Most DMV offices close on Presidents Day, but some stay open

Most state DMV offices are closed on Presidents Day (the third Monday in February), just as they are on other federal holidays. However, some states and individual locations operate on different schedules. A few states keep certain DMV offices open on Presidents Day, and some offer online services that run 24/7 regardless of the holiday. The safest approach is to check your specific state's DMV website or call your local office before you plan a visit.

Presidents Day is a federal holiday, which means most government offices — including the DMV — observe it. But the DMV is run by individual states, not the federal government, so each state sets its own holiday schedule. Some states follow the federal calendar exactly. Others have their own rules about which holidays trigger closures.

Key Takeaways

  • Most DMV offices close on Presidents Day, but you should verify your state's specific schedule before making a trip.
  • Some states keep select DMV locations open on Presidents Day, particularly in larger cities or at regional offices.
  • Online services like license renewal and address changes often work on Presidents Day even when physical offices are closed.
  • Calling ahead or checking your state DMV website takes two minutes and saves you a wasted trip.

How to learn about your DMV is open on Presidents Day

Start by visiting your state's official DMV website. Look for a page labeled "Hours," "Locations," "Holidays," or "Office Hours." Most state DMV sites have a holiday schedule posted, often showing which offices close and which stay open. If your state runs multiple DMV locations, some may be open while others are closed — this is common in larger states.

If you cannot find the information online, call your local DMV office directly. The phone number should be on the state website. Ask specifically: "Are you open on Presidents Day?" and "If not, when do you reopen?" This takes one phone call and removes all doubt. Many DMV offices have automated systems that tell you holiday hours before you reach a person.

States that typically keep DMV offices open on Presidents Day

A small number of states operate DMV offices on Presidents Day. California, Texas, and Florida have kept some locations open in past years, though this can change. New York has operated select DMV offices on Presidents Day in certain regions. However, "typically open" does not mean every location in that state is open — you still need to check your specific office.

Even if your state usually closes, individual offices sometimes stay open for special reasons (staffing, local demand, or pilot programs). The reverse is also true: a state that normally stays open might close a particular location. This is why checking your exact office matters more than knowing your state's general pattern.

What you can do online when the DMV is closed

Many DMV services work online or through mail on Presidents Day, even when offices are physically closed. License renewal, address changes, vehicle registration renewal, and duplicate license requests can often be completed through your state's online portal. These services typically run around the clock, seven days a week, regardless of holidays.

Check your state DMV website for an online services section. You will usually need your driver's license number, vehicle identification number (VIN), or other identifying information. Processing times for online requests vary — some states deliver results in days, others in weeks. If you need a physical document (like a new license card) before a specific date, online submission on Presidents Day may not meet your important date, so plan accordingly.

Planning ahead to avoid Presidents Day closures

Presidents Day falls on the same date every year (the third Monday in February), so you can plan around it. If you need to visit the DMV in February, schedule your trip for the week before or the week after Presidents Day. This avoids the holiday closure and also tends to mean shorter wait times — many people avoid government offices on or near holidays, which can actually work in your favor.

If your important date falls on or near Presidents Day, submit any online requests at least one week before the holiday. This gives the DMV time to process your request before the office closes and reopens. If you are mailing documents, send them earlier than you normally would — mail moves slower around holidays, and a closed office cannot process anything that arrives during the closure.

Scam alert: Fake DMV holiday notices

Scammers sometimes send emails or texts claiming the DMV is closed on a specific date and directing you to a fake website to "renew your license" or "check your status." These messages often create false urgency by saying your license will expire if you do not act when ready. Real DMV offices do not contact you this way.

If you receive an unsolicited email or text about DMV closures or services, do not click any links. Instead, go directly to your state's official DMV website by typing the address into your browser yourself. Legitimate government websites end in .gov. If you are unsure whether a message is real, call your local DMV office using the phone number from the official website.

What to do if you need DMV services on Presidents Day

If your important date is Presidents Day itself and you cannot use online services, you have a few options. First, check whether your state has any open locations — some states keep at least one office open in major cities. Second, see if you can move your important date by contacting whoever needs the DMV document (your employer, insurance company, or lender). Many organizations will accept a request submitted on Presidents Day even if the DMV cannot process it until the next business day.

Third, look into whether your state offers expedited processing. Some states charge a fee to prioritize your request when you reopen after the holiday. This is not the same as getting service on Presidents Day itself, but it can get you results faster than the standard timeline. Check your state DMV website or call to ask what expedited options exist.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Yes, most states allow online license renewal 24/7, including on Presidents Day. Visit your state DMV website and look for the online renewal option. You will need your current license number and other identifying information. Processing times vary by state, so check how long renewal takes before you submit.

What if I need a document from the DMV by Presidents Day?

Submit your request online at least one week before the holiday if possible. If you must mail documents, send them well in advance — mail is slower around holidays. If your important date is truly Presidents Day itself, call your local DMV to ask whether any offices are open or whether expedited processing is available after the holiday.

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

Many DMV offices now require appointments, but this varies by state and location. Check your state's website to see whether appointments are needed and whether you can book one for the day after the holiday. Offices are often busier the day after a closure, so book early if appointments are available.

Will my license expire if the DMV is closed on my renewal date?

No. If your renewal date falls on Presidents Day or shortly after, you are not penalized for the closure. Most states give you a grace period to renew after the official expiration date. However, do not wait — renew as soon as you can after the holiday to avoid driving with an expired license, which can result in a traffic stop.

Is there a way to know my state's DMV holiday schedule in advance?

Yes. Visit your state DMV website and look for a holiday calendar or annual hours schedule. Most states post their full holiday schedule at the start of the year. You can also call your local office and ask them to email or mail you a copy of their holiday schedule for the year.