What you need to do to replace your Mississippi driver's license
To replace a lost or damaged Mississippi driver's license, you must visit a Driver Services office in person with proof of identity and residency. Mississippi does not offer online or mail-in replacement for lost licenses — you cannot order a replacement without appearing at an office. The process takes about 15 minutes once you're at the counter, and your new license is issued the same day. You'll pay a replacement fee, which varies depending on how much time remains on your current license.
The state issues licenses valid for eight years. If your license expires within the next year, you may be able to renew it at the same time you replace it, which can save you a trip later. However, you cannot renew early just because you're replacing a lost license — the renewal window opens only within 180 days of expiration.
Key Takeaways
- You must appear in person at a Mississippi Driver Services office with a valid ID and proof of residency; no online or mail replacement is available.
- Bring your Social Security number or a document showing it, such as a Social Security card, birth certificate, or tax return.
- Proof of residency can be a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or government mail dated within the last 60 days.
- The replacement fee depends on how long your current license is valid; you pay only for the remaining time on your license term.
- Your new license is issued the same day you explore, and you can drive legally while waiting for it to arrive by mail if you request a temporary paper license.
Documents you must bring to the Driver Services office
Mississippi requires two categories of documents: proof of identity and proof of residency. For identity, bring your original Social Security card, birth certificate, passport, or a recent tax return showing your Social Security number. If you don't have a Social Security card, a W-2 form or 1099 form works. The document must show your full legal name and Social Security number.
For residency, bring a document dated within the last 60 days showing your current Mississippi address. Acceptable documents include a utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet), a lease or rental agreement, a mortgage statement, property tax bill, homeowner's insurance policy, or government mail such as a tax notice or voter registration card. A bank statement or credit card statement does not count as proof of residency in Mississippi.
You will also need to provide your current license number if you remember it, though the office can look it up if you don't. Bring your Social Security number in writing if you're uncomfortable saying it aloud.
Where to go and what to expect at the office
Mississippi operates Driver Services offices in all 82 counties. The main office is located in Jackson, but you can visit any county office regardless of where you live or where your license was originally issued. Office hours vary by location, but most are open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., with some locations closing for lunch. A few offices have extended hours or Saturday hours — check the Mississippi Department of Public Safety website for your specific county.
Arrive early if possible. Wait times vary widely depending on the office and time of day. Some offices have online appointment scheduling, which can reduce your wait. Walk-ins are accepted at all offices, but you may wait 30 minutes to two hours during peak times. The actual transaction at the counter takes about 15 minutes.
When you arrive, take a number and wait to be called. Tell the clerk you need to replace a lost or damaged license. The clerk will verify your identity documents, take a new photo, and ask you to sign the back of your new license. You'll pay the replacement fee at that time. Cash, debit, and credit cards are accepted at most offices, but call ahead if you want to confirm payment methods at your specific location.
Replacement fees and what affects the cost
The replacement fee in Mississippi depends on how much time remains on your current license. If your license expires within one year, the fee is lower than if it expires in two to eight years. The state does not publish exact fee amounts on its website, but you can call your county Driver Services office or the main Jackson office to ask the current fee for your situation.
If you want to renew your license at the same time you replace it — which you can do only if your license expires within 180 days — you'll pay both the replacement fee and the renewal fee. This is usually more expensive than replacing alone, but it means you won't need to return to renew in a few months.
Getting a temporary license while you wait for your permanent one
When you complete your replacement at the Driver Services office, you can request a temporary paper license valid for 45 days. This temporary license allows you to drive legally while your permanent license is being mailed to you. The permanent license typically arrives within 7 to 10 business days, though it can take longer during high-volume periods.
The temporary license is printed on paper and is not a valid form of ID for purposes other than driving — you cannot use it to board a plane or enter a federal building. If you need a photo ID for non-driving purposes before your permanent license arrives, you'll need to bring your original identity documents with you.
If your license was damaged rather than lost
If your license is damaged but still readable, you can still replace it using the same process. Bring the damaged license with you to the office along with your proof of identity and residency. The clerk will take the damaged license and issue you a new one. You do not need to explain how it was damaged.
If your license is so damaged that your name or photo is no longer visible, the office may require you to retake your photo. This is rare, but if it happens, the process is the same as a standard replacement — you'll still be issued a new license the same day.
What to do if you cannot visit an office in person
Mississippi does not offer remote replacement for lost licenses. If you are unable to visit a Driver Services office due to disability, illness, or other hardship, you can contact your county office to ask about accommodations. Some offices may be able to process your replacement by phone or mail in limited circumstances, but this is not standard and is not may provide.
If you are out of state or out of the country, you must still visit a Mississippi Driver Services office in person when you return. You cannot have someone else pick up your replacement license on your behalf. If you will be away for an extended period, consider whether you can visit an office before you leave.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I replace my license if it's suspended or revoked?
No. You cannot replace a suspended or revoked license. You must first resolve the suspension or revocation through the court or the Mississippi Department of Public Safety. Once the suspension or revocation is lifted, you can replace your license normally. Contact your county Driver Services office to find out the status of your license before you visit.
What if I don't have a Social Security number?
You must provide a Social Security number to replace your license in Mississippi. If you do not have one, you will need to obtain one from the Social Security Administration before you can replace your license. This is a separate process that takes several weeks. Contact the Social Security Administration or visit your local Social Security office for information.
How long does it take to receive my new license in the mail?
Your permanent license typically arrives within 7 to 10 business days of your visit to the Driver Services office. During high-volume periods or holidays, it may take longer. You can drive legally using your temporary paper license during this time. If your license does not arrive within two weeks, contact your county Driver Services office to check the status.
Can I change my name or address at the same time I replace my license?
Yes. If you've changed your name due to marriage, divorce, or court order, bring your legal name change document (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order) along with your other documents. If you've moved, bring your new proof of residency. The office will update both your name and address on your new license at no additional cost.
What if I lost my license out of state?
You must replace it at a Mississippi Driver Services office. You cannot replace a Mississippi license at an office in another state. If you are currently out of state, you'll need to return to Mississippi or wait until you do to replace your license. You can drive in other states using your temporary paper license if you received one, but you cannot obtain a replacement license remotely.