DMV Virginia Hours: Plan Your Visit

Most Virginia DMV offices are open Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Select locations also offer Saturday hours. Knowing your office’s schedule before you go saves a wasted trip.

Last updated: June 2026 | Source: Virginia DMV Official Website

Introduction

Virginia DMV offices handle driver’s licenses, vehicle registration, title transfers, and road tests. Hours and available services vary by location, so confirm with your specific office before your visit.

DMV Virginia Hours

Before heading to the DMV, check the hours for your specific office. Not all locations keep the same schedule, and hours often change around state holidays.

Weekday Hours

Most Virginia DMV offices are open Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Hours vary by location — use the office finder at dmv.virginia.gov to confirm your local office’s exact schedule.

Saturday Hours

Select Virginia DMV offices are open on Saturdays, typically from 8:00 a.m. to noon. These slots book up fast, so schedule early if you plan to go on a Saturday.

Sunday Hours

Virginia DMV offices are closed on Sundays. Saturday appointments at extended-hours locations are the only in-person weekend option — or use the online portal for eligible transactions.

Holiday Closures

Virginia DMV offices close on all state holidays. If your visit falls near a holiday, check the DMV website to confirm the office will be open before making the trip.

Extended Hours

During busy periods, some offices extend their hours temporarily. Check dmv.virginia.gov for your location’s current schedule before your visit.

When Does the DMV Close in VA?

Scheduling an Appointment

Book your appointment at dmv.virginia.gov before going in. Walk-ins are accepted, but scheduled customers are served first and wait times are significantly shorter.

Online Services

Virginia DMV handles many transactions online — license renewals, registration renewals, address changes, and duplicate documents don’t require an office visit. Check dmv.virginia.gov to see if your transaction qualifies.

Introducing the Virginia DMV Appointment System – An Efficient Way to Book Your Appointment

Preparing for Your Visit

Bring the right documents and you’ll be in and out quickly. Missing paperwork is the most common reason customers have to make a second trip.

1. Gather Required Documents: Before visiting the DMV, make a checklist of the documents you need for your specific transaction. Whether it’s renewing your driver’s license or registering a vehicle, having all the necessary paperwork ready will save you time and prevent any delays.
2. Complete Forms in Advance: Many transactions at the DMV require filling out forms. To expedite the process, download and complete the necessary forms beforehand. This will streamline your visit and minimize the time spent at the DMV office.
3. Double-Check Requirements: DMV Virginia may have specific requirements for certain transactions. Take the time to review the DMV’s website or contact their customer service to ensure you have all the necessary documents and meet any additional criteria.

Required Documentation

What you need depends on your transaction. Renewals typically require your current license and payment. New licenses and title transfers need identity documents, proof of residency, and sometimes a vehicle inspection report.

• Driver’s License Renewal: Current driver’s license, proof of address, and payment for the renewal fee.
• Vehicle Registration: Vehicle title, proof of insurance, emissions test results (if applicable), and payment for registration fees.
• License Plate Transfer: Vehicle title, current license plates, proof of insurance, and payment for transfer fees.

Review the document requirements for your specific transaction at dmv.virginia.gov before your visit. Showing up with incomplete paperwork means a second trip.

Renewing Your Driver’s License

Renew your driver’s license at least 60 days before it expires. Most customers can renew online at dmv.virginia.gov in about five minutes. In-person and mail-in renewals are also available.

1. Check Eligibility: Verify if you are eligible for online renewal. DMV Virginia offers online renewal options for certain cases.
2. Gather Required Documents: Collect your current driver’s license, proof of address, and payment for the renewal fee.
3. Schedule an Appointment: If required, schedule an appointment or check the walk-in hours for your local DMV office.
4. Visit the DMV: Arrive at the DMV office at your scheduled appointment time or during walk-in hours. Present your documents and complete any necessary forms.
5. Take a New Photo: In some cases, you may need to have a new photo taken for your driver’s license. Follow the instructions provided by the DMV staff.
6. Take the Knowledge Test: If your driver’s license renewal requires a knowledge test, you will be directed to a testing area. Follow the instructions provided and complete the test.

7. Pay the Renewal Fee: Once all the necessary steps are completed, pay the renewal fee either at the counter or online, depending on the DMV’s procedures.
8. Receive Temporary License: After successfully renewing your driver’s license, you may receive a temporary license while your new one is being processed. The temporary license will be valid until you receive the updated card in the mail.

Vehicle Registration

To register a vehicle, bring your title, proof of insurance, and payment for registration fees. If the vehicle was recently purchased, include the sales agreement.

1. Prepare Required Documents: Gather the necessary documents, including the vehicle title, proof of insurance, emissions test results (if applicable), and payment for registration fees.
2. Schedule an Appointment or Visit Walk-In: Check if you need to schedule an appointment for vehicle registration or if walk-ins are allowed. Plan your visit accordingly.
3. Complete the Application Form: Fill out the vehicle registration application form with accurate information. You can download the form from the DMV Virginia website or obtain it at the office.
4. Submit Documents and Pay Fees: Present your completed application form, vehicle title, proof of insurance, emissions test results (if applicable), and payment for registration fees to the DMV staff. They will review the documents and process your registration.
5. Receive Registration Documents: Once the registration process is complete, you will receive your registration card, license plates, and stickers. Make sure to place the license plates on your vehicle as instructed.

License Plate Transfer

Transferring plates requires both vehicle titles and a plate transfer form. Any Virginia DMV office can process this transaction.

1. Obtain the necessary documents: You’ll need the current registration card for the vehicle the plate is currently on, the new vehicle’s title, and proof of insurance for the new vehicle.
2. Visit your local Virginia DMV office: Go to your local DMV office, and bring the necessary documents with you.
3. Complete the application: Fill out the Application for Transfer of Registration (Form VSA-14). You can fill out this form online or in person at the DMV office.
4. Pay the fees: There is a $10 transfer fee for transferring a license plate in Virginia. You can pay by cash, check, or credit/debit card.
5. Receive your new registration: Once the transfer is complete, you’ll receive a new registration card for the new vehicle with the transferred license plate.
6. Install the license plate: Make sure to install the license plate on the new vehicle as soon as possible. Virginia law requires license plates to be displayed on the front and rear of the vehicle at all times.

How to Return Plates to DMV VA

Conclusion: DMV Virginia Hours

Check your local office hours at dmv.virginia.gov before you go. Book an appointment, bring the right documents, and most transactions take 15–30 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I visit any DMV Virginia office for my transaction? 

Yes, most transactions can be completed at any Virginia DMV office. A few specialized services — like commercial vehicle inspections — are only available at select locations.

2. Can I renew my driver’s license online? 

Yes. License and registration renewals, address changes, and duplicate document requests can all be handled online at dmv.virginia.gov.

3. How early should I arrive for my scheduled appointment? 

Arrive at least 10 minutes before your scheduled appointment. If you’re more than 15 minutes late, you may need to reschedule.

4. Can I complete my transaction at DMV Virginia without an appointment? 

Walk-ins are accepted at most Virginia DMV offices. Scheduled appointments are served first, so expect a longer wait if you go without one.

5. How long does it take to receive the renewed driver’s license or registration documents? 

Most in-person transactions take 15–30 minutes once you’re called. Complex transactions like title transfers may take longer. Arriving with all required documents keeps things moving.