Most DMVs are closed on Juneteenth, but check your state first

Juneteenth (June 19) is a federal holiday, which means most state DMVs observe it and do not operate that day. However, not every state treats federal holidays the same way. Some DMVs stay open, some close only their main offices while keeping satellite locations running, and a few operate on a modified schedule. You cannot assume your local DMV is closed without checking.

The safest approach is to visit your state DMV's website or call your local office directly before planning a trip on or around June 19. A five-minute call saves a wasted trip, and staff can also tell you if they have adjusted hours on the day before or after the holiday.

Key Takeaways

  • Juneteenth is a federal holiday, so most state DMVs close on June 19, but not all states follow this rule uniformly.
  • Some states keep satellite or regional DMV offices open while closing their main headquarters on Juneteenth.
  • The only way to know your specific DMV's status is to check your state's DMV website or call the office directly.
  • If your DMV is closed on June 19, you can often schedule an appointment for June 20 or the following Monday if June 20 falls on a weekend.

How to learn about your DMV is open on Juneteenth

Start by going to your state DMV's official website. Most states post holiday closures prominently on their homepage or in an "Hours" or "Locations" section. Look for a calendar or a list labeled "Closed Holidays" or "Holiday Schedule." If you find the information there, you have your answer.

If the website does not clearly state the closure, call your local DMV office directly. Have your zip code or county ready so you can ask about the specific location you plan to visit. The staff member can tell you whether that office is closed on Juneteenth and what hours they will keep on nearby dates. Many DMVs also list phone numbers and hours on Google Maps, which updates regularly.

States that typically close on Juneteenth

Most states close their DMVs on Juneteenth because it is a federal holiday and state employees observe it. This includes large states like California, Texas, New York, and Florida, as well as smaller states. However, "most" does not mean "all," and closure policies can change year to year or vary by location within a state.

Some states close only their main DMV headquarters but keep branch offices open in certain cities or counties. Others close all offices statewide. A few states have experimented with keeping certain services available online or by appointment even on holidays. The only reliable source is your state's official DMV website or a direct phone call.

What to do if your DMV is closed on June 19

If you need to visit the DMV around Juneteenth, plan ahead by scheduling an appointment for June 18 or June 20 if those dates work for you. Many states now allow online appointment scheduling weeks in advance, which gives you flexibility to pick a date when you know the office will be open.

If you have an urgent need — such as a license that expires on June 19 or a vehicle registration due that day — contact your DMV by phone or email as soon as possible. Some states allow you to renew licenses or registrations online or by mail, which bypasses the need to visit in person. Ask whether your specific transaction can be handled remotely.

Planning around the Juneteenth holiday

If Juneteenth falls on a Wednesday or Thursday, your DMV is likely closed only that one day, and you can visit the day before or after. If June 19 falls on a Friday, some DMVs may close for a long weekend, so plan for June 18 or June 24. If it falls on a Monday, the same applies — check whether your state observes the holiday on the actual date or on the nearest weekday.

The week after Juneteenth is often busy because people reschedule appointments that were cancelled for the holiday. If you have flexibility, visiting the week before June 19 may mean shorter wait times and easier appointment availability.

Online and mail options during holiday closures

Many states now offer alternatives to in-person visits that do not depend on DMV office hours. License renewals, vehicle registration renewals, and address changes can often be completed online through your state DMV's website. Some states also accept mail-in applications for specific transactions.

If your task can be done online or by mail, you do not need to worry about Juneteenth closures at all. Check your state DMV's website for a list of services available remotely. This is often faster than visiting in person, even when the office is open.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my license or registration if the DMV is closed on Juneteenth?

Many states allow online renewal for licenses and registrations, which you can do any day including holidays. Check your state DMV website to see if your specific renewal can be completed online. If not, schedule an appointment for June 18 or June 20.

What if my license expires on June 19?

Contact your state DMV before that date to ask about grace periods or remote renewal options. Some states allow a short grace period after expiration, and others let you renew online even if the office is closed. Do not wait until June 19 to find out.

Are all DMV offices in my state closed on Juneteenth?

Not necessarily. Some states close only main offices while keeping satellite locations open. Call your specific local DMV or check your state's website to confirm whether the office nearest you is closed.

Can I schedule an appointment for June 19 if I book it in advance?

No. If your DMV is closed on Juneteenth, the scheduling system will not allow you to book that date. You will need to choose June 18, June 20, or another available date.

What should I do if I cannot reach my DMV by phone?

Try the state DMV website's chat feature or contact form if available. You can also visit in person on June 18 or June 20 to ask about services you need. Many DMVs also post holiday schedules on their social media pages.