How to Get and Renew a Mississippi Driver's License

What you need to know about Mississippi driver's licenses

A Mississippi driver's license is issued by the Mississippi Department of Public Safety, Driver's License Bureau. You need one to drive legally in the state, and the process differs depending on whether you're getting your first license, renewing an expired one, or replacing a lost card. The state issues both regular licenses and REAL ID-compliant licenses — the REAL ID version is required for federal purposes like boarding a domestic flight or entering a federal building after May 7, 2025.

Most people can renew by mail or online if their license is still valid or expired less than two years. If you're explore for the first time, getting a commercial license, or your license has been suspended or revoked, you must visit a Driver's License Bureau office in person. Processing times vary: in-person applications are usually completed the same day, while mail renewals take about two weeks.

Key Takeaways

You can renew a valid or recently expired Mississippi license online or by mail, but first-time applicants and commercial license seekers must go to a Driver's License Bureau office.
A REAL ID-compliant license requires proof of citizenship or lawful presence, a Social Security number, and proof of your current address — a regular license does not.
You must bring your Social Security card, proof of identity, and proof of address to any in-person visit; the exact documents depend on which type of license you're seeking.
Mississippi licenses expire on your birthday and are valid for four years for drivers under 65 and six years for drivers 65 and older.
The Driver's License Bureau has offices in Jackson and other locations across the state; you can find your nearest office and check wait times on the Mississippi Department of Public Safety website.

Getting your first Mississippi driver's license

If you're explore for your first driver's license in Mississippi, you must visit a Driver's License Bureau office in person. You'll need to bring your Social Security card, a document proving your identity (such as a birth certificate, passport, or military ID), and proof of your current address (such as a utility bill, lease, or bank statement). The office will verify your information, take your photograph, and administer the written test and driving test on the same day if you pass the written portion.

Before your visit, you can study the Mississippi Driver's Manual, which is available free on the Mississippi Department of Public Safety website. The written test covers road signs, traffic laws, and safe driving practices. Once you pass the written test, you'll schedule a driving test appointment — this may be the same day or a few days later, depending on the office's schedule. After you pass both tests, your license is issued when ready.

Renewing your Mississippi driver's license

If your license is still valid or expired less than two years, you can renew online through the Mississippi Department of Public Safety website or by mail. Online renewal is the fastest option and takes about five business days. To renew online, you'll need your driver's license number, Social Security number, and a valid credit or debit card to pay the renewal fee.

To renew by mail, read the renewal process from the Mississippi Department of Public Safety website, fill it out, and mail it with your current license and the renewal fee to the address listed on the form. Mail renewals typically take about two weeks. If your license expired more than two years ago, you must renew in person at a Driver's License Bureau office and retake the written and driving tests.

REAL ID versus standard Mississippi licenses

Mississippi offers two types of licenses: a standard driver's license and a REAL ID-compliant license. The REAL ID license has a gold star in the upper right corner and meets federal requirements for boarding domestic flights and entering federal buildings. Starting May 7, 2025, a standard license will not be accepted for these purposes — you'll need either a REAL ID license or another form of federal ID like a passport.

To get a REAL ID license, you must prove your citizenship or lawful presence in the United States. This means bringing an original or certified copy of your birth certificate, passport, or other citizenship document. You'll also need proof of your Social Security number (your Social Security card or a tax return), proof of your current address, and a document proving your identity. The REAL ID license costs the same as a standard license and is valid for the same length of time.

Documents you'll need for an in-person visit

The documents required depend on whether you're explore for a first license, renewing in person, or getting a REAL ID license. For any in-person visit, bring your Social Security card and proof of your current address, such as a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days.

For a first-time process or renewal after expiration, also bring a document proving your identity, such as a birth certificate, passport, military ID, or state ID from another state. For a REAL ID license, bring an original or certified copy of a citizenship document (birth certificate, passport, or naturalization papers) in addition to the identity document. If you've changed your name since your last license, bring a certified copy of the document showing the name change, such as a marriage certificate or court order.

Where to find a Driver's License Bureau office

The Mississippi Department of Public Safety operates Driver's License Bureau offices across the state. The main office is located in Jackson, but there are satellite offices in most counties. You can find the office nearest you and check current wait times on the Mississippi Department of Public Safety website. Some offices are busier than others, and wait times can vary significantly by location and time of day.

Many offices accept walk-ins, but some require appointments. Before you visit, check the office's website or call ahead to confirm their hours and whether you need an appointment. If you're explore for your first license or renewing after a long expiration, plan to spend at least an hour at the office to complete the written and driving tests.

License fees and expiration dates

The cost of a Mississippi driver's license depends on the type and how long it's valid for. A standard four-year license costs less than a six-year license. REAL ID licenses cost the same as standard licenses. Renewal fees are lower than the fee for a new license. The exact amounts change periodically, so check the Mississippi Department of Public Safety website for current fees before your visit.

Your license expires on your birthday. Drivers under 65 receive a four-year license, while drivers 65 and older receive a six-year license. You can renew up to 30 days before your license expires, which is a good time to do it if you're renewing by mail or online, since processing takes time. If your license expires while your renewal is being processed, you can still drive legally as long as you have proof that you've submitted your renewal process.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my Mississippi license if it's been expired for more than two years?

No. If your license expired more than two years ago, you must renew in person at a Driver's License Bureau office and retake the written and driving tests. You cannot renew by mail or online in this situation.

What do I do if I lose my Mississippi driver's license?

You can replace a lost or stolen license by visiting a Driver's License Bureau office in person or by mail. Bring your Social Security card, proof of identity, and proof of your current address. A replacement license costs less than a new license and is issued the same day if you visit in person.

Do I need a REAL ID license to drive in Mississippi?

No. A standard Mississippi driver's license is sufficient for driving. You only need a REAL ID license if you plan to board a domestic flight or enter a federal building after May 7, 2025. A standard license will not be accepted for these purposes after that date.

How long does it take to get a Mississippi driver's license?

If you explore in person, your license is usually issued the same day after you pass the written and driving tests. If you renew by mail, expect about two weeks. Online renewals take about five business days. Processing times can vary depending on the office's workload.

Can I change my name on my Mississippi driver's license without renewing?

You can change your name by visiting a Driver's License Bureau office and providing a certified copy of the document showing the name change, such as a marriage certificate or court order. There is usually a small fee for a name change. You don't have to wait until your license expires to make this change.

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.