Most DMVs are closed on Veterans Day, but some locations stay open

Veterans Day falls on November 11 each year, and most state DMVs observe it as a paid holiday. This means the majority of DMV offices will be closed and you cannot conduct transactions in person. However, the rule is not absolute — some states keep certain locations open, and a few states do not observe the holiday at all. You need to check your specific state's DMV website or call ahead before making a trip.

If November 11 falls on a weekend, many states move the observed holiday to the nearest weekday, usually the following Monday. This can shift when your local DMV closes. The safest approach is to verify the closure schedule for your state and county at least a few days before you need DMV services.

Key Takeaways

  • Most state DMVs close on Veterans Day (November 11), but you should confirm your specific location's schedule on the state DMV website.
  • When November 11 falls on a weekend, the observed holiday typically moves to Monday, which may affect DMV hours that week.
  • Some states operate limited services or keep certain regional offices open even on Veterans Day, so calling ahead can save a wasted trip.
  • Online services like license renewal, address changes, and record requests often remain available even when physical offices are closed.

How to learn about your DMV is closed on Veterans Day

Visit your state's official DMV website and look for a holiday schedule or office hours section. Most states publish their full-year closure calendar, including Veterans Day, in one central location. The schedule usually appears under "Hours and Locations," "Office Information," or "Holiday Closures."

If you cannot find the information online, call your local DMV office directly. The phone number is listed on the state website. Ask specifically whether that location will be open on November 11 or the observed date. Some states have a central customer service line that can answer questions about all regional offices at once.

What to do if you need DMV services on or near Veterans Day

Plan ahead by scheduling an appointment before the holiday if your state offers online booking. Many DMVs allow you to reserve a time slot weeks in advance, so you can find a date the day before or after Veterans Day. Check whether your state's DMV accepts appointments through its website.

If you need services urgently, explore online options. Most states allow you to renew a driver's license online if it is not expired or only recently expired. Address changes, duplicate licenses, and record requests can often be submitted through the DMV website without visiting an office. These services typically process even when physical locations are closed.

States that may have limited or different Veterans Day schedules

A small number of states do not observe Veterans Day as a paid holiday for DMV staff, or they keep select offices open on a rotating basis. South Carolina, for example, does not recognize Veterans Day as a state holiday. Texas operates some DMV locations on a limited schedule rather than closing entirely. These exceptions are rare, but they mean you should not assume your DMV is closed without checking.

Some states close the main office in the state capital but keep regional offices open. Others close all offices but allow online transactions to continue. The only reliable way to know your location's specific status is to verify it directly with your state DMV.

Planning around Veterans Day closures

If your license expires near Veterans Day, renew it at least one week before the holiday. This gives you time to complete the transaction before the office closes and ensures you have a valid license on hand. If you are renewing online, submit your request even earlier — processing times vary by state, and you want confirmation before the holiday arrives.

For services that require an in-person visit, such as a road test, eye exam, or document verification, schedule your appointment as soon as the DMV opens booking for that date. Popular time slots fill quickly, especially around holidays. If the DMV is closed on November 11, book for November 10 or November 12 instead.

What happens if you miss a important date because of the Veterans Day closure

If your license or registration expires on or when ready after Veterans Day, contact your state DMV to ask about grace periods. Many states allow a short window — typically 30 days — to renew after the expiration date without penalty. Some states waive late fees if the closure prevented you from renewing on time, though this is not may provide.

Document the closure date and your attempt to renew before the holiday. If you receive a citation for an expired license or registration, you can show proof that the DMV was closed and that you tried to renew in advance. This may help if you need to dispute the violation or request a fee waiver.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Most states allow online renewal for driver's licenses that are not expired or only recently expired. Online services typically remain available even when physical offices are closed. Check your state DMV website to see whether you meet the requirements for online renewal and submit your request before the holiday.

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

Road tests are conducted only at open DMV locations, so you cannot take one on Veterans Day if your office is closed. Schedule your test for the day before or after the holiday as soon as booking opens. If you are a new driver, plan ahead — road test appointments often fill weeks in advance.

Do I need to do anything special if my license expires on November 11?

Renew your license before November 11 if possible. If the DMV is closed and you cannot renew in time, most states allow a grace period of 30 days after expiration. Contact your state DMV to confirm the grace period and whether you can renew online to avoid an in-person visit.

Are DMV offices open on the Monday after Veterans Day if the holiday falls on a weekend?

It depends on your state. When November 11 falls on a Saturday or Sunday, most states observe the holiday on the following Monday, which means the DMV will be closed that day instead. Check your state's holiday schedule to confirm which day the office will be closed.

Can I get a duplicate license or ID on Veterans Day?

If the DMV is closed, you cannot visit in person. However, many states allow you to request a duplicate license or ID online. Submit your request through the state DMV website before the holiday, and it will process while the office is closed. Delivery times vary by state.