Where to go for your driver's license in Greenville

In Greenville, you get your driver's license from the Mississippi Department of Public Safety Driver License Bureau. The main office is located at 1900 East Peace Street in Greenville. This is where you'll go to take your written test, vision test, and photo, or to renew an existing license.

The office is open Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., and closed on state holidays. You cannot renew online in Mississippi, so you must visit in person for a new license or a renewal. If you're renewing and your license hasn't been suspended or revoked, the process is faster than getting your first license.

Before you go, bring the documents listed below. Showing up without them means a wasted trip, since the office cannot issue a license without proof of identity and residency.

Key Takeaways

  • The Greenville Driver License Bureau is at 1900 East Peace Street and is open weekdays 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
  • You must bring a birth certificate or passport, proof of Social Security number, and proof of Mississippi residency such as a utility bill or lease.
  • A new license costs $24.50 and is valid for four years; a renewal costs $24.50 and is valid for four years.
  • If you fail the written test, you can retake it the same day or return another day at no extra charge.
  • You cannot renew by mail or online in Mississippi, even if your license is not expired.

Documents you need to bring

Mississippi requires three types of documents: proof of identity, proof of your Social Security number, and proof of residency in Mississippi. Bringing the wrong documents will delay you, so check this list before you leave home.

For proof of identity, bring one of these: a valid U.S. passport, a certified birth certificate, a military ID, or a tribal ID. A school ID or work ID does not count. If your birth certificate is not certified (it does not have an official seal), the office will not accept it.

For proof of Social Security number, bring your Social Security card, a W-2 form, a 1099 form, or a tax return. A bank statement with your Social Security number on it also works.

For proof of residency, bring a recent utility bill, a lease agreement, a mortgage statement, a bank statement, or a government check addressed to you at your current address. The document must show your name and current Mississippi address. A post office box does not count as a residence address.

What happens during your visit

When you arrive, you'll check in at the front desk and wait for your number to be called. The staff will review your documents and ask you to fill out an process form (DL-43). They will ask you questions about your driving history and any medical conditions that might affect your ability to drive.

Next, you'll take a vision test. If you wear glasses or contacts, bring them with you. You'll then take 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. If you fail, you can take it again the same day or come back another day.

If you pass, you'll have your photo taken and pay the fee. Your temporary license is printed on the spot, and your permanent card arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days. The temporary license is valid while you wait for the card.

Cost and how long your license lasts

A new driver's license costs $24.50. A renewal also costs $24.50. Both are valid for four years from the date of issue. You do not need to renew early; you can renew on the date it expires or after.

If your license is suspended or revoked, you cannot renew it. You must first contact the Mississippi Department of Public Safety to clear the suspension or revocation, then return to the office to renew.

Renewing your current license

If your license is not suspended or revoked and you are renewing before it expires, the process is simpler than getting a new license. You still need to bring proof of identity, proof of Social Security number, and proof of residency. You will not take the written test or vision test unless the staff determines you need to.

Renewals usually take 15 to 20 minutes. Your temporary license is printed on the spot, and your new card arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days. If your license has been expired for more than one year, you may have to retake the written test and vision test.

If you fail the written test

You can retake the written test on the same day at no extra charge, or you can come back another day. There is no limit to how many times you can retake it. Most people pass on the second or third attempt. If you want to study before retaking it, the Mississippi Department of Public Safety publishes a free study guide on its website.

The test covers speed limits, right-of-way rules, parking, and what different road signs mean. It is not a trick test; it tests whether you know the rules you need to drive safely.

What to do if you lose your license or it is damaged

If your license is lost, stolen, or damaged, go to the Greenville office and tell the staff. Bring your proof of identity, proof of Social Security number, and proof of residency, just as you would for a renewal. You will not retake the written test or vision test. The replacement costs $24.50, and your new card arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days.

If your license is suspended or revoked, you cannot drive legally. You must contact the Mississippi Department of Public Safety to find out why and what you need to do to clear it. The office in Greenville can tell you who to call.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my license by mail or online?

No. Mississippi does not offer mail or online renewal. You must visit the Greenville office in person, even if your license is not expired. Bring your documents and expect to spend 15 to 20 minutes if you are renewing, or 45 minutes to an hour if you are getting your first license.

What if I don't have a certified birth certificate?

You can order a certified copy from the Mississippi State Department of Health, Vital Records office. It costs about $15 and takes 1 to 2 weeks by mail. Alternatively, bring a valid U.S. passport, military ID, or tribal ID instead.

Do I need an appointment?

No appointment is needed. Walk in during business hours (Monday to Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.) with your documents. Wait times vary; early morning is usually less crowded than late afternoon.

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

Your temporary license is printed on the spot and is valid when ready. Your permanent card arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days. You can drive with the temporary license while you wait.

What if I moved to Greenville from another state?

You need a Mississippi license if you live in Mississippi. Bring your out-of-state license, proof of identity, proof of Social Security number, and proof of Mississippi residency. You will take the written test and vision test. Your out-of-state license is not valid once you get a Mississippi license.