The DMV Shutdown Is Coming In New York State

There is a temporary shutdown coming to all New York State Department of Motor Vehicle (DMV) locations as a new software system is installed statewide. This is not just happening in Erie County, every DMV office across New York will be affected. So what does this mean if you have DMV business to take care of?

If you’re planning to register a vehicle, renew a license, exchange plates, or handle any in-person DMV transaction, now is the time to plan ahead. Once the new system is installed, offices will reopen slowly to ensure staff are fully trained and operations run smoothly.

We spoke with Erie County Clerk Mickey Kearns about the transition. “We are modernizing, and this will bring more efficiency to the office,” Kearns said.

When the DMV Will Close

Friday, February 13 at noon – DMV offices close statewide
Saturday & Sunday – Closed
Monday – Closed for Presidents’ Day
Tuesday – Staff training day
Wednesday, February 18 – Offices reopen by appointment only

It’s important to remember this is a statewide closure. If you need to get something done, you won’t be able to visit a DMV office anywhere in New York during this period.

"All DMV offices serving Erie County will temporarily suspend operations over the Presidents’ Day weekend. Beginning Friday, February 13th at 12:00 p.m., all in-person DMV offices will close, with online and phone services unavailable statewide through Wednesday, February 18th".

Plan Ahead to Avoid Frustration

It never fails, the moment you need to take care of something at the DMV is when you realize there’s a closure. Consider this your reminder to either complete your DMV business before Friday at noon or schedule an appointment for when offices reopen on February 18.

Since the COVID pandemic, the DMV’s online appointment system has made visits far more efficient. When you book an appointment and arrive on time, you’re typically in and out quickly. The days of waiting in long lines for your number to be called are largely gone, thanks to online scheduling.

Read More: New York State to Require a License to Purchase a Bow?

According to Clerk Kearns, once the new software is in place, everyday tasks like registering a vehicle, renewing a license, or exchanging plates will become even faster and more efficient.

Bottom Line

The New York State DMV shutdown is coming up quickly. Offices will reopen Wednesday, February 18, by appointment only. Be sure to use the online system to schedule your visit and avoid delays.