Is the DMV Open on Columbus Day 2024?

Jessica Acosta

October 14, 2024 1:26PM EDT

WASHINGTON, D.C. - JUNE 24: Garry Scott, 68, makes a stop at the Department of Motor Vehicles Benning Ridge Service Center to request information and turn in old license plates on Thursday, June 24, 2021 in Washington, D.C. Mr. Scott made an appointment at the the DMV location weeks prior to renew his license after Mayor Muriel Bowser announced a four-month amnesty program for drivers. However, when he arrived he was frustrated to find that the program was aimed to give an opportunity to pay outstanding tickets with the penalties waived but the original fines still remained. "I came back to get information and badge info to file an incident report with special police regarding a previous incident during a scheduled appointment on the 15th," said Scott of an issue that resulted with security personnel during his appointment. (Photo by Amanda Voisard/for The Washington Post via Getty Images)

The Washington Post via Getty Im

Columbus Day is considered a federal holiday, leading many government offices, including the Department of Motor Vehicles, to close. Find out if the DMV is closed on this holiday and what services may be affected.

Columbus Day, also known as Indigenous Peoples’ Day, falls on the second Monday in October each year. This recognized holiday leads to closures at important government offices, including the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), which tends to be busy every day. Learn if the DMV is open today, on Columbus Day, below.

Elias Dubaie ( center l to r) of San Francisco and Kahlai Pratt of San Francisco watch a sign board while they wait in line to apply for the Real ID at the DMV on Fell Street on Friday, January 24, 2020 in San Francisco, Calif. (Photo By Lea Suzuki/The San Francisco Chronicle via Getty Images)

Is Today a National Holiday?

Monday, October 14, 2024, is recognized as a federal holiday, marking Christopher Columbus’s arrival in America in 1492. Over the years, many have reflected on the explorer’s life and treatment of Indigenous people, leading some states to recognize the day as Indigenous Peoples’ Day.

According to the White House website, President Joe Biden stated in a proclamation, ” In commemoration of Christopher Columbus’ historic voyage 532 years ago, the Congress, by joint resolution of April 30, 1934, and modified in 1968 (36 U.S.C. 107), as amended, has requested the President proclaim the second Monday of October of each year as ‘Columbus Day.'”

He added, “I call upon the people of the United States to observe this day with appropriate ceremonies and activities.” The 46th president continued, “I also direct that the flag of the United States be displayed on all public buildings on the appointed day in honor of our diverse history and the Indigenous peoples who contribute to shaping this Nation.“

Is the DMV Open on Columbus Day 2024?

The DMV is closed on Columbus Day, as it is a government office that observes the holiday. It is not the only place closed; all federal offices and courts will be closed, and some banks, such as Wells Fargo and Bank of America, may also be closed. Additionally, the post office will be closed, so those expecting mail may experience delays due to the holiday.

What Businesses Are Open Today?

Aside from government offices, many grocery stores and retail establishments are open today, according to ABC 10. While some banks and post offices are closed, restaurants and other businesses continue normal operations.