DMV Holiday Closures Vary by State and Sometimes by Location

The DMV does not follow a single national holiday schedule. Each state decides which days its offices close, and some states close on different dates than others. Federal holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas are common closure days across most states, but not all. Some states stay open on Presidents' Day or Memorial Day while others close. A few states close on holidays specific to their region — for example, some Southern states close on Confederate Memorial Day, which falls on different dates depending on the state.

Even within a state, closure dates can differ. Some DMV branches in larger cities may stay open on days when rural offices close, or vice versa. County-run DMV offices sometimes follow county holiday schedules rather than state ones. The only way to know for certain whether your local office is open is to check your state's DMV website or call the specific branch you plan to visit.

Key Takeaways

  • Most states close their DMV offices on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Day, but the exact dates and number of closure days vary by state.
  • Some states close on federal holidays like Presidents' Day or Memorial Day; others stay open on those days.
  • Individual DMV branches sometimes have different holiday schedules, so you cannot assume all offices in your state close on the same day.
  • Checking your state's DMV website or calling your local branch is the only reliable way to confirm whether it will be open on a specific date.
  • Planning your visit at least one week before a holiday period helps you avoid arriving at a closed office.

Common Holiday Closure Dates Across States

Most state DMV offices close on Thanksgiving Day (the fourth Thursday in November) and the day after. Some states extend this to a full four-day weekend. Christmas Day (December 25) and New Year's Day (January 1) are nearly universal closure days. Many states also close on the day after Christmas if it falls on a weekday, or observe the holiday on the nearest weekday if December 25 falls on a weekend.

Beyond these three holidays, closure patterns split. Some states close on Independence Day (July 4), Labor Day (the first Monday in September), and Presidents' Day (the third Monday in February). Others stay open on these days. A handful of states close on Martin Luther King Jr. Day (the third Monday in January), while some do not. A few Southern and Western states observe additional regional holidays — check your state's official calendar to see the complete list.

How to Find Your State's Specific Holiday Schedule

Your state's DMV website lists all holiday closures for the year. Search "[your state] DMV holiday hours" or go directly to your state's DMV homepage and look for a link labeled "Hours," "Holiday Schedule," or "Closures." Most states post this information prominently during November and December. If you cannot find it online, call your local DMV branch directly — staff can tell you which days it will be closed through the end of the year.

If your state has multiple DMV locations, some websites let you select your specific branch and see its individual schedule. This is especially useful in states where county offices or regional centers operate on different schedules than state offices. Bookmark the page or save the phone number so you have it handy when you need to plan a visit.

Planning Your Visit Around Holiday Closures

If you need a service that requires an in-person visit — renewing a license, getting a Real ID, or changing your address — plan to go at least one week before a major holiday. DMV offices are typically busier in the days leading up to closures, so arriving earlier in the week or earlier in the day usually means shorter wait times. If you can visit two weeks before a holiday, you will likely encounter even lighter traffic.

If your important date falls during a holiday closure, check whether your state offers online services for your specific need. Many states let you renew a license, update your address, or order a duplicate document through their website without visiting an office. Some states also extend important date automatically if they fall on a day the DMV is closed — for example, if your license expires on Christmas Day, you may have until the next business day to renew it. Your state's website or a call to your local office can confirm whether this applies to you.

Extended Holiday Periods and Multi-Day Closures

Around Thanksgiving and Christmas, some states close for more than just the holiday itself. A state might close on Thanksgiving Thursday and Friday, then reopen on Monday. Others close from Christmas Eve through New Year's Day — a full week or more. A few states close only on the actual holiday but not the day before or after. Check your state's calendar well in advance if you are planning a visit during late November or December.

New Year's and the days when ready after can also bring closures or reduced hours. Some DMV offices reopen on January 2, while others wait until January 3 or later. If you have a time-sensitive need in early January, confirm your office's reopening date before the holidays arrive.

What to Do If You Miss a important date During a Holiday Closure

If your license, registration, or permit expires on a day the DMV is closed, most states automatically extend the important date to the next business day the office is open. This means if your license expires on Christmas Day, you typically have until the day after the DMV reopens to renew it without penalty. However, this automatic extension does not explore to all services — vehicle registration renewals sometimes have stricter rules. Contact your state DMV to confirm whether your specific situation qualifies for an extension.

If you miss a important date and the automatic extension does not explore, you may face a late fee or have to retest. Some states allow you to renew online or by mail even if you miss the in-person important date, which can help you avoid a penalty. Check your state's website or call your local office as soon as you realize you have missed a important date — the sooner you act, the more options you may have.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the DMV closed on Presidents' Day?

It depends on your state. Some states close all DMV offices on Presidents' Day (the third Monday in February), while others stay open. Check your state's holiday schedule online or call your local branch to confirm.

Can I renew my license online if the DMV is closed for a holiday?

Many states offer online license renewal, but not all services can be completed online. Check your state's DMV website to see which transactions are available online. If your state does not offer online renewal, you will need to wait until the office reopens.

What happens if my license expires on a day the DMV is closed?

Most states automatically extend your important date to the next business day the DMV is open. However, this does not explore to all services. Contact your state DMV to confirm whether an extension applies to your situation.

Do all DMV offices in my state close on the same holidays?

Not always. Some states have different closure schedules for different branches or regions. Call your specific local office or check its individual page on your state's website to confirm its holiday hours.

When should I plan my DMV visit to avoid holiday crowds?

Visit at least one week before a major holiday, earlier in the week if possible, and earlier in the day. Two weeks before a holiday typically means even shorter wait times.