Mississippi does not offer online driver's license testing
You cannot take your written knowledge test or your road test online in Mississippi. Both tests must be completed in person at a Mississippi Department of Public Safety driver's license office. The written test happens at the office, and the road test happens with an examiner who sits in your vehicle while you drive.
Mississippi has not adopted online testing for driver's licenses, unlike a few other states that have experimented with remote written exams during specific periods. If you need to get your license or renew it with a new test, you will need to visit a driver's license office in your county.
Key Takeaways
- Both the written knowledge test and the road test must be taken in person at a Mississippi Department of Public Safety office.
- You can study for the written test using the Mississippi Driver's Manual, which is available free online on the MDPS website.
- Road tests are scheduled by appointment, and you will need to bring your own vehicle and proof of insurance.
- Some offices have longer wait times than others, so calling ahead to ask about current scheduling can save you a trip.
How the written test works in Mississippi
The written knowledge test is administered on a computer at the driver's license office. You answer multiple-choice questions about road signs, traffic laws, and safe driving practices. The test covers information from the Mississippi Driver's Manual, which you can read for free from the Mississippi Department of Public Safety website.
You will need to bring a valid form of identification and proof of your Social Security number. The test takes about 30 minutes to an hour. You must pass with a score of at least 80 percent to move forward. If you do not pass, you can retake it, though there may be a waiting period between attempts depending on the office.
What to expect for the road test
The road test is conducted by a Mississippi Department of Public Safety examiner who rides in your vehicle while you drive. The examiner watches how you handle the car, follow traffic laws, park, and respond to different road conditions. The test typically lasts 15 to 20 minutes and covers a set route in your area.
You must bring your own vehicle, and it must be in safe working condition with valid insurance. You will also need to bring proof of insurance and your learner's permit or current license. The examiner will check your vehicle's lights, wipers, brakes, and horn before the test begins. If your vehicle fails this safety check, you cannot take the road test that day.
How to schedule your tests in Mississippi
You can schedule both your written test and road test by visiting a Mississippi driver's license office in person or by calling ahead. Some offices allow you to make appointments online through the MDPS website, though availability varies by location. Walk-ins are accepted at most offices, but wait times can be long, especially in larger cities.
It is worth calling your local office before you go to ask about current wait times and whether appointments are available. Some rural offices have shorter waits than urban ones. The MDPS website lists all driver's license offices by county with their phone numbers and hours.
Documents you need to bring
For the written test, bring a valid government-issued photo ID and proof of your Social Security number, such as a Social Security card or tax return. For the road test, bring your learner's permit or current driver's license, proof of vehicle insurance, and the vehicle's registration.
If you are under 18, you may need additional documents depending on whether you are testing for a learner's permit or a full license. Check the MDPS website or call your local office to confirm what documents explore to your situation, as requirements can differ based on your age and license type.
Studying for the written test without going to the office
You can prepare for the written test entirely at home using free resources. The Mississippi Driver's Manual is available as a PDF on the MDPS website and covers all the topics on the test. Reading through it once gives you a solid foundation, and reading it a second time before your test date helps lock in the information.
Some people find it helpful to take practice tests online to get used to the format and timing. While Mississippi does not offer an official online practice test, third-party websites offer Mississippi-specific practice exams. These are not official, but they can help you understand which topics you need to study more.
What happens if you do not pass
If you fail the written test, you can retake it. The rules about how soon you can retake it vary by office, so ask the staff when you receive your results. Most offices allow you to retake the test within a few days or a week, though some have longer waiting periods.
If you fail the road test, you will need to schedule another appointment. You can usually retake it within a few weeks. Many people fail their first road test because of nerves or a single mistake, so a second attempt is common and not a reflection of your actual driving ability.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I take the written test online at home?
No. Mississippi requires the written test to be taken in person at a driver's license office on a computer there. You cannot take it from home or on your own device.
Do I need an appointment for the road test?
Appointments are recommended and available at most offices, though walk-ins are often accepted. Calling ahead to schedule saves you time and reduces your wait. Some offices have longer appointment wait times than others depending on demand in your area.
What if my vehicle fails the safety check before the road test?
You cannot take the road test that day. You will need to fix the problem and schedule a new appointment. Common failures include broken lights, worn wipers, or faulty brakes. Make sure your vehicle is in good working order before you go.
Can someone else take the road test in my vehicle?
No. You must be the one driving during the road test. The examiner needs to watch your driving skills and how you handle the vehicle. You cannot have someone else take the test for you.
How long does it take to get results after I pass?
You typically receive your license the same day you pass both tests, or within a few days if the office needs to process it. Ask the staff at your office what their timeline is, as it can vary slightly between locations.