Locations," or "Closures." Some states publish the full year's schedule in advance, while others update it closer to the date. Search "[your state] DMV holiday hours" to find the official page quickly.

If you cannot reach anyone by phone and the website does not list Columbus Day specifically, assume the office is closed. It is safer to plan around a closure than to make a trip and find the doors locked.

What to do if your DMV is closed on Columbus Day

If you need a service that cannot wait, check whether your state offers online transactions. Many states now allow you to renew a driver's license, update your address, or request a duplicate document through their website without visiting an office. These services are often available 24 hours, even on holidays.

You can also schedule an appointment for the next business day — Tuesday, if Columbus Day falls on Monday. Many states let you book appointments online or by phone, and scheduling ahead usually means a shorter wait. Some DMVs hold appointment slots specifically for the day after a holiday closure because they expect higher demand.

If your situation is truly urgent — for example, your license expires on Columbus Day itself — contact your local DMV office before the holiday to explain. Some offices will issue a temporary extension or make other accommodations for time-sensitive cases.

Other federal holidays when the DMV closes

Columbus Day is one of ten federal holidays when most DMV offices close. The others are New Year's Day, Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Presidents' Day, Memorial Day, Juneteenth, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day, and Christmas Day. Some states also close on Veterans Day or observe additional state-specific holidays.

A few holidays create partial closures rather than full ones. For example, some DMVs close early on the day before Thanksgiving or reopen with limited hours the day after Christmas. Check your state's full holiday schedule so you do not plan a trip around an assumption.

Planning ahead to avoid holiday closures

If you know you will need a DMV service in October, schedule your visit for early in the month or the week after Columbus Day. This gives you a buffer and avoids the rush of people trying to get in before or after the holiday.

Renew your license, update your address, or order documents at least two weeks before you need them. If you wait until the last minute and a holiday falls in between, you may not have time to get what you need. Online renewal and address changes can often be done weeks in advance, so use those options when they are available in your state.

Scam alert: Fake DMV holiday notices

Be cautious of emails or text messages claiming to be from the DMV and announcing holiday hours or closures. Scammers sometimes send fake messages that look official, asking you to click a link or provide personal information. The real DMV will never ask for your Social Security number, driver's license number, or payment information through email or text.

If you receive a message about DMV hours, go directly to your state's official DMV website by typing the address into your browser — do not click links in emails or texts. You can also call your local office using the phone number listed on your state's website to confirm any information.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the DMV open on Columbus Day in my state?

Most states close the DMV on Columbus Day, but Hawaii, South Dakota, and Alaska do not observe it. Call your local DMV office or check your state's website under "Holiday Hours" to confirm. This is the only way to know for certain, since policies vary by state and sometimes by location.

Can I renew my license online if the DMV is closed on Columbus Day?

Many states allow online renewal, which you can do anytime, even on holidays. Check your state DMV website to see which services are available online. If online renewal is not an option in your state, schedule an appointment for the next business day.

What if my license expires on Columbus Day?

Contact your local DMV before the holiday to explain your situation. Some offices will issue a temporary extension or allow you to renew early. Online renewal is also an option in many states if your license has not yet expired.

Will the DMV be crowded the day after Columbus Day?

Yes, typically the day after a holiday closure sees higher traffic. If you can, schedule an appointment in advance rather than walking in. This usually results in a shorter wait than showing up without an appointment.

Where can I find my state's full holiday schedule?

Search "[your state] DMV holiday hours" or visit your state's official DMV website. Look for a section labeled "Hours," "Locations," or "Closures." You can also call your local office to request the full year's schedule.