What you need to do to renew in Mississippi
In Mississippi, you can renew your driver's license by mail, online, or in person at a Driver Services office. Mail renewal is the simplest route if your license is not expired and you have no medical conditions or legal holds on your record. Online renewal through the Mississippi Department of Public Safety website works the same way — you'll need your current license number, Social Security number, and a valid payment method. If your license has been expired for more than a year, if you've had a name change, or if you have any restrictions or medical notes on your current license, you must renew in person.
Your license is valid for eight years from the date of issue. Mississippi sends renewal notices about 60 days before expiration, but you don't have to wait for the notice to start the process. You can renew up to one year before your license expires, which can be useful if you're planning travel or know you'll be busy closer to the expiration date.
Key Takeaways
- Mail and online renewal are available only if your current license is not expired and you have no medical conditions or legal issues on your record.
- Your Mississippi driver's license is valid for eight years, and you can begin the renewal process up to one year before it expires.
- In-person renewal at a Driver Services office is required if your license has been expired for more than a year, if you've changed your name, or if you have restrictions or medical notes.
- The renewal fee is $31 for an eight-year license, and you'll need to bring your current license, proof of residency, and a valid payment method.
Renewing by mail in Mississippi
Mail renewal is the fastest option if you're may be able to access. You'll receive a renewal notice in the mail about 60 days before your license expires. The notice includes a prepaid envelope and instructions. Fill out the form, include your current license, and mail it back. Processing typically takes two to three weeks from the date the office receives your envelope.
You cannot use mail renewal if your license has already expired, if you've had a name change since your last license was issued, or if your license has medical restrictions or other special notations. You also cannot renew by mail if there are any legal holds or suspensions on your driving record. If any of these explore to you, you'll need to renew in person instead.
Renewing online through the Mississippi Department of Public Safety
Online renewal through the Mississippi Department of Public Safety website is available 24 hours a day and requires no mail time. You'll need your current license number, your Social Security number, and a credit or debit card to pay the $31 renewal fee. The system will verify your information against state records and issue a temporary digital license when ready after payment.
Your physical license will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days. Like mail renewal, online renewal is only available if your license is not expired and you have no medical conditions, name changes, or legal holds on your record. If you're unsure whether you're may be able to access, you can call the Mississippi Driver Services customer service line at 601-987-1212 before you attempt to renew online.
Renewing in person at a Driver Services office
In-person renewal is required if your license has been expired for more than a year, if you've changed your name, or if your license has medical restrictions or other special notations. You'll need to visit a Driver Services office with your current license (or expired license if renewal by mail or online is not an option), proof of residency such as a utility bill or lease, and payment for the $31 renewal fee. Bring a valid payment method — cash, check, or card — because not all offices accept all payment types.
Driver Services offices are located in most county seats across Mississippi. Wait times vary by location and time of day. You can find the office nearest you and check current hours on the Mississippi Department of Public Safety website. Some offices accept walk-ins only, while others allow you to schedule an appointment. Calling ahead to confirm hours and whether appointments are available can save you a trip.
What to bring and what it costs
For any renewal method, you'll need your current driver's license or state ID. If you're renewing in person, bring proof of residency — a utility bill, lease agreement, bank statement, or government mail addressed to you at your current address will work. The renewal fee is $31 for an eight-year license, and you can pay by cash, check, or card depending on the method you choose.
If your name has changed since your last license was issued — through marriage, divorce, or legal name change — you'll need to bring a certified copy of the document that proves the change, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. This document must be presented in person; you cannot renew by mail or online with a name change on your record.
What happens if your license has already expired
If your license expired less than a year ago, you can still renew by mail or online using the same process as a current license holder. If your license expired more than a year ago, you must renew in person at a Driver Services office. Driving with an expired license is illegal in Mississippi, even if you've already started the renewal process.
When you renew an expired license in person, bring the expired license itself along with your proof of residency and payment. The office will issue you a new license with a new eight-year validity period. If you've lost your expired license, bring a photo ID such as a passport or state ID instead.
After your renewal is complete
If you renewed by mail or online, your new physical license will arrive by mail. During the time you're waiting, your temporary digital license is valid for driving. Keep the temporary confirmation email or receipt in your vehicle until your physical license arrives. If you renewed in person, you'll receive your new license when ready or within a few days, depending on whether the office issues licenses on-site.
Your new license will have the same number as your previous one unless you requested a change. The expiration date will be eight years from the date of renewal. If you don't receive your new license within the expected timeframe, contact the Mississippi Driver Services office where you renewed or call 601-987-1212 to check the status.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my license if I have a suspended or revoked status?
No. If your license is suspended or revoked, you cannot renew it. You must contact the Mississippi Driver Services office to understand why the suspension or revocation is in place and what steps are required to restore your driving privileges before you can renew. Call 601-987-1212 for information about your specific case.
What if I've moved to a different address since my last license?
You can update your address during renewal. If you're renewing by mail or online, your new address will be recorded automatically. If you're renewing in person, bring proof of your new address such as a utility bill or lease. Your new license will show your current address.
Do I need to take a new photo for license renewal?
If you're renewing by mail or online, your existing photo will be used. If you're renewing in person, a new photo will be taken at the Driver Services office. You cannot bring your own photo or use a photo from a previous license.
How long does it take to get my renewed license?
Mail renewal takes two to three weeks from the date the office receives your envelope. Online renewal issues a temporary digital license when ready and mails your physical license within 7 to 10 business days. In-person renewal provides your license when ready or within a few days, depending on whether the office issues licenses on-site.
Can I renew my license if I'm out of state?
Yes. If you're a Mississippi resident living out of state, you can renew by mail or online as long as your license is not expired and you have no medical conditions or legal holds. If you need to renew in person, you'll need to visit a Driver Services office in Mississippi or contact the office to discuss other options.