The Laurel Driver License Office Location and Hours

The Mississippi Department of Public Safety issues driver licenses at a regional office in Laurel. The office is located at 515 Cowan Road, Laurel, MS 39440. This is the place where you go in person to take your written test, vision test, and photo for a new license or to renew an existing one.

Hours vary by day and change seasonally, so call ahead before you go. The main number for the Laurel office is (601) 428-0394. You can also visit the Mississippi Department of Public Safety website to confirm current hours, as they sometimes adjust for holidays or staffing.

The office serves Jones County and surrounding areas. If you live closer to another county, you may have the option to visit a different regional office, but Laurel is the main location for that part of the state.

Key Takeaways

  • The Laurel driver license office is at 515 Cowan Road and you must visit in person to take tests and have your photo taken.
  • Call (601) 428-0394 to confirm hours before you go, since they change seasonally and for holidays.
  • Bring your Social Security card, proof of residency, and any required medical or vision documentation.
  • First-time applicants must pass a written test and vision test; renewals may not require testing depending on your age and license type.

What Documents to Bring

Mississippi requires specific documents before the office will issue or renew your license. Bring your Social Security card (original or certified copy) and a document that proves where you live, such as a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within the last 60 days.

You will also need a form of photo identification. A passport, military ID, or out-of-state driver license all work. If you are renewing and your address has not changed, some of these requirements may be waived, but call the office to confirm what you specifically need.

If you have medical conditions that affect your driving — such as vision problems, seizure disorders, or hearing loss — bring documentation from your doctor. Mississippi may require a medical report form filled out by your physician before they issue your license.

Testing Requirements for New Licenses

If you are getting your first Mississippi driver license or your license has expired for more than a year, you must take a written knowledge test and a vision test at the office. The written test covers road signs, traffic laws, and safe driving practices. You study using the Mississippi Driver's Manual, which you can read from the Department of Public Safety website or pick up at the Laurel office.

The vision test checks whether you can see well enough to drive safely. If you wear glasses or contacts, bring them with you. If you fail the vision test, you may be required to see an eye doctor and bring a vision report before the office will issue your license.

Renewal applicants who are under 65 and whose licenses are still valid usually do not have to retake these tests. Drivers 65 and older may face different renewal rules — call the office to ask about your situation.

Fees and Payment Methods

Driver license fees in Mississippi depend on the type of license and how long it is valid. A standard four-year license costs less than an eight-year license. The office accepts cash and check; confirm whether they take card payments by calling ahead, as this can vary by location.

If you are renewing by mail instead of in person, the fee may be different. Not all license types can be renewed by mail, so ask the office whether your situation qualifies.

Renewing Your License by Mail

If your license is still valid and you meet certain conditions, you may be able to renew by mail instead of visiting the office in person. You must have a valid Mississippi license, no medical restrictions, and no address change. The process takes longer by mail — typically several weeks — so plan ahead if you need your license by a specific date.

To renew by mail, contact the Laurel office or the main Department of Public Safety office to request an process. You will mail in your current license, the completed form, and payment. The new license will be mailed back to you.

What to Do If You Lose Your License or It Is Damaged

If your license is lost, stolen, or damaged, you can get a replacement at the Laurel office. Bring your Social Security card, proof of residency, and photo ID, just as you would for a renewal. The office will issue a new license with the same number and expiration date as your original.

If your license was stolen, you may want to report it to local police, though this is not required to get a replacement. The police report can be useful if someone uses your license fraudulently.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my license online?

Mississippi does not offer online renewal for driver licenses. You must renew in person at the office or by mail if you meet the requirements. Call the Laurel office to find out whether you are may be able to access for mail renewal.

What if I have an out-of-state license and want to switch to Mississippi?

You will need to surrender your out-of-state license and take the written and vision tests for Mississippi. Bring your out-of-state license along with your Social Security card and proof of residency. The office will keep your old license and issue a new Mississippi license.

How long does it take to get a license on the day I visit?

Wait times vary depending on how busy the office is. Arrive early in the day or call ahead to ask about typical wait times. You will receive your temporary license the same day; your permanent license will be mailed to you within one to two weeks.

Do I need an appointment?

Mississippi driver license offices operate on a first-come, first-served basis and do not take appointments. Arrive during posted hours and bring all required documents. Call ahead to confirm hours and ask about current wait times.

What if I fail the written test?

You can retake the test the same day or return another day. There is usually a small fee for each retake. You have a limited number of attempts before you must wait a certain period before trying again — ask the office about their specific retake policy.