Where to go for a driver's license in Jackson

The Mississippi Department of Public Safety, Driver's License Bureau handles all driver's licenses in the state. In Jackson, the main office is located at 1900 East Woodrow Wilson Avenue. This is where you go to get a new license, renew an existing one, or replace a lost or damaged license.

Jackson also has a satellite office at 6311 Medgar Wiley Evers Boulevard that handles some services, though the main office on Woodrow Wilson is the primary location. Hours vary by location, so call ahead or check the Department of Public Safety website before you go. The office is closed on weekends and state holidays.

You can also renew your license by mail if your license is not suspended or revoked and you meet other conditions. The mail renewal option is slower but saves a trip to Jackson if you live elsewhere in Mississippi.

Key Takeaways

  • The Mississippi Department of Public Safety Driver's License Bureau in Jackson is located at 1900 East Woodrow Wilson Avenue and is the main office for all license services.
  • You will need a birth certificate or passport, proof of Social Security number, proof of residency, and a completed process form before you visit.
  • First-time licenses and license renewals have different fees, and fees vary depending on the type of license and how long you want it valid.
  • If you fail the written test, you can retake it the same day or return another day without paying the process fee again.
  • Mail renewal is an option for some drivers, but it takes longer and is not available if your license is suspended, revoked, or expired for more than a year.

Documents you need to bring

Mississippi requires specific documents before you can get or renew a license. Bring an original or certified copy of your birth certificate, or a valid U.S. passport. You also need proof of your Social Security number — an original Social Security card, W-2 form, or 1099 form all work.

Proof of residency is required. This can be a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days and showing your current address. A government-issued ID with your current address also counts. If you have recently moved, bring documentation showing both your old and new address.

Fill out the process form before you arrive. The form is available on the Mississippi Department of Public Safety website and at the office itself. Bring your completed form with you to speed up the process.

Fees and license types

The cost of a driver's license in Mississippi depends on the type of license and how long you want it valid. A regular driver's license costs less than a commercial driver's license (CDL). Licenses are typically valid for four, six, or eight years depending on your age and the type you choose.

Renewal fees are lower than the fee for a new license. If you are renewing by mail, the fee is the same as renewing in person. Replacement licenses for lost or damaged licenses cost the same as a renewal. The exact fee amounts change periodically, so confirm the current cost when you call or visit the office.

Mississippi accepts cash, check, and debit or credit card at the Jackson office. Ask which payment methods the satellite office accepts when you call.

The written and driving tests

If you are getting your first license or your license has been expired for more than a year, you must pass a written test and a driving test. The written test covers road signs, traffic laws, and safe driving practices. You can study using the Mississippi Driver's Manual, which is free on the Department of Public Safety website.

The driving test is conducted by an examiner at the office. You must bring a vehicle that is registered, insured, and in safe working condition. The vehicle must have working brakes, lights, windshield wipers, and mirrors. If you fail either test, you can retake it without paying the process fee again, though some offices charge a small retest fee.

If you are renewing an existing license that has not expired for more than a year, you typically do not need to retake the tests. However, if you have medical conditions or have had your license suspended, the office may require a new test.

Renewing by mail

Mail renewal is available if your license is not suspended or revoked, has not been expired for more than a year, and you do not need to change your name or address. You must also be between 21 and 70 years old. Request a mail renewal form from the Driver's License Bureau or read it from the Mississippi Department of Public Safety website.

Mail your completed form, proof of residency, and payment to the address listed on the form. Processing takes four to six weeks. Your new license will be mailed to the address you provide. You cannot drive on an expired license while waiting for your renewal to arrive, so plan ahead if you choose this option.

If you do not meet the requirements for mail renewal, you must visit the office in person.

What to expect on the day you visit

Arrive early, especially on weekdays, as the office can have long wait times. Bring all required documents and your completed process form. You will check in at the front desk, and staff will review your documents to make sure everything is in order.

If you are getting a new license or your license has been expired for more than a year, you will take the written test first. If you pass, you will schedule a driving test, which may happen the same day or on a later date depending on examiner availability. If you are renewing, you will have your photo taken and your new license will be printed on the spot or mailed to you.

The entire process for a renewal typically takes 30 minutes to an hour. Getting a new license with tests can take several hours if you must return for a driving test appointment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my license online?

No, Mississippi does not offer online renewal. You can renew by mail if you meet the requirements, or you must visit the office in person. Mail renewal takes four to six weeks, so plan ahead if you choose that option.

What if I lost my license and need a replacement?

Visit the Jackson office with proof of identity and residency. You will pay a replacement fee, have a new photo taken, and receive your replacement license. Bring your Social Security proof and birth certificate or passport even though you are not getting a new license — the office still needs to verify your information.

Do I need an appointment?

The Jackson office does not require appointments for most services. Walk-ins are accepted, but wait times can be long during peak hours. Call ahead to ask about current wait times, or visit early in the morning or mid-week when the office is typically less busy.

What if I fail the driving test?

You can retake the driving test without paying the process fee again. Some offices charge a small retest fee. You can schedule another test the same day if an examiner is available, or return on another day. There is no limit to how many times you can retake the test.

Can I get a Real ID in Jackson?

Yes, Mississippi issues Real ID-compliant driver's licenses. Real ID licenses have a gold star in the upper right corner and are required for federal building access and domestic air travel. The process is the same as getting a regular license, but you may need additional documents. Ask the office which documents they need for Real ID when you call.