DMV Services in Arleta and Van Nuys: What's Available at Each Location

Where to Find DMV Services in Arleta and Van Nuys

Arleta and Van Nuys are both served by California Department of Motor Vehicles offices, but they are separate locations with different hours and services. The Van Nuys DMV is the larger, full-service office located at 14600 Vanowen Street, Van Nuys, CA 91405. The Arleta DMV is a smaller office at 14300 Van Nuys Boulevard, Arleta, CA 91331. Both handle driver's licenses, vehicle registration, and address changes, but Arleta has more limited hours and does not offer all services that Van Nuys does.

If you need to renew a license or register a vehicle, either location can help you. However, if you need a commercial driver's license, a Real ID, or certain specialized services, Van Nuys is more likely to have availability. Checking which office handles your specific need before you go saves a trip.

Key Takeaways

Van Nuys DMV is a full-service office at 14600 Vanowen Street and handles all standard DMV transactions, while Arleta at 14300 Van Nuys Boulevard is smaller and has limited hours.
Both offices handle driver's license renewals, vehicle registration, and address changes, but Van Nuys offers more specialized services like Real ID and commercial licenses.
Hours differ between the two locations, so check the California DMV website or call ahead before visiting either office.
Both offices use the same appointment system through the California DMV website, and walk-ins are accepted when appointments are not available.

Services Available at Van Nuys DMV

The Van Nuys office is the primary DMV location for the San Fernando Valley and handles the full range of California DMV services. You can renew or replace a driver's license, register or renew vehicle registration, transfer a title, obtain a Real ID, explore for a commercial driver's license, and update your address on your license or registration. This office also handles duplicate documents, license suspensions, and reinstatement requests.

Because Van Nuys is a full-service office, it typically has more staff and longer hours than Arleta. If you need a service that requires a photograph, a written test, or a driving test, Van Nuys is equipped to handle it. The office also processes transactions for people who need to renew or change their status quickly.

Services Available at Arleta DMV

The Arleta office is a smaller location that handles basic transactions. You can renew a driver's license by mail or in person, register a vehicle, renew registration, and update your address. However, Arleta does not offer written tests, driving tests, or Real ID services. If you need a new license photo or a commercial license, you must go to Van Nuys or another full-service office.

Arleta is useful if you live or work nearby and need a quick transaction like a registration renewal or address change. For anything beyond routine renewals, plan to visit Van Nuys instead. The Arleta office also has more limited hours than Van Nuys, so confirm it is open before making the trip.

Hours and How to Make an Appointment

Both offices operate under the California DMV appointment system. You can book an appointment online at dmv.ca.gov or by calling 1-800-777-0133. Hours vary by location and change seasonally, so check the DMV website for current times before you visit. Van Nuys typically has longer hours, including some evening appointments, while Arleta has more limited availability.

Walk-ins are accepted at both locations when appointments are not available, but wait times can be long during peak hours. Arriving early in the morning or on weekday afternoons usually means shorter waits. If you book an appointment, arrive 10 to 15 minutes early with all required documents.

Documents You Need for Common Transactions

For a driver's license renewal, bring your current license, proof of residency (a utility bill or lease dated within the last 60 days), and proof of identity if your license has expired. For vehicle registration renewal, bring your current registration, proof of insurance, and payment. For an address change, bring your current license or registration and proof of your new address.

If you are explore for a Real ID or a commercial license, requirements are more extensive and include proof of citizenship, Social Security number verification, and additional identity documents. The DMV website lists the full document checklist for each transaction type. Bringing everything at once prevents a return trip.

Parking and Getting to Each Location

The Van Nuys office at 14600 Vanowen Street has a parking lot with free parking for DMV customers. The lot fills up during peak hours, so arriving early improves your chances of finding a spot. Public transit options include Metro bus lines that serve the area; check Metro's website for routes and schedules.

The Arleta office at 14300 Van Nuys Boulevard also has parking available. Both locations are in commercial areas with street parking nearby if the lot is full. If you use public transit, allow extra time for travel and check routes before your appointment.

When to Choose Each Location

Choose Van Nuys if you need a Real ID, a commercial driver's license, a written or driving test, a new photo, or any service beyond a straightforward renewal. Van Nuys also has more appointment availability and longer hours, so if you are flexible on timing, it is often easier to get an appointment there.

Choose Arleta if you live or work in that area and only need a routine renewal or address change. Arleta is smaller and may have shorter wait times for basic transactions, but confirm the office offers your specific service before you go. If you are unsure whether Arleta handles what you need, call ahead or check the DMV website.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my driver's license at Arleta?

Yes, Arleta handles driver's license renewals for people whose licenses are still valid or expired less than five years. If your license expired more than five years ago or you need a new photo, you must visit Van Nuys or another full-service office.

Do I need an appointment or can I just walk in?

Both offices accept walk-ins, but appointments are faster and reduce wait time. You can book an appointment online at dmv.ca.gov or by phone at 1-800-777-0133. Walk-in wait times vary by time of day and location.

What is the difference between a Real ID and a regular driver's license?

A Real ID is a federal standard that allows you to use your license for domestic air travel and entry to federal buildings. Only Van Nuys and other full-service offices issue Real IDs. A regular license works for driving but not for federal ID purposes as of May 2025.

Can I change my address at either location?

Yes, both Arleta and Van Nuys can update your address on your driver's license or vehicle registration. Bring your current license or registration and proof of your new address, such as a utility bill or lease.

What if I need a commercial driver's license?

Commercial driver's licenses are only issued at full-service offices like Van Nuys. You must pass a written test and a driving test, which Arleta does not offer. Schedule an appointment at Van Nuys and bring all required documents for commercial licensing.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.