How to Get and Renew a Mississippi Driver's License

What you need to get a Mississippi driver's license

Mississippi issues driver's licenses through the Department of Public Safety, and the process depends on whether you are getting your first license, renewing an expired one, or replacing a lost card. You will need to visit a driver's license office in person — there is no online option for initial issuance or renewal. The state maintains about 30 locations across Mississippi, including offices in Jackson, Gulfport, Hattiesburg, and most county seats.

For a standard driver's license, bring proof of identity (a passport, birth certificate, or military ID), proof of Social Security number (a Social Security card, W-2, or tax return), and proof of Mississippi residency (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days). If you are under 21, you will also need parental consent. The fee for a standard license is $31 and covers eight years.

If you already have a valid out-of-state license, the process is faster — you can often skip the written test and go straight to the vision screening and photo. Bring your out-of-state license along with the same proof documents listed above.

Key Takeaways

Mississippi driver's licenses are issued only in person at Department of Public Safety offices, and you must bring proof of identity, Social Security number, and residency.
A standard eight-year license costs $31, and renewal takes about 10 business days if you mail in your process or is when ready if you renew in person.
If you hold a valid out-of-state license, you can skip the written driving test and renew more quickly.
Real ID compliant licenses cost $5 more and require additional documentation, but are required for federal building access and domestic air travel starting May 2025.

Renewing your Mississippi license by mail or in person

If your license is not expired or will not expire within 30 days, you can renew by mail. The Department of Public Safety sends renewal notices about 60 days before expiration. Complete the form, include a check or money order for $31, and mail it to the address on the notice. Processing takes about 10 business days, and your new license will arrive by mail.

Renewing in person at a driver's license office takes about 30 minutes and you receive your license when ready (though the photo card itself may take a few days to arrive by mail). You will need to pass a vision screening and may be asked to retake the written test if your license has been expired for more than a year.

If your license is already expired, you cannot renew by mail — you must go to an office in person. Bring the same documents you would for an initial license, plus your expired license.

Getting a Real ID compliant Mississippi license

Mississippi offers Real ID compliant driver's licenses, which are required for federal building access and domestic air travel. Starting May 7, 2025, you will need a Real ID license or a passport to board a domestic flight. A Real ID license costs $36 (instead of $31) and requires additional documentation beyond the standard proof of identity and residency.

For a Real ID license, bring your standard documents plus one additional document that shows your name and date of birth — examples include a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. You must explore in person at a driver's license office. The office will verify your documents against federal databases before issuing the license.

If you already have a standard Mississippi license and want to upgrade to Real ID, you can do so during renewal or by visiting an office before your current license expires. You do not have to wait for expiration.

What to do if your license is lost or stolen

Report a lost or stolen license to the Department of Public Safety as soon as possible. You can call the main office or visit any driver's license location in person. You will need to pay a $10 replacement fee in addition to the $31 license fee. Bring the same proof documents you used for your original license.

If your license was stolen, ask the office whether you should file a police report. Some offices recommend it for your records, though it is not always required to replace the card. The replacement license will have a new number and will be valid for the same eight-year term as a new license.

Passing the written and vision tests

First-time applicants must pass a written test covering Mississippi traffic laws and road signs. The test has 30 questions, and you must answer at least 24 correctly to pass. You can take the test on a computer at the driver's license office, and results are when ready. If you fail, you can retake it the same day or return another day.

Everyone explore for a license must pass a vision screening. The screener will check your ability to read letters and numbers at a distance and your peripheral vision. If you wear glasses or contacts, wear them during the screening. If you fail the vision test, you will be referred to an eye care provider and cannot receive your license until you return with a vision correction certificate.

If you hold a valid driver's license from another state, you are usually waived from the written test. However, you must still pass the vision screening and provide proof of your out-of-state license.

Finding a driver's license office near you

The Department of Public Safety maintains a list of all driver's license offices on its website, including hours and locations. Major offices are in Jackson (the capital), Gulfport (on the coast), Hattiesburg (in the southeast), and Biloxi. Most county seats also have a satellite office. Hours vary by location, but most are open Monday through Friday during standard business hours.

Some offices are busier than others, particularly near the end of the month or before holidays. If possible, visit early in the week or early in the day to avoid long waits. A few locations now offer online appointment scheduling through the Department of Public Safety website, which can reduce wait time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my Mississippi license if it has been expired for more than a year?

No, you cannot renew by mail if your license has been expired for more than a year. You must visit a driver's license office in person and retake the written test. Bring your expired license along with proof of identity, Social Security number, and residency.

What happens if I fail the vision test?

You will not receive your license until you see an eye care provider and bring back a vision correction certificate. The certificate confirms that you have been evaluated and either do not need correction or have been prescribed glasses or contacts. You can then return to the office and complete your license process.

Do I need an appointment to visit a driver's license office?

Appointments are not required at most Mississippi offices, but some locations now offer online scheduling. Check the Department of Public Safety website for your nearest office to see if appointments are available. Walk-ins are accepted, though wait times vary by location and time of day.

How long does a Mississippi driver's license last?

A standard Mississippi driver's license is valid for eight years from the date of issue. A Real ID license is also valid for eight years. You will receive a renewal notice about 60 days before expiration.

What is the difference between a standard license and a Real ID license?

A Real ID license meets federal security standards and is required for domestic air travel and federal building access. It costs $5 more than a standard license and requires an additional document showing your name and date of birth. Both are valid for eight years.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.