The Mississippi Department of Public Safety Issues Driver's Licenses in Columbus

To get a driver's license in Columbus, Mississippi, you will visit a driver's license office run by the Mississippi Department of Public Safety. The main office in Columbus is located at 1900 East Peace Street. This is where you take the written test, the road test, and submit your documents in person.

You cannot get a Mississippi driver's license by mail or online. You must appear in person at a driver's license office, bring the required documents, and pass both tests. The process takes several hours on the day you go, though you may need to return on a separate day for your road test depending on how busy the office is.

Key Takeaways

  • The Columbus driver's license office is at 1900 East Peace Street and is open Monday through Friday during standard business hours.
  • You must bring a birth certificate or passport, proof of Social Security number, and proof of your current address before you can take any test.
  • You will take a written test first, then schedule a road test on a separate visit if you pass the written exam.
  • The road test must be taken in a vehicle that is registered, insured, and has a valid inspection sticker in Mississippi.

Documents You Need to Bring

Before you go to the Columbus office, gather these documents. You will need proof of identity (a birth certificate, passport, or military ID), proof of your Social Security number (a Social Security card or tax return), and proof of your current address (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days). If your name has changed due to marriage or court order, bring the document that shows the change.

If you are under 18, you will also need a parent or guardian to sign a consent form in person at the office. Bring that person with you on the day you explore. If you are renewing a license that has expired, bring the expired license itself.

The Written Test and What It Covers

The written test covers Mississippi traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You can study using the Mississippi Driver's Manual, which is free and available on the Department of Public Safety website. The manual explains everything the test will ask about.

You will answer multiple-choice questions on a computer at the office. You must pass with a score of at least 80 percent. If you do not pass, you can retake the test the same day or come back another day. There is a fee each time you take the test.

The Road Test: When and How It Works

After you pass the written test, you schedule a road test at the same office. The road test usually happens on a different day, though availability depends on how many people are waiting. You will drive a set route in Columbus while an examiner watches and scores your driving. The test takes about 20 to 30 minutes.

You must bring a vehicle that is registered in Mississippi, has current insurance, and has passed the state inspection. The vehicle must have working brakes, lights, wipers, and mirrors. If you fail the road test, you can retake it, but you will need to schedule another appointment and pay another fee.

Fees and What They Cover

Mississippi charges a fee for the written test, a separate fee for the road test, and a fee for the license itself. The exact amounts change, so call the Columbus office at the number listed below to confirm current prices. Fees are paid in cash or card at the time you take each test or receive your license.

If you pass both tests, you will receive a temporary paper license on the day you pass the road test. Your permanent plastic license will arrive by mail within two to three weeks. The temporary license is valid for driving while you wait for the permanent one.

Office Hours and How to Schedule

The Columbus driver's license office at 1900 East Peace Street is open Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., with a lunch break from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. It is closed on weekends and state holidays. You do not need an appointment for the written test — you can walk in during business hours. However, road test appointments fill up quickly, so schedule yours as soon as you pass the written exam.

To confirm hours or ask about current wait times, call the Columbus office directly. The phone number is available on the Mississippi Department of Public Safety website under "Driver's License Offices."

What Happens If You Fail or Need to Retake a Test

If you fail the written test, you can retake it the same day or return another day. Each attempt costs a fee. Most people pass on the second or third try if they study the manual between attempts. If you fail the road test, you must schedule a new appointment, which may be several days or weeks away depending on the office's schedule.

There is no limit to how many times you can retake either test, but each attempt costs money. If you are struggling with the written test, the manual is free to read and study at home. Some people also find it helpful to take practice tests online before going to the office.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take the written test without scheduling an appointment?

Yes. The Columbus office accepts walk-ins for the written test during business hours. You do not need to call ahead. However, if many people are waiting, you may have a long wait time. Going early in the morning or mid-week often means shorter lines.

What if I fail the road test — how soon can I retake it?

You can schedule another road test appointment after you fail, but the next available slot depends on how busy the office is. This could be days or weeks away. Call the office after you fail to book your next attempt as soon as possible.

Do I need to bring my own car for the road test, or can I use the office's car?

You must bring your own vehicle. The examiner will not provide a car. Your vehicle must be registered, insured, and inspected in Mississippi. If you do not own a car, you can borrow one from a friend or family member as long as it meets these requirements.

What if I move to a different city in Mississippi after I get my license?

Your Mississippi driver's license is valid statewide, so you do not need to get a new one if you move. However, you should update your address with the Department of Public Safety within 30 days of moving. You can do this by mail or in person at any driver's license office.

Is the written test offered in languages other than English?

The test is available in English and Spanish at most Mississippi driver's license offices. Call the Columbus office to confirm that Spanish is available before you go, or ask about other language options if you need them.