The Mississippi Driver's License Office in Laurel

Laurel, Mississippi has one dedicated driver's license office run by the Mississippi Department of Public Safety. The office is located at 1428 Old Richton Road, Laurel, MS 39440. This is the place to go for a new license, renewal, replacement, or any change to your existing license.

The office handles both written tests and the road test for driver's licenses. You can also renew your license in person here, though Mississippi also allows online renewal for certain situations. The staff can answer questions about what documents you need to bring and what the process involves for your specific situation.

Hours and wait times vary by day and season. It is common for the office to be busier on Fridays and at the beginning of the month. Calling ahead at the office number can give you a sense of current wait times before you drive there.

Key Takeaways

  • The Laurel driver's license office is at 1428 Old Richton Road and handles new licenses, renewals, replacements, and road tests.
  • You will need to bring specific documents — typically a birth certificate or passport, proof of Social Security number, and proof of residence — so check the Mississippi DPS website or call before you go.
  • The office processes both written and road tests on-site, so you can complete your entire license process in one location.
  • Wait times are longest on Fridays and early in the month, so calling ahead can help you plan when to visit.

What Documents to Bring

Mississippi requires specific documents for a new driver's license. You will need proof of identity (a birth certificate, passport, or military ID), proof of your Social Security number (a Social Security card, W-2, or tax return), and proof of your current address (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days).

If you are renewing an existing license, the requirements are simpler — usually just your current license and proof of address. If you are replacing a lost or stolen license, bring your current license if you still have it, or a police report if it was stolen.

The Mississippi Department of Public Safety website lists the full set of acceptable documents for each type of transaction. Bringing the wrong documents means a wasted trip, so reviewing the list before you go saves time.

Written Test and Road Test at the Laurel Office

The Laurel office administers both the written knowledge test and the road test for driver's licenses. The written test covers traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices specific to Mississippi. You can schedule the road test after you pass the written test, or sometimes on the same day depending on how busy the office is.

For the road test, you will drive a route set by the examiner in your own vehicle or a vehicle provided by the office. The examiner watches for safe handling, proper signaling, parking, and following traffic laws. Most people take the test once or twice before passing.

You do not need to study a separate manual — the Mississippi DPS provides a free driver's manual online that covers everything on the written test. Many people study it for a few days before taking the test.

Renewal and Replacement Options

If your license is still valid and you just need to renew it, you may not have to visit the office in person. Mississippi allows online renewal for drivers whose licenses are not expired and who have no changes to their information. You can renew online through the Mississippi DPS website if you meet those conditions.

If your license has expired, you are moving to a new address, or you need to change your name, you will need to visit the Laurel office in person. Replacements for lost or stolen licenses also require an in-person visit.

A standard driver's license in Mississippi is valid for eight years. You will receive a notice in the mail before your license expires, which is a good reminder to plan your renewal.

Contact Information and Hours

The Laurel driver's license office is at 1428 Old Richton Road, Laurel, MS 39440. You can call the office directly to ask about current wait times, confirm what documents you need, or schedule a road test if the office offers appointments.

Hours vary, so check the Mississippi Department of Public Safety website or call before you visit. The office is typically closed on weekends and state holidays. During busy seasons — especially around the beginning of the month or before school starts — wait times can be an hour or longer.

What to Expect on Your Visit

When you arrive, you will check in at the front desk and provide your documents. A staff member will review them to make sure everything is in order. If something is missing, they will tell you what you need to bring back.

If you are taking the written test, you will be called to a testing station where you will answer questions on a computer or paper form. The test usually takes 20 to 30 minutes. You will find out your score right away.

If you are taking the road test, the examiner will meet you in the waiting area and walk you to your vehicle. The test takes about 15 to 20 minutes. You will know whether you passed before you leave the office.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I schedule my road test ahead of time?

Some Mississippi offices allow you to schedule road tests in advance, while others operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Call the Laurel office directly to find out their current policy. If appointments are available, scheduling ahead can save you a long wait.

What if I fail the written test?

You can retake the written test the same day or come back another day — the office will tell you the policy when you fail. Most people pass on the second or third attempt after studying the driver's manual more carefully.

Do I need to bring my Social Security card?

You need to prove your Social Security number, but a card is not the only way. A W-2, tax return, or other official document with your number works. Bring whichever you have available.

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

You will receive a temporary paper license the same day you pass your road test. Your permanent plastic license arrives by mail within one to two weeks. The temporary license is valid for driving until the permanent one arrives.

What if I moved to Laurel from another state?

You will need to get a Mississippi license. Bring your out-of-state license, proof of your new Mississippi address, and proof of your Social Security number. You may have to take the written test again, depending on your state's agreement with Mississippi.