Where to renew your Mississippi driver's license

You renew your Mississippi driver's license at a Driver Services office, which is run by the Mississippi Department of Public Safety. There are offices in most counties across the state. You cannot renew by mail or online — you must appear in person and bring the documents listed below.

The main office is in Jackson, but the state operates branch locations in regional centers. You can find the office nearest you and its hours on the Mississippi Department of Public Safety website. Some offices are busier than others; calling ahead to ask about wait times can save you a trip during peak hours.

Key Takeaways

  • You must renew in person at a Driver Services office with your current license, proof of residency, and proof of Social Security number.
  • Standard renewals take about 10 business days; you can request a temporary paper license to drive while you wait.
  • Your license is valid for four years from the date of issue, and you should renew before the expiration date printed on the front.
  • If your license is expired, you can still renew at any Driver Services office without taking a new written test.
  • The renewal fee is $24 for a four-year license; fees are higher if you also need a Real ID or REAL ID-compliant license.

Documents you need to bring

Bring your current Mississippi driver's license or state ID card. If you have lost it, bring a police report of the loss or a written statement explaining what happened. You will also need proof of your Social Security number — an original Social Security card, W-2 form, or 1099 form all work.

You must show proof of Mississippi residency. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days. A government check or tax return also works. The name on the residency document should match the name on your license; if it does not, bring a document showing the name change, such as a marriage certificate or divorce decree.

Bring your Social Security card or a document showing your number. If you do not have your card, a W-2, 1099, or tax return will do. You will also need to bring payment — cash, check, or debit card are accepted at most offices, though some may accept credit cards.

The renewal process and timeline

Walk into a Driver Services office during business hours with your documents. You will fill out form DL-43 (the driver's license process form) and submit it with your documents and payment. The staff will take a new photograph and process your process on the spot.

Your new license will be mailed to the address on file, usually within 10 business days. You can request a temporary paper license at the time of renewal — this allows you to drive legally while you wait for the plastic card to arrive. The temporary license is valid for 45 days.

If you need your license sooner, some offices offer expedited service for an additional fee. Ask at your local office whether this option is available and what the cost is.

Real ID and REAL ID-compliant licenses

A standard Mississippi driver's license is not a Real ID. If you want a REAL ID-compliant license — which is required to board a domestic flight or enter a federal building — you must request it at renewal and bring additional documents.

For a REAL ID license, bring everything listed above plus an original or certified copy of your birth certificate. The fee is higher than a standard renewal; as of 2024, a REAL ID license costs more than a standard license, though the exact amount varies. Ask the office staff for the current fee when you arrive.

If you do not need Real ID and do not plan to fly domestically or visit federal facilities, a standard license renewal is sufficient and costs less.

What happens if your license is expired

You can still renew an expired Mississippi driver's license at any Driver Services office. You will not be required to take a written test or a driving test — the renewal process is the same as if your license were still valid. Bring the same documents and follow the same steps.

However, you should not drive with an expired license. Once your license has expired, it is no longer valid for driving, and you could be cited by law enforcement. Renew before the expiration date printed on the front of your card.

Changing your name or address during renewal

If you have changed your name since your last license was issued, bring a document proving the change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. The staff will update your name on the new license at no additional cost.

If you have moved to a new address in Mississippi, the staff will update your address during renewal. You do not need to do anything special; just bring proof of your new residency. If you have moved out of state, you will need to renew in your new state instead.

Fees and payment methods

A standard four-year driver's license renewal costs $24. A REAL ID-compliant license costs more; check with your local office for the exact amount. Some offices accept cash, check, and debit card; a few also accept credit cards. Call ahead if you want to confirm what payment methods your office takes.

There is no additional fee for a temporary paper license, though some offices may charge a small amount. Ask when you arrive.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my license before the expiration date?

Yes. You can renew your license up to one year before it expires. This is useful if you are planning a trip and want a fresh license, or if you want to change your address or name at the same time.

What if I have moved out of state?

You must renew your license in your new state. Contact the driver's license office in your new state to learn what documents you need. You may be able to surrender your Mississippi license by mail or in person, depending on the state.

Do I need an appointment to renew?

Most Mississippi Driver Services offices do not require appointments for standard renewals. You can walk in during business hours. However, some offices may offer appointment slots during busy times. Call your local office to ask whether appointments are available or recommended.

What if my name does not match the name on my residency document?

Bring a document showing the name change, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. The staff will update your name and address at the same time. This does not cost extra.

Can I get my license the same day?

No. Your new license is mailed to you and usually arrives within 10 business days. You can request a temporary paper license to drive while you wait. Some offices offer expedited mailing for an additional fee; ask your local office whether this is available.