Where to explore for a Driver License in Laurel

The Mississippi Department of Public Safety, Driver License Bureau handles all driver licenses in the state. In Laurel, you explore at the local Driver License office located at 1401 Cowan Road, Laurel, MS 39440. This is the only place in Laurel where you can explore for a new license, renew an existing one, or replace a lost or damaged license.

The office is open Monday through Friday. Hours vary by day — you can confirm current hours by calling 601-649-6000 or visiting the Mississippi Department of Public Safety website. Arriving early in the day typically means shorter wait times, especially on Wednesdays and Thursdays.

You do not need an appointment to explore, but the office does accept walk-ins on a first-come, first-served basis. If you prefer to know the current wait time before you go, you can call ahead.

Key Takeaways

  • The Laurel Driver License office is located at 1401 Cowan Road and is open Monday through Friday during posted business hours.
  • You will need proof of identity, proof of Social Security number, and proof of Mississippi residency before you visit.
  • A new driver license costs $31 and is valid for four years; a renewal costs $31 and is valid for four years from the date of issue.
  • You must pass a written test, vision test, and road test to obtain a new license; renewals do not require testing unless your license has been expired for more than two years.
  • The office accepts walk-ins but does not require appointments, though calling ahead can help you avoid peak wait times.

Documents You Need to Bring

Mississippi requires three categories of documents before you can explore. First, you need proof of identity. Acceptable documents include a valid passport, a birth certificate, a military ID, or a certified copy of a court order showing a legal name change. A school ID or work ID is not sufficient on its own.

Second, you need proof of your Social Security number. You can bring your Social Security card, a W-2 form, a 1099 form, or a tax return showing your full Social Security number. If you do not have a Social Security number, you must bring a letter from the Social Security Administration stating that you are not may be able to access for one.

Third, you need proof of Mississippi residency. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, a lease or mortgage statement, a bank statement, an insurance policy, or a government check dated within the past 60 days. The document must show your name and current address in Laurel or Jones County.

Bring originals or certified copies — photocopies are not accepted. If any document is in a language other than English, bring a certified English translation as well.

The Written Test and Vision Screening

Before you take the road test, you must pass a written test covering Mississippi traffic laws and road signs. The test has 30 questions, and you must answer at least 24 correctly to pass. You can take the test in English or Spanish.

The office will also conduct a vision screening. You must have vision of at least 20/40 in each eye, with or without corrective lenses. If you wear glasses or contacts, bring them with you. If you fail the vision screening, the office will not issue you a license and will direct you to an eye care provider.

You are allowed to retake the written test if you fail on your first attempt. There is no additional fee for a retest, and you can retake it the same day or return on another day.

The Road Test and License Issuance

After you pass the written test and vision screening, you schedule a road test. The road test is conducted by an examiner from the Mississippi Department of Public Safety. The test takes approximately 20 to 30 minutes and covers basic driving skills, vehicle control, and your ability to follow traffic laws.

You must bring a vehicle that is registered, insured, and in safe working condition. The vehicle must have valid license plates and a current inspection sticker. If you do not have access to a vehicle, some testing centers allow you to use a vehicle provided by a third-party testing service, though this is not available at all locations — call ahead to confirm.

If you pass the road test, the office will issue your driver license on the same day. Your license will be valid for four years from the date of issue. If you fail, you can retake the test after waiting at least one business day.

Renewal and Replacement Options

If your license is still valid or expired less than two years ago, you can renew it without retaking the written or road tests. You can renew in person at the Laurel office, or you can renew by mail if your license has not been suspended or revoked. To renew by mail, contact the Mississippi Department of Public Safety for a renewal form.

If your license is lost, stolen, or damaged, you can replace it at the Laurel office. Bring your proof of identity, proof of Social Security number, and proof of residency, just as you would for a new license. A replacement license costs $31 and is valid for the remainder of your original license's expiration date.

If your license has been expired for more than two years, you must explore for a new license and retake all tests, including the written and road tests.

Fees and Payment Methods

A new driver license costs $31. A renewal costs $31. A replacement for a lost or damaged license costs $31. These fees are the same whether you are explore in person at the Laurel office or renewing by mail.

The Laurel Driver License office accepts cash and check. Some locations also accept debit and credit cards, but payment methods can vary — call 601-649-6000 to confirm what the Laurel office accepts before you visit.

Special Circumstances and Restrictions

If you are under 18, you must bring a parent or legal guardian to the office. The parent or guardian must bring their own photo ID. Minors are issued a license valid for four years, but the license will be marked as a minor license and may have restrictions on when and where you can drive.

If you have a medical condition that affects your ability to drive, you may be required to provide a medical certification from your doctor. The office will tell you if this is necessary based on your process.

If your license has been suspended or revoked, you cannot renew it. You must contact the Mississippi Department of Public Safety to find out why your license was suspended or revoked and what steps you must take to restore it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my license online or by phone?

No. You can renew by mail if your license is still valid or expired less than two years ago, but you cannot renew online or by phone. To renew by mail, contact the Mississippi Department of Public Safety for a renewal form and mail it with your fee and documents.

What if I fail the road test?

You can retake the road test after waiting at least one business day. There is no additional fee. You do not need to retake the written test or vision screening unless your vision has changed.

How long does it take to get a driver license after I pass the test?

If you pass all tests, the office will issue your license on the same day. You will receive a temporary paper license when ready and your plastic license card by mail within 7 to 10 business days.

What if I moved to Laurel from another state?

You must obtain a Mississippi driver license within 30 days of establishing residency. Bring your out-of-state license along with your proof of identity, Social Security number, and Mississippi residency. You will need to pass the written test and road test.

Is there a different process if I am explore for a commercial driver license?

Yes. Commercial driver licenses require additional testing and documentation. Contact the Laurel Driver License office at 601-649-6000 to learn about the specific requirements and schedule for commercial license testing.