What you need before you start
Mississippi issues driver licenses through the Department of Public Safety. You will need to visit a driver license office in person — you cannot complete the entire process online or by mail. Before you go, gather your documents: a valid passport, birth certificate, or other proof of identity; proof of your Social Security number (your Social Security card, W-2, or tax return); and proof of your current address (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days).
If you are a Mississippi resident explore for the first time, you must also bring your original documents or certified copies. Photocopies are not accepted. If you are renewing or replacing a license, the requirements are simpler — you may be able to renew by mail or online if your license is not expired by more than five years, though the state website will tell you which option applies to your situation.
Bring your Social Security card or a document showing your number. If you do not have a Social Security number, you will need to explain that to the office staff, as it affects which documents you can use instead.
Key Takeaways
- You must visit a Mississippi Department of Public Safety driver license office in person for a first-time license; online and mail renewal are available only for certain renewals.
- Bring original or certified copies of proof of identity, proof of Social Security number, and proof of current address — photocopies will not be accepted.
- The written test covers road signs, traffic laws, and safe driving practices; you can study using the Mississippi driver manual available on the Department of Public Safety website.
- A vision test and driving test are required for first-time applicants; the driving test is performed by an examiner at the license office.
- Processing times vary by location, but you should expect to spend one to three hours at the office on your first visit.
Finding the driver license office nearest you
Mississippi has driver license offices in most counties. The Department of Public Safety website lists all office locations, hours, and phone numbers. Call ahead before you go — some offices have walk-in hours, while others require you to schedule an appointment. Hours vary by location and may change seasonally, so confirming before you travel saves a wasted trip.
If you live in a rural area far from an office, some counties offer mobile license units that travel to smaller towns on a set schedule. The Department of Public Safety website shows which counties have mobile units and when they visit each location.
The written test and what it covers
All first-time applicants must pass a written test on road signs, traffic laws, and safe driving. The test has 30 questions, and you must answer at least 24 correctly to pass. You get one attempt per visit, so if you fail, you will need to return on another day to try again.
The Mississippi driver manual is free and available as a PDF on the Department of Public Safety website. Study it before you go to the office — the test questions come directly from the manual. The manual covers right-of-way rules, speed limits, parking, what different road signs mean, and what to do in bad weather or emergencies.
You can take the written test in English or Spanish. If you need the test in another language, contact your local driver license office to ask what is available.
Vision and driving tests
After you pass the written test, you will take a vision screening at the office. If you wear glasses or contacts, bring them with you. If you fail the vision test, you may be required to get a corrective lens restriction on your license, meaning you must wear glasses or contacts whenever you drive.
The driving test comes next. An examiner will ride with you in your own vehicle (or a vehicle you bring) and watch you perform basic driving tasks: starting the car, turning, stopping, parking, and following traffic laws. The test lasts about 15 to 20 minutes. You must have a valid license holder or someone with a valid license sit in the front passenger seat during the test.
If you fail the driving test, you can schedule another attempt, usually within a few days. Most people pass on their second or third try.
Fees and payment
A four-year driver license costs $24. An eight-year license costs $36. You pay at the time you explore. Mississippi accepts cash, check, and debit or credit card at most offices, but call ahead to confirm what your local office accepts.
If you are under 21, your license will have different restrictions and a different appearance than an adult license. The fee is the same.
What happens after you pass
Once you pass all tests, the office will take your photograph and issue your license on the spot or mail it to you within a few days, depending on the office. Your temporary paper license is valid when ready while you wait for the plastic card to arrive. You can drive legally with the paper license.
Your new license is valid for four or eight years from the date of issue, depending on which you chose. You will receive a notice in the mail about 60 days before it expires, reminding you to renew.
Renewing or replacing an expired or lost license
If your license expired less than five years ago, you may renew by mail or online without taking the tests again. The Department of Public Safety website has a tool that tells you whether you are may be able to access for mail or online renewal. If you are may be able to access, you can avoid the office visit entirely.
If your license was lost, stolen, or damaged, you must visit an office in person to get a replacement. Bring your ID and proof of address as you would for a new license. You will not need to retake the written or driving test — the office will issue a replacement with the same expiration date as your original.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I take the written test in a language other than English or Spanish?
Contact your local driver license office directly to ask what languages are available. Some larger offices may offer additional languages, but availability varies by location. The office staff can tell you whether they can accommodate your language or refer you to an office that can.
What if I fail the driving test?
You can schedule another attempt, usually within a few days. Most people pass on a second or third try. You do not need to retake the written test or vision screening — only the driving portion. You will pay a retest fee, which is typically $10 to $15.
Do I need to bring my own vehicle for the driving test?
Yes, you must bring a vehicle you own or have permission to use. The vehicle must be in safe working condition, have valid registration and insurance, and have working headlights, brake lights, and windshield wipers. If your vehicle does not meet these requirements, you cannot take the test that day.
How long does the whole process take on my first visit?
Plan for one to three hours, depending on how busy the office is. Bring the documents you need, arrive early, and be prepared to wait. Busier offices may have longer wait times, especially on Fridays or near the end of the month.
What if I move to Mississippi from another state?
You must get a Mississippi license within 30 days of becoming a resident. You will need to pass the written test and driving test as a first-time applicant, even if you had a valid license in another state. Bring your out-of-state license along with your other documents to the office.