What You Need to Do to Renew in Mississippi
To renew your Mississippi driver's license, you must visit a Driver Services office in person with your current license and proof of residency. Mississippi does not allow online or mail renewal for standard licenses. You will need to complete an process, pass a vision test, and pay the renewal fee. The process typically takes 30 minutes to an hour, depending on how busy the office is that day.
Your license is valid for four years from the date of renewal. If your license has been expired for more than two years, you may need to retake the written driving test in addition to the vision test, so renewing before expiration is worth planning ahead for.
Key Takeaways
- You must renew in person at a Mississippi Driver Services office with your current license and proof of residency.
- The renewal fee is $24 for a four-year license, and you will need to pass a vision test.
- Bring a document that shows your current address, such as a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days.
- If your license expired more than two years ago, you will need to retake the written driving test as well as the vision test.
Documents to Bring to the Driver Services Office
Bring your current Mississippi driver's license and one document that proves your current address. Acceptable proof of residency includes a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, bank statement, or government mail dated within the last 60 days. A bill with your name and address on it works best.
If you have changed your name since your last license was issued, bring a certified copy of the document that shows the change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. If you are renewing a REAL ID-compliant license, you will also need to bring proof of your Social Security number, such as a Social Security card or W-2 form.
Finding a Driver Services Office and Making an Appointment
Mississippi has Driver Services offices in most counties. You can find the office nearest you by visiting the Mississippi Department of Public Safety website and searching their office locator. Some offices accept walk-ins, but many now require appointments, especially in larger cities. Calling ahead to confirm hours and whether you need an appointment will save you a trip.
If you cannot reach an office by phone, you can schedule an appointment online through the Mississippi DPS website. The appointment system shows available times at each location. During busy seasons, appointments may be booked several weeks out, so plan accordingly if you have a specific important date.
What Happens During Your Renewal Visit
When you arrive at the Driver Services office, you will check in and wait to be called. A staff member will review your documents, take a new photo, and have you read letters on a vision chart to confirm you can see well enough to drive. You will then complete the DL-44 process form, which asks for your address, emergency contact, and whether you want to be an organ donor.
After you pass the vision test and complete the form, you will pay the $24 renewal fee. The office will issue your new license on the spot or mail it to you within 7 to 10 business days, depending on the office. Ask which method applies at your location before you leave.
If Your License Has Been Expired for More Than Two Years
If your license expired more than two years ago, you cannot straightforward renew it. Instead, you will need to retake the written driving test and the vision test, as if you were getting a license for the first time. You will still not need to retake the road test, but the written test covers road signs, right-of-way rules, and safe driving practices.
Study materials for the written test are available on the Mississippi DPS website. You can take practice tests online to prepare. Bring the same documents you would for a regular renewal, plus any proof of residency. The fee remains $24, and the process takes longer because of the written test, so plan for 45 minutes to an hour.
REAL ID Compliance and Your New License
Mississippi now issues REAL ID-compliant licenses by default. These licenses have a gold star in the upper right corner and can be used for federal purposes like boarding domestic flights or entering federal buildings. If you do not want a REAL ID license, you can request a standard license instead, but you will need a passport or other federal ID to board flights.
To get a REAL ID license, bring proof of your Social Security number (Social Security card, W-2, or tax return), proof of your current address, and your current license. The fee is the same as a standard renewal. If you already have a REAL ID license, your renewal will be REAL ID-compliant unless you specifically request otherwise.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my license by mail or online?
No. Mississippi requires all driver's license renewals to be done in person at a Driver Services office. You must bring your current license and proof of residency to complete the renewal.
What if I lost my license and need to renew it?
You can still renew without your physical license. Bring a copy of your license number if you have it, or the office can look it up using your name and date of birth. You will still need proof of residency and will pay the standard $24 renewal fee.
How long does it take to get my new license after I renew?
Some offices issue your license on the spot before you leave. Others mail it to you within 7 to 10 business days. Ask the staff member which method your office uses when you complete your renewal.
Do I need an appointment, or can I just walk in?
It depends on the office. Many larger offices now require appointments, while smaller rural offices may accept walk-ins. Call your local Driver Services office or check the Mississippi DPS website to see whether appointments are required in your area.
What if my address has changed since my last renewal?
You will update your address on the DL-44 process form during your renewal visit. Bring a document showing your new address dated within the last 60 days, such as a utility bill or lease agreement.