If you have a driver’s license renewal, vehicle registration, or any other DMV business on your to-do list for February, you might want to check the calendar. The New York State Department of Motor Vehicles has announced a statewide shutdown of all offices and services for mid-February.
Here is everything you need to know to avoid getting stuck in a scheduling bind.
When is the closure?
The DMV will be closing its doors beginning at 2:00 PM on Friday, February 13, and will remain closed through Tuesday, February 17.
Normal business hours are expected to resume on Wednesday, February 18.
Which services are affected?
This isn’t just a closure of the physical branch offices. The shutdown is part of a massive technology overhaul to replace aging computer systems. Consequently, online transactions and phone services will also be offline during this five-day period. You will not be able to renew documents or schedule appointments online while the system is down.
What should you do?
If you have any time-sensitive issues (such as a license or registration expiring around these dates), we strongly recommend you schedule an appointment or complete your transaction prior to February 13.
What to expect when they reopen?
While offices will reopen on February 18, the DMV has advised customers to expect longer wait times than usual. As staff navigate the new software and work through the backlog from the closure, lines may be long. If your business isn’t urgent, you might save yourself some frustration by waiting a few days after the reopening to visit.
Mark your calendars and get your paperwork done early!
