Most DMVs are closed on Columbus Day, but some states treat it differently

Columbus Day is a federal holiday, and most state DMVs follow the federal holiday schedule — meaning they close on the second Monday in October. However, not every state observes Columbus Day the same way. Some states have renamed the holiday or do not recognize it at all, which affects whether your local DMV will be open.

The safest approach is to check your state DMV's website directly for its holiday schedule, because the rules vary by state and sometimes by individual office location. A few states keep some offices open on Columbus Day even when others close, and a handful do not observe the holiday at all.

Key Takeaways

  • Most state DMVs close on Columbus Day (the second Monday in October) because it is a federal holiday.
  • Some states have renamed Columbus Day to Indigenous Peoples' Day or Native American Day, but still close their DMVs on that date.
  • A small number of states, including Hawaii, South Carolina, and Nevada, do not observe Columbus Day and may keep DMVs open.
  • Your state DMV website lists its full holiday schedule, and you should check there before planning a visit on or near Columbus Day.
  • If your local office is closed, you can often use online services or visit on the next business day instead.

States that close DMVs on Columbus Day

The majority of states close their DMV offices on Columbus Day. This includes California, New York, Florida, Texas, Pennsylvania, Illinois, Ohio, Michigan, North Carolina, Georgia, and most others. The closure applies to all state-run DMV locations on that day, though some states may offer limited online services.

Even states that have officially renamed the holiday still close their DMVs. For example, Vermont, Maine, and New Mexico now call it Indigenous Peoples' Day, but their DMVs remain closed on the second Monday in October. The name change reflects a shift in how the state recognizes the day, but the closure schedule does not change.

States that do not observe Columbus Day

A small number of states do not observe Columbus Day at all, which means their DMVs may operate on a normal schedule. Hawaii, South Carolina, and Nevada are the main states in this category. In these states, Columbus Day is not a state holiday, so DMV offices typically remain open unless they are closed for another reason.

Arizona and New Mexico have their own variations. Arizona observes the day but calls it Native American Day, and DMVs close. New Mexico also recognizes Indigenous Peoples' Day on that date and closes DMVs. If you live in or are traveling to one of these states, confirm the specific office's schedule on the state DMV website.

How to find your state DMV's holiday schedule

The fastest way to know whether your DMV will be open is to visit your state's official DMV website and look for the holiday schedule or hours page. Most states list their full calendar of closures for the year, including Columbus Day. You can usually find this information under "Hours," "Locations," or "Contact Us."

If you cannot find the schedule online, call your local DMV office directly. The phone number is on the state website, and staff can tell you whether that specific location will be closed on Columbus Day. Some larger cities have multiple offices, and occasionally one location may have different hours than another.

What to do if your DMV is closed on Columbus Day

If you need to handle DMV business and your office is closed, you have several options. Many states allow you to renew your license, register a vehicle, or update your address online without visiting an office. Check your state DMV website to see which services are available through their online portal.

You can also plan to visit the day before (Sunday, if the office is open) or the day after Columbus Day. If you need service urgently, some states operate DMV kiosks at grocery stores, pharmacies, or other locations that may have different hours. Another option is to visit a different DMV office in your area if one is open — though this works only if you live in a state or region with multiple offices nearby.

Planning ahead for Columbus Day closures

If you know you will need DMV services in October, plan your visit for early in the month or after Columbus Day. Waiting until the week of the holiday increases the risk of finding your office closed or facing longer wait times the day before or after, when other people are also trying to get in.

If your license expires around Columbus Day or you need to register a vehicle by that date, handle it earlier in the month. Many states allow you to renew your license up to six months before expiration, so you have flexibility. Starting the process online (if your state offers it) can also save you a trip to the office entirely.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will my DMV be open on Columbus Day?

Most DMVs close on Columbus Day because it is a federal holiday. However, Hawaii, South Carolina, and Nevada do not observe Columbus Day, so their DMVs may be open. Check your state DMV website or call your local office to confirm.

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

Many states offer online renewal for driver's licenses and vehicle registration. Visit your state DMV website to see which services are available without visiting an office. This is often the fastest option if your local office is closed.

What if I have an appointment on Columbus Day?

If you scheduled an appointment before realizing the office is closed, contact the DMV as soon as possible to reschedule. Most states allow you to book appointments online or by phone. Call the office directly if you cannot reschedule through the website.

Are DMV kiosks open on Columbus Day?

Some states operate DMV kiosks at grocery stores, pharmacies, or other locations. These may have different hours than the main office. Check your state DMV website to find kiosk locations near you and their holiday hours.

What services can I do online instead of visiting the DMV?

Most states allow online renewal of licenses and vehicle registration, address changes, and duplicate license requests. Some states also let you pay tickets or fines online. Visit your state DMV website to see the full list of services available without an office visit.