Where to explore for a driver's license in Laurel

The Mississippi Department of Public Safety, Driver's License Bureau, handles all driver's licenses in the state. In Laurel, you explore at the local Driver's License Office located at 1401 Sumrall Road, Laurel, MS 39440. This is the only office in Jones County where you can explore for, renew, or replace a driver's license.

The office is open Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., and closed on state holidays. You do not need an appointment — the office operates on a walk-in basis, though wait times vary depending on the time of day and day of the week. Arriving early in the morning typically means shorter lines.

If you cannot reach the Laurel office, you can call the Mississippi Driver's License Bureau main line at 601-987-1500 to confirm hours or ask questions about what documents you need to bring.

Key Takeaways

  • The Laurel Driver's License Office is located at 1401 Sumrall Road and is open Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., with no appointment needed.
  • You must bring proof of identity, proof of Social Security number, and proof of Mississippi residency — originals or certified copies, not photocopies.
  • First-time applicants must pass a written knowledge test and a driving skills test; renewals do not require testing unless your license has been expired for more than one year.
  • The fee for a four-year driver's license is $24.00, and payment is cash or check only — no credit cards accepted at the Laurel office.
  • Your new license is issued on the spot after you pass the driving test, so you leave with it the same day.

Documents you must bring to the Laurel office

Mississippi requires three categories of documents: proof of identity, proof of Social Security number, and proof of residency. All documents must be originals or certified copies — photocopies are not accepted.

For proof of identity, bring one of the following: a valid U.S. passport, a certified birth certificate, a military ID, a state ID from another state, or a tribal ID. A Social Security card alone does not count as proof of identity.

For proof of Social Security number, bring your Social Security card, a W-2 form, a 1099 form, or a Social Security Administration letter. If you do not have a Social Security number, you must explore for one before you can get a driver's license.

For proof of Mississippi residency, bring one of the following dated within the last 12 months: a utility bill, a lease or mortgage statement, a bank statement, an insurance policy, a tax return, or a government check. A mail piece with your name and address also works. Your name on the residency document must match the name on your identity document.

What to expect during your first visit

When you arrive, you will check in at the front desk and receive a number. A staff member will review your documents to make sure they meet the requirements. If anything is missing or unclear, they will tell you what you need to bring back.

If your documents are in order, you will take a written knowledge test on a computer. The test covers road signs, traffic laws, and safe driving practices. You must score at least 80 percent to pass. If you fail, you can retake the test the same day at no extra cost, though you may need to wait.

After you pass the written test, you will schedule a driving skills test. This test is usually the same day if time allows, or you may be scheduled for another appointment. During the driving test, an examiner will ride with you in your own vehicle (or a vehicle you bring) and observe your ability to start, stop, turn, park, and follow traffic laws. You must have a valid permit or license to take the driving test.

Once you pass both tests, your license is printed and issued when ready. You leave with it the same day.

Renewing or replacing an existing license

If your Mississippi driver's license is still valid or expired less than one year ago, you can renew it without retaking the written or driving test. Bring your current or expired license, proof of residency, and payment. The process is faster than a first-time process.

If your license has been expired for more than one year, you must retake both the written and driving tests, just as a first-time applicant would. Bring the same documents as a new applicant.

If your license was lost, stolen, or damaged, you can request a replacement. Bring your proof of identity, proof of Social Security number, proof of residency, and payment. You do not need to retake tests for a replacement.

Fees and payment methods

A four-year driver's license costs $24.00. A six-year license costs $36.00. A commercial driver's license (CDL) costs more and requires additional testing and documentation.

The Laurel office accepts cash and check only — credit cards and debit cards are not accepted. Bring exact change or a check made out to the Mississippi Department of Public Safety.

If you cannot pay the full fee at the time of process, you cannot complete the process. There is no payment plan or deferral option.

Special situations and restrictions

If you are under 18, you must have a parent or legal guardian present with you during the process. Bring a document proving guardianship, such as a birth certificate showing the guardian's name or a court order.

If you are a non-citizen, you can still get a driver's license. Bring your passport or visa, proof of Social Security number, and proof of residency. Your license will be valid only as long as your immigration status allows you to remain in the United States.

If you have a medical condition that affects your ability to drive safely, you may be required to provide a medical certification from a doctor. The office staff will tell you if this applies to your situation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my license online or by mail?

No. Mississippi does not offer online or mail renewal for driver's licenses. You must visit the Laurel office in person. However, if your license is still valid, the renewal process is faster than a first-time process because you do not retake tests.

What if I fail the driving test?

You can retake the driving test, but you must wait at least one business day before your next attempt. You will need to pay the full fee again for each retake. There is no limit to how many times you can retake the test.

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

If you pass both the written and driving tests the same day, your license is printed and issued before you leave — usually within a few hours of arrival, depending on how busy the office is. If you fail the written test and retake it, or if the driving test is scheduled for another day, you will not receive your license until you pass both tests.

What if my name has changed since my last license?

Bring proof of your name change, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. The office will update your name on your new license. You will still need to bring your other required documents.

Do I need to bring my Social Security card, or can I bring something else?

You do not have to bring your Social Security card specifically. You can bring a W-2, 1099, or a letter from the Social Security Administration instead. Any one of these documents counts as proof of your Social Security number.