If you need to renew your driver’s license, register a vehicle, or visit a local motor vehicle office, you may be wondering: Is the DMV open on Veterans Day 2026?
Most DMV offices are expected to be closed on Wednesday, November 11, 2026, because Veterans Day is a federal holiday observed by many state governments. However, DMV schedules are determined by individual states, so the exact closure policy can vary.
Before making a trip, check your state’s official DMV holiday schedule. You may also be able to complete certain services online while physical offices are closed.
Is the DMV Open on Veterans Day 2026?
Most DMV offices will be closed on Wednesday, November 11, 2026, for Veterans Day. However, there is no single nationwide DMV operating schedule.
Each state manages its own motor vehicle services and publishes its own holiday calendar. Some states close their offices for Veterans Day, while others may have different arrangements.
For example:
- California: DMV offices will be closed on November 11, 2026.
- Virginia: DMV customer service centers will be closed for Veterans Day.
- Maryland: MVA branch offices and full-service vehicle emissions inspection locations will be closed.
- North Carolina: Driver license offices and license plate agencies will observe Veterans Day as a 2026 state holiday.
These official state schedules show why it’s important to check your local agency before visiting.
Why Are DMV Offices Closed on Veterans Day?
Veterans Day is a federal holiday observed every year on November 11. It honors people who have served in the United States Armed Forces.
Many state governments also recognize Veterans Day as an official holiday and close their government offices, including motor vehicle service centers.
However, federal holiday status does not automatically require every state agency or private business to close. Each state establishes its own operating calendar.
You can learn more about the holiday’s meaning and history in our guide to what Veterans Day is and why it is observed.
Are DMV Offices Closed in Every State on Veterans Day?
No single national rule requires every state DMV to follow the same holiday schedule.
Most state motor vehicle agencies observe Veterans Day, but customers should confirm the policy in their state.
The following examples are based on official 2026 agency schedules:
| State | DMV or motor vehicle office schedule |
|---|---|
| California | Closed |
| Virginia | Closed |
| Maryland | Closed |
| North Carolina | Closed |
| Oregon | Closed |
| Pennsylvania | Closed |
These are examples, not a complete list of all 50 states. Check your own state’s official agency website for the latest information.
California DMV
The California DMV lists Wednesday, November 11, 2026, as Veterans Day on its official holiday calendar. All DMV offices will be closed that day.
You can check the California DMV holiday schedule for its complete list of 2026 closures.
Virginia DMV
The Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles includes November 11, 2026, in its state holiday closure schedule.
Customers can still access many services online, including certain license and registration transactions.
Visit the Virginia DMV 2026 holiday schedule for details.
Maryland MVA
Maryland’s Motor Vehicle Administration has announced that all MVA branch offices and full-service Vehicle Emissions Inspection Program locations will be closed on Wednesday, November 11, 2026.
Normal operations are scheduled to resume on Thursday, November 12.
Customers can use Maryland MVA’s holiday and closure information to check the schedule and available online services.
North Carolina DMV
North Carolina’s official 2026 holiday calendar lists Veterans Day as a closure date for driver license offices and license plate agencies.
The agency also encourages customers to check whether their transactions can be completed online.
Visit the North Carolina DMV holiday schedule for more information.
Oregon DMV
Oregon DMV lists November 11, 2026, as a statewide holiday closure. Its published schedule applies to DMV offices across the state.
Customers can review the Oregon DMV office closure calendar before planning a visit.
Pennsylvania PennDOT
PennDOT announced that its driver license and photo centers will be closed on Wednesday, November 11, 2026.
The announcement also explains that customers can access several driver and vehicle services online.
Read the official PennDOT Veterans Day closure announcement for details.
Can You Renew Your Driver’s License Online on Veterans Day?
In many states, yes. Physical DMV offices may be closed, but online services can remain available during Veterans Day.
Depending on your state and eligibility, you may be able to:
- Renew your driver’s license.
- Renew your vehicle registration.
- Request a duplicate driver’s license or ID.
- Update your mailing address.
- Pay certain vehicle or license-related fees.
- Check your driving record.
- Access registration and licensing documents.
Not every transaction is available online. Some services require an in-person visit, identity verification, a vision test, a photograph, or other documentation.
Check your state’s official DMV website to see which transactions you can complete without visiting an office.
Can You Make a DMV Appointment for Veterans Day?
You generally cannot attend a regular in-person DMV appointment while the relevant office is closed for the holiday.
If your state DMV closes on November 11, appointments and in-person services will normally resume according to the agency’s next operating day.
If you already have an appointment scheduled near Veterans Day, check your appointment confirmation and the agency’s holiday announcement.
It is better to reschedule in advance than to travel to an office that is not accepting customers.
Is the DMV Open the Day After Veterans Day 2026?
Veterans Day 2026 falls on Wednesday, November 11.
For states that close their DMV offices on the holiday, normal services are generally expected to resume on Thursday, November 12, 2026.
However, local office hours, staffing, appointments, and additional closures can vary. Check your state agency’s website before visiting.
What Other Government Offices Are Closed on Veterans Day?
DMV offices are not the only government services that may close for Veterans Day.
Federal government offices observe the holiday, and many state and local government agencies also close.
Depending on the location, this may affect:
- Government administrative offices.
- Driver licensing centers.
- Vehicle registration offices.
- Public service centers.
- Some local government departments.
Other services may operate on modified schedules. For a broader overview, read our guide to what is open and closed on Veterans Day 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the DMV open on November 11, 2026?
Most DMV offices are expected to be closed on Wednesday, November 11, 2026, for Veterans Day. However, schedules are determined by individual states, so check your local agency’s official holiday calendar.
Are all DMV offices closed on Veterans Day?
Not necessarily. Many state motor vehicle agencies observe Veterans Day, but there is no single national DMV schedule. Check your state’s official website for confirmation.
Is Veterans Day a federal holiday?
Yes. Veterans Day is a federal holiday observed every year on November 11. In 2026, it falls on Wednesday.
Can I renew my driver’s license online on Veterans Day?
Many states offer online driver’s license and vehicle registration services that remain accessible during holidays. Availability depends on your state and the type of transaction.
Is the DMV open on Thursday, November 12, 2026?
DMV offices that close for Veterans Day are generally expected to resume normal operations on Thursday, November 12. Confirm your local office’s schedule before visiting.
Are DMV appointments canceled on Veterans Day?
If a DMV office is closed on November 11, regular in-person appointments will not take place there. Check the agency’s instructions for rescheduling or confirming an appointment.
Are vehicle registration offices closed on Veterans Day?
Many state vehicle registration offices observe the same holiday schedule as their motor vehicle agencies. However, local offices and third-party service providers may have different arrangements.
Final Thoughts
Most DMV offices are expected to be closed on Veterans Day 2026, Wednesday, November 11. However, the exact schedule depends on the state and motor vehicle agency.
If you need a driver’s license renewal, vehicle registration, or another in-person service, check your state’s official holiday calendar before making a trip.
You may also be able to complete your transaction online while physical offices are closed.
For more information about holiday schedules across the United States, visit MemorialDayUSA.net.