Where to go for a Mississippi driver's license in Hattiesburg

The Mississippi Department of Public Safety's Driver License Bureau office in Hattiesburg is located at 1601 Hardy Street, Hattiesburg, MS 39401. This is the office that issues driver's licenses, learner's permits, and ID cards for Forrest County residents and anyone else in the area.

You can visit in person during business hours, which are typically Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., though hours may vary seasonally or for holidays. It's a good idea to call ahead at the office to confirm current hours before you make the trip, since staffing and schedules can change.

The Hattiesburg office handles both new licenses and renewals. If you're moving to Mississippi from another state, you'll need to get a Mississippi license. If your current license is expiring or you've lost it, you can renew or replace it at this same location.

Key Takeaways

  • The Hattiesburg Driver License Bureau is at 1601 Hardy Street and is open Monday through Friday during standard business hours.
  • You will need to bring a valid form of identification, proof of residency, and your Social Security number or a document showing it.
  • The office issues new licenses, learner's permits, renewals, and replacement licenses all in one location.
  • Fees vary depending on whether you're getting a new license, a renewal, or a replacement, and payment is made at the time of your visit.

Documents you need to bring

Before you go to the Hattiesburg office, gather the documents listed below. Bringing everything at once means you won't have to make a second trip.

You'll need one form of valid identification. This can be a passport, a birth certificate, a military ID, or a previous driver's license from any state. If you're using a birth certificate, it must be an official certified copy, not a photocopy.

You'll also need proof of residency in Mississippi. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, a lease or mortgage statement, a bank statement, or a piece of mail from a government agency — all dated within the last 60 days and showing your current address. A driver's license from another state does not count as proof of residency.

Bring your Social Security number or a document that shows it, such as a Social Security card, a W-2 form, or a 1099 form. If you don't have your card, bring one of these documents instead.

The steps to follow on your visit

When you arrive at the Hattiesburg office, you'll check in at the front desk and receive a number or be added to the queue. Wait until your number is called, then proceed to the window.

The staff member will ask you questions about your driving history, any violations or suspensions, and your current address. Answer honestly — the information you provide is checked against state records. You'll then complete an process form (the DL-44 for a new license or the DL-43 for a renewal, depending on your situation).

Next, you'll take a vision test at a machine in the office. This checks whether you can see well enough to drive safely. If you wear glasses or contacts, wear them during the test.

You'll then have your photo taken for the license. Dress neatly and avoid wearing sunglasses or hats. The photo will appear on your license, so it's the one you'll use for identification for years.

Finally, you'll pay the fee at the window. The cost depends on the type of license and how long it's valid for. A standard driver's license is typically valid for four or eight years, and the fee varies accordingly. Ask the staff member for the exact amount before you pay.

How long it takes to receive your license

Your new license is usually printed on-site and given to you before you leave the office. In some cases, if there's a delay or a background check is needed, the office may mail it to your address within one to two weeks.

The wait time at the office itself varies. During busy times — typically mid-morning and early afternoon on weekdays — you may wait 30 minutes to an hour. Early morning or late afternoon visits tend to be less crowded.

If you're getting a learner's permit instead

A learner's permit allows you to practice driving under the supervision of a licensed driver before you take the full driving test for a license. In Mississippi, you must be at least 15 years old to get a learner's permit.

The process is similar to getting a license: bring the same documents, complete an process, take a vision test, and have your photo taken. You'll also take a written test on road signs, traffic laws, and safe driving practices. The test is given on a computer at the office.

A learner's permit is valid for one year. Once you've held it for at least six months and practiced driving, you can return to the office to take the driving test and move toward a full license.

Renewing or replacing an existing license

If your Mississippi license is expiring soon or has already expired, you can renew it at the Hattiesburg office. Bring your current license, proof of residency, and your Social Security number or a document showing it. You won't need to retake the written test or the driving test — just the vision test and a new photo.

If your license has been lost or stolen, you'll need a replacement. Bring proof of residency and your Social Security number. You'll take a new photo and pay a replacement fee, which is usually lower than the cost of a new license.

If your license was suspended or revoked, you cannot renew it at the office. You'll need to contact the Mississippi Department of Public Safety to find out what steps are required to restore your driving privileges before you can get a new license.

What to do if you can't visit in person

Mississippi does not currently offer online license renewal or mail-in renewal for most situations. You must visit the office in person to get a new license, a learner's permit, or a replacement.

If you live far from Hattiesburg, you can visit any Driver License Bureau office in Mississippi — there are offices in most counties. The process and documents required are the same at every location.

If you have a medical condition or disability that makes it difficult to visit the office, contact the Hattiesburg office directly to ask about accommodations or alternative options.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my license online?

Most driver's licenses in Mississippi cannot be renewed online. You must visit a Driver License Bureau office in person. However, some limited renewals may be available by mail — call the Hattiesburg office to ask if your situation qualifies.

What if I don't have a birth certificate?

You can use a passport, military ID, or another form of valid identification instead. If you don't have any of these, contact the Mississippi Department of Public Safety before your visit to ask what documents they will accept.

How much does a driver's license cost?

The fee varies based on the type of license and how long it's valid for. Call the Hattiesburg office or visit the Mississippi Department of Public Safety website to find the current fee for your situation.

Do I need an appointment?

The Hattiesburg office typically operates on a walk-in basis — you don't need an appointment. However, call ahead to confirm current procedures, as some offices have added appointment options during busy times.

What if I fail the vision test?

If you don't pass the vision test, you can get glasses or contacts and return to retake it. Some offices allow you to retake the test the same day if you bring corrective lenses.