Most DMVs are closed on Presidents Day, but some states stay open
Presidents Day falls on the third Monday in February. Most state DMVs treat it as a federal holiday and close their offices that day. However, a handful of states keep some or all locations open, and a few states do not observe it at all. The safest approach is to check your specific state's DMV website before you plan a visit, because the answer depends entirely on where you live.
If your state DMV is closed on Presidents Day, you cannot walk in for a license renewal, title transfer, or registration. Online services may still be available depending on your state — many DMVs allow you to renew registrations or update addresses through their website even when offices are closed. Call ahead or visit your state's website the day before to confirm your local office's status.
Key Takeaways
- Most state DMVs close on Presidents Day, but you should verify your state's specific policy before making a trip.
- A few states, including New York and Texas, keep some DMV locations open on Presidents Day despite the federal holiday.
- Online services like registration renewal and address changes often remain available even when physical offices are closed.
- If you need an in-person service on Presidents Day, plan ahead by scheduling an appointment the day before or after, or use your state's online options.
Which states keep DMVs open on Presidents Day
New York keeps most DMV offices open on Presidents Day, though some satellite locations may close. Texas also operates many DMV locations on Presidents Day, particularly in larger cities. Nevada, Florida, and a few other states have kept select offices open in the past, but this varies year to year and by location within the state.
Even in states that officially stay open, individual branch offices sometimes close due to staffing or local decisions. The only way to know for certain is to look up your specific DMV location on your state's website or call the office directly. Do not assume that because your state is listed as "open" that your nearest branch will be staffed.
States that close all DMV offices on Presidents Day
California, Illinois, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Georgia, North Carolina, and most other states close all DMV offices on Presidents Day. This includes both main offices and branch locations. If you live in one of these states, you will need to schedule your visit for a different day.
Some states that close on Presidents Day offer extended hours on the Friday before or the Tuesday after to help people catch up on services. Check your state DMV's website to see if they publish a holiday schedule with makeup hours.
What you can do online when the DMV is closed
Many states allow you to renew your vehicle registration online without visiting an office, even on holidays when the DMV is closed. You typically need your current registration card and a valid payment method. Some states also let you change your address, update vehicle information, or renew your driver's license online, depending on your situation.
Online services are usually available 24 hours a day through your state's DMV website. If you need a service that requires an in-person visit — such as a road test, a new license photo, or a title transfer — you will have to wait until the DMV reopens.
How to plan ahead for Presidents Day
If you know you need a DMV service around Presidents Day, schedule an appointment for the Friday before or the Tuesday after. Many states now allow you to book appointments online, and doing so in advance can cut your wait time significantly. If your state does not offer online scheduling, call the office a few days before to ask about availability.
If you are renewing a registration or license that expires on or shortly after Presidents Day, do not wait until that week. Process your renewal at least one week earlier to avoid any rush or delays. If your state offers online renewal, use it — you do not have to worry about holiday closures.
What happens if you miss a important date because the DMV is closed
If your registration or license expires on Presidents Day or the day after, and the DMV is closed, you generally have a grace period. Most states allow you to drive on an expired registration for a few days after the expiration date without penalty, as long as you can show proof that you attempted to renew before the important date. However, this grace period varies by state and is not may provide.
The safest approach is to renew before the holiday. If you do miss a important date, contact your state DMV to ask about their grace period policy and whether you face any fines or penalties. Some states waive late fees if the closure was the reason for the delay.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my registration online on Presidents Day if the DMV office is closed?
Yes, in most states. Online registration renewal is usually available 24 hours a day, including holidays. Check your state DMV's website to see if your vehicle and situation are may be able to access for online renewal. You will need your current registration card and a payment method.
What if I have an appointment scheduled for Presidents Day?
If your state DMV is closed on Presidents Day, your appointment will be cancelled or automatically rescheduled. Contact your state DMV or check your confirmation email to see what happened to your booking. You can reschedule for the next available day through the online system or by calling the office.
Do I need to do anything special if my license expires on Presidents Day?
Renew your license before Presidents Day if possible. If the DMV is closed and your license expires that day, contact your state DMV to ask about their grace period. Most states give you a few extra days to renew after an expiration date, but the policy varies.
Are DMV offices open on any other federal holidays?
Most DMVs close on all federal holidays, including Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year's Day, Independence Day, and Labor Day. Some states stay open on certain holidays. Check your state's holiday schedule on their DMV website to see which days your office will be closed.