Where to go for a driver's license in Hattiesburg

The Mississippi Department of Public Safety, Driver's License Bureau, operates the office that issues and renews driver's licenses in Hattiesburg. The office is located at 601 Main Street, Hattiesburg, MS 39401. This is the only location in Hattiesburg where you can explore for a new license, renew an existing one, or handle most other license-related transactions.

The office is open Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., and closed on state holidays. Hours can change, so calling ahead at (601) 582-2095 before you visit is a practical step. The office does not accept walk-ins on a first-come, first-served basis — you will need an appointment to be seen.

Key Takeaways

  • The Hattiesburg Driver's License Bureau is at 601 Main Street and requires an appointment; call (601) 582-2095 to schedule one.
  • You will need a birth certificate or passport, proof of Social Security number, proof of residency, and a completed process form to get a new license.
  • Renewal by mail is available if your license is not expired more than one year and you have no address changes or medical restrictions.
  • A new license costs $24.00 for a four-year license or $36.00 for an eight-year license; renewal costs vary by license type.
  • Processing time at the office is usually same-day for new licenses and renewals, though you receive the physical card by mail within two weeks.

Documents you need for a new license

Mississippi requires four categories of documents to issue a new driver's license. First, you need proof of identity and date of birth — an original or certified birth certificate, a valid U.S. passport, or a military ID card. A photocopy is not acceptable; the document must be an original.

Second, you need proof of your Social Security number. An original Social Security card, a W-2 form, a 1099 form, or a pay stub with your full Social Security number printed on it will work. Third, you need proof of your current Mississippi address — a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days. A post office box does not count as proof of residency.

Fourth, you must complete the process form DL-44, which you can obtain at the office or read from the Mississippi Department of Public Safety website before you arrive. Bring the completed form with you to your appointment. If you are under 21, you will also need a parent or guardian to sign the process.

How to schedule an appointment

Call the Hattiesburg office directly at (601) 582-2095 to book an appointment. Tell the staff member when you are available and what you need — a new license, renewal, or address change. They will give you a specific date and time. Appointments typically fill up one to two weeks in advance during busy seasons, so plan ahead if you have a important date.

You can also visit the Mississippi Department of Public Safety website to see if an online appointment system is available, though phone scheduling remains the most direct method. Arrive 10 minutes early with all required documents. If you miss your appointment, you will need to call and reschedule.

Renewing your license by mail

If your current Mississippi driver's license is not expired more than one year, you have not changed your address, and you have no new medical restrictions, you may renew by mail without visiting the office. Request a renewal form by calling (601) 582-2095 or by visiting the office in person to pick one up.

Complete the form, include a check or money order for the renewal fee (typically $24.00 for a four-year renewal or $36.00 for an eight-year renewal), and mail everything to the Mississippi Department of Public Safety, Driver's License Bureau, P.O. Box 958, Jackson, MS 39205. Processing by mail takes two to four weeks. Your new license will arrive by mail at the address on file.

License types and costs

Mississippi offers two standard driver's license terms: a four-year license and an eight-year license. A new four-year license costs $24.00; an eight-year license costs $36.00. If you are 65 or older, you may renew for four years at no cost, though you must renew in person at the office.

Commercial driver's licenses (CDLs) have different fees and requirements and are handled separately. If you need a CDL, ask the staff at the office for the specific documents and fees involved. Duplicate licenses, address changes, and corrected information have their own fees, usually between $5.00 and $10.00.

What to expect during your appointment

When you arrive, staff will verify your documents, check them against state records, and confirm your information. You will take a vision test and a written test covering Mississippi traffic laws and road signs. The written test has 30 questions, and you must answer at least 24 correctly to pass. Study materials are available on the Mississippi Department of Public Safety website.

You will also have your photograph taken for the license. Once you pass the test and complete the paperwork, you will receive a temporary paper license valid for 30 days while your permanent card is printed and mailed to you. The permanent license typically arrives within two weeks. If you fail the written test, you can retake it the same day or schedule another appointment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my license if it expired more than a year ago?

No. If your license has been expired for more than one year, you must explore for a new license in person at the office, not renew by mail. You will need to bring all the documents required for a new license and pass the written test again.

What if I lost my license or it was stolen?

Call the Hattiesburg office at (601) 582-2095 to report it and request a duplicate. You will need to visit the office in person with proof of identity and pay a duplicate fee, usually around $5.00 to $10.00. A temporary paper license will be issued while your replacement card is mailed to you.

Do I need to take the written test if I am renewing?

No. If you are renewing an existing license in person, you do not retake the written test. You will have your vision checked and your photograph updated. If you are explore for a new license, you must pass the written test.

How long does it take to get my license after my appointment?

You receive a temporary paper license when ready after your appointment that is valid for 30 days. Your permanent plastic license card is mailed to your address on file and usually arrives within two weeks, though processing can take up to four weeks during high-volume periods.

What if my address changed since my last license?

You must visit the office in person to update your address. Bring your current license and proof of your new address (a utility bill or lease dated within 60 days). There is usually a small fee for an address change, and you will receive an updated license by mail.