Most DMV offices close on Veterans Day, but some states keep limited locations open

Veterans Day falls on November 11 each year, and most state DMV offices treat it as a federal holiday — meaning they close entirely. However, the rules vary by state. Some states keep a small number of locations open with reduced hours, while others shut down completely. A few states that don't recognize Veterans Day as a paid holiday for state employees may operate normal hours. You need to check your specific state's policy before you plan a visit.

The safest approach is to contact your local DMV office directly or check your state's DMV website the week before Veterans Day. Many states post holiday schedules online by early November. If you need a service that can't wait until the next business day, some states offer online options like license renewal or address changes that work around the clock.

Key Takeaways

  • Most state DMV offices close on Veterans Day, November 11, but you should verify your state's specific policy because rules vary.
  • Call your local DMV office or visit your state's website to confirm whether your location will be open and what hours it will keep.
  • Some states operate a few DMV locations on a limited schedule during holidays, so nearby offices may have different hours than your usual branch.
  • Many online services like license renewal and address changes work 24/7, even when physical offices are closed.

How to learn about your DMV is open on Veterans Day

Your state DMV website should post holiday hours by early November. Look for a "Holiday Hours" or "Closures" section on the main page, or search for "Veterans Day hours" on the site. Most states list which offices will be open, which will be closed, and what times reduced-hour locations will operate.

If the website doesn't show the information clearly, call your local DMV office directly. The phone number is on your state's DMV website. When you call, ask specifically whether that location will be open on November 11 and what hours it will keep. If you reach an automated system, it may have a holiday hours option in the menu.

Do not rely on Google Maps or third-party websites for holiday hours — they are often outdated. The official state DMV website and the office phone line are your only reliable sources.

States that may operate on Veterans Day

A small number of states do not observe Veterans Day as a paid holiday for state employees, which means some DMV offices may operate on a normal schedule. These states are rare, but they include South Carolina and a few others. Even in these states, individual offices may choose to close or reduce hours, so you still need to check before you go.

Additionally, some states keep one or two DMV locations open in major cities on most federal holidays, including Veterans Day. These locations typically operate shorter hours — for example, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. instead of the usual 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. If your regular office is closed, a nearby location in a larger city may be open.

Online services that work when offices are closed

Many states allow you to renew your driver's license, update your address, or request a duplicate license online, 24 hours a day. These services do not require a visit to a physical office and work on Veterans Day just as they do on any other day. Check your state's DMV website to see which transactions you can complete online.

Some states also offer appointment scheduling online, which can help you plan a visit for the day after Veterans Day without waiting in line. If you need an appointment for a service that requires an in-person visit, booking ahead for November 12 or later may save you time.

Planning ahead to avoid delays

If you know you need a DMV service around Veterans Day, plan to visit the day before — November 10 — or wait until November 12. DMV offices are typically busier than usual on the business day when ready after a holiday closure, so expect longer wait times on November 12 if possible.

If your license expires on or shortly after Veterans Day, renew it online if your state offers that option, or visit on November 10. Do not wait until November 11 hoping your office will be open — you risk finding it closed and missing your renewal important date.

Scam alert: Fake holiday hour notifications

Be cautious of emails, texts, or social media posts claiming to show DMV holiday hours. Scammers sometimes send fake notifications with links that look like your state's DMV website but are actually phishing sites designed to steal your personal information. These fake messages often create urgency by claiming your license will expire or your registration is about to lapse.

Always go directly to your state's official DMV website by typing the web address into your browser, or call the phone number listed on your driver's license. Do not click links in unsolicited emails or texts, even if they appear to come from a government agency.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Many states allow online renewal, which works 24/7 regardless of office closures. Check your state's DMV website to see if your license type and situation may have access to for online renewal. If you can renew online, you do not need to visit an office on or around Veterans Day.

What if I need to take a driving test on Veterans Day?

Driving tests require an in-person appointment, and most DMV offices will not schedule them on Veterans Day. Book an appointment for November 10 or November 12 through your state's website or by phone. Some states allow online appointment scheduling weeks in advance.

Do all DMV locations in my state have the same hours on Veterans Day?

No. Some states keep certain locations open while others close. Check your state's holiday schedule to see which offices near you will be open and what hours they will keep. Your regular office may be closed while a location 20 miles away operates limited hours.

Will my license expire if I cannot visit the DMV on Veterans Day?

No. Your license expiration date does not change because the DMV is closed. You have until your actual expiration date to renew, so a Veterans Day closure will not cause your license to lapse. If your renewal important date falls shortly after Veterans Day, renew online or visit on November 10.

Where do I find my state's official DMV website to check holiday hours?

Search "[your state] DMV" in a web browser. The official website will end in .gov. Bookmark it so you can return to it directly in the future instead of clicking links in emails or search results, which may be fake.