What the Mississippi Department of Transportation handles for driver's licenses

The Mississippi Department of Transportation (MDOT) issues driver's licenses and ID cards for the state. They run the licensing system, set the rules for who can drive, and decide what documents you need to bring. When you need a new license, a renewal, a replacement, or a name change on your license, MDOT is the agency that processes it.

MDOT does not handle vehicle registration or title work — that falls to the Mississippi Department of Revenue. But for anything about your driver's license itself, MDOT is where you go.

Key Takeaways

  • MDOT operates driver's license offices across Mississippi, and you can visit any office regardless of where you live.
  • You will need proof of identity, proof of Social Security number, and proof of Mississippi residency to get a new license.
  • Renewals by mail are available if your license is not expired more than one year and you have no medical restrictions.
  • MDOT charges different fees for different transactions — a new license costs less than a duplicate, and commercial licenses cost more.
  • You can check wait times and find office locations on the MDOT website before you go in person.

Documents you need to bring for a new license

MDOT requires three categories of documents: proof of identity, proof of your Social Security number, and proof that you live in Mississippi. Acceptable documents vary within each category, so you have options.

For identity, you can bring a passport, a military ID, a birth certificate, or a state ID from another state. For your Social Security number, bring your Social Security card, a W-2 form, or a 1099 form. For Mississippi residency, bring a utility bill, a lease, a mortgage statement, or a bank statement — it must show your name and current address and be dated within the last 60 days.

If you are under 21, you will also need a parent or guardian to sign your process in person. Bring their ID as well.

How to renew your license by mail or in person

If your license is still valid or expired less than one year ago, and you have no medical restrictions on your license, you can renew by mail. Request a renewal form from MDOT's website or call your local office. Fill it out, include a new photo (you can take one yourself or have one taken at an office), and mail it with the renewal fee. Processing takes about two weeks.

If your license expired more than one year ago, or if you have medical restrictions, you must renew in person at an MDOT office. Bring the same documents you would for a new license. You will take a new photo at the office, pass a vision test, and pay the renewal fee. Most offices do not require an appointment, but you can check wait times on the MDOT website before you go.

Getting a duplicate or replacement license

If your license was lost, stolen, or damaged, you can get a duplicate. You do not need to retake the written or driving test. Bring your proof of identity and proof of residency, and MDOT will issue a new card with the same license number and expiration date as your old one.

The duplicate fee is lower than the fee for a new license. You can get a duplicate in person at any MDOT office, and processing is usually the same day or within a few days.

Changing your name on your license

If you changed your name through marriage, divorce, or court order, you can update your license without waiting for renewal. Bring your current license, proof of your new name (a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order), and proof of residency. MDOT will issue a new card with your updated name and the same expiration date.

You can do this at any MDOT office in person. There is usually a small fee for the name change, though some offices waive it if you are renewing at the same time.

MDOT office locations and hours

MDOT operates driver's license offices in most Mississippi counties. You do not have to go to the office in your county — you can visit any office in the state. Hours vary by location, but most offices are open Monday through Friday during business hours, with some Saturday hours at larger locations.

The MDOT website lists all office addresses, phone numbers, and hours. You can also call ahead to ask about wait times or to confirm that an office has the service you need. Some smaller offices do not handle all transactions, so it is worth checking before you drive there.

Fees and payment methods

MDOT charges different fees depending on what you are doing. A new license costs less than a duplicate. A commercial driver's license (CDL) costs more than a regular license. Renewals cost less than new licenses. Fees change occasionally, so check the MDOT website or call your local office for the current amount.

Most offices accept cash, check, and debit or credit card. Some smaller offices may accept only cash or check, so ask when you call ahead. If you are mailing in a renewal, you can pay by check or money order.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a Real ID from MDOT?

Yes. A Real ID is a federal standard that lets you use your driver's license to board a domestic flight or enter a federal building. MDOT issues Real ID licenses at no extra cost. You will need the same documents as a regular license, plus proof of your Social Security number. Ask at your local MDOT office whether you want a Real ID or a standard license.

What if I moved to Mississippi from another state?

You can exchange your out-of-state license for a Mississippi license without retaking the written or driving test. Bring your current out-of-state license, proof of Mississippi residency, and proof of your Social Security number. MDOT will issue a new Mississippi license with a new expiration date.

How long is a Mississippi driver's license valid?

A regular driver's license is valid for four years from the date it is issued. A commercial driver's license is valid for four years as well. You will receive a notice in the mail when your license is about to expire, usually 30 days before the expiration date.

Do I need an appointment to visit an MDOT office?

Most MDOT offices do not require appointments and serve customers on a first-come, first-served basis. However, some larger offices may offer appointment slots during busy times. Check the MDOT website or call your local office to see if appointments are available in your area.

What happens if I let my license expire?

You cannot legally drive with an expired license. If you are pulled over, you may face a fine. You can still renew an expired license in person at any MDOT office by bringing the same documents you would for a new license. If your license expired more than one year ago, you must renew in person and pass a vision test.