Most DMVs are closed on Presidents Day, but some locations stay open

Presidents Day falls on the third Monday in February each year. On that day, most state DMVs close because it is a federal holiday. However, the answer depends on your state and sometimes on your specific local office. A few states keep some DMV locations open on Presidents Day, and a handful operate on a modified schedule. You need to check your state's DMV website or call your local branch directly — the closure rules are not uniform across the country.

The safest approach is to assume your DMV will be closed and plan your visit for the day before or the day after. If you have a time-sensitive transaction, contact your local office at least one week ahead to confirm whether it will be open. Many DMVs publish holiday schedules online in December or January, so you can check before the holiday arrives.

Key Takeaways

  • Most state DMVs close on Presidents Day because it is a federal holiday, though a few states operate on modified schedules.
  • Your state's DMV website lists holiday closures and any locations that remain open; calling ahead is the only way to be certain about your specific branch.
  • If you need to handle a transaction around Presidents Day, schedule your visit for the day before or after to avoid a closed office.
  • Some DMVs offer online services for address changes, license renewals, and registration updates that do not depend on office hours.

How to learn about your local DMV is open on Presidents Day

Start by visiting your state's official DMV website and looking for a holiday schedule or hours section. Most states publish this information prominently during the weeks leading up to the holiday. Search for terms like "holiday hours," "office closures," or "Presidents Day" on the site. The schedule usually lists which offices are closed and which, if any, have reduced hours.

If you cannot find the information online, call your local DMV branch directly. Have your location or zip code ready. The staff can tell you whether that specific office will be open and what services are available if it is. This is especially important if you are in a large city with multiple branches — some may close while others stay open, or hours may vary by location.

States that may operate on Presidents Day

A small number of states keep at least some DMV locations open on Presidents Day or operate on a limited schedule. These include Hawaii, which observes the holiday differently than the mainland, and a few states that designate certain high-traffic locations to remain staffed. However, this varies year to year and by location within the state, so you cannot assume your office is open based on your state alone.

Even if your state typically stays open, individual branches may close for staffing or maintenance reasons. The only reliable source is your state's DMV website or a direct call to the office where you plan to go. Do not rely on general information — confirm the specific location you need.

What to do if you need DMV services on or around Presidents Day

If your transaction is not urgent, the simplest solution is to visit the DMV on the day before or the day after Presidents Day. This avoids the risk of finding a closed office and often means shorter wait times, since fewer people are trying to conduct business on those days.

If your important date falls on or very close to Presidents Day, check whether you can handle your transaction online. Many states now allow address changes, license renewals, registration renewals, and duplicate license requests through their websites. These services are available 24 hours and do not depend on office hours. Visit your state DMV's website and look for an online services section to see what you can do without visiting an office.

Planning ahead for Presidents Day closures

If you know you will need DMV services in February, schedule your visit for early in the month or the week after Presidents Day. This gives you a buffer and reduces the chance that a holiday closure will affect your plans. If you are renewing a license or registration that expires around this time, start the process in January instead.

Mark Presidents Day on your calendar — it is the third Monday in February — so you do not accidentally plan a DMV visit for that day. If you are coordinating with others or need to schedule time off work, remember that many government offices and some private businesses also close on this holiday, so traffic and wait times may be different on surrounding days.

Online alternatives to in-person DMV visits

Many states have expanded their online DMV services in recent years. You may be able to renew your driver's license, update your address, renew your vehicle registration, or request a duplicate license without visiting an office at all. These services are available around the clock, including on Presidents Day, and often cost the same as in-person transactions.

Check your state DMV website for an online services portal or mobile app. Some states require you to create an account before you can use these services. If you are unsure whether your specific transaction can be done online, the website usually lists which services are available and which still require an in-person visit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the DMV open on Presidents Day in all states?

No. Most states close their DMV offices on Presidents Day, but a few operate on modified schedules or keep certain locations open. You must check your specific state and local office to know for certain. Call ahead or visit your state DMV website for the most accurate information.

What if I have an appointment scheduled for Presidents Day?

If your appointment is on Presidents Day and your DMV is closed, the office will likely cancel or reschedule it automatically. You should receive a notice by email or mail. If you do not hear anything, contact your local DMV to confirm the new date before you show up.

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

Many states allow online license renewals that do not depend on office hours. Check your state DMV website to see if renewal is available online. If it is, you can complete it on Presidents Day itself. Not all states or all types of renewals may have access to, so verify what your state offers.

How far in advance should I plan if I need to visit the DMV around Presidents Day?

Plan at least one week ahead. This gives you time to check your state's holiday schedule, confirm your local office is open, and schedule a visit for a day when the office is operating. If you need a specific service, check whether it is available online so you have a backup option.

Do I need an appointment to visit the DMV on the day after Presidents Day?

This depends on your state. Some DMVs require appointments for all visits, while others operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Check your state DMV website to see what your location requires. The day after a holiday may have higher traffic, so arriving early or booking an appointment in advance is a good idea.