What you need to do to renew in Mississippi
Mississippi renews driver's licenses by mail, in person at a Driver Services office, or online through their website — which option works for you depends on when your license expires and whether you need to change your address or photo. Most people can renew by mail or online without visiting an office. You'll need your current license, proof of residency (a utility bill or bank statement dated within 60 days), and a check or money order for the renewal fee, which varies by license type and how many years you're renewing for.
The process takes different amounts of time depending on which method you choose. Mail renewal typically takes two to three weeks from the date the Driver Services office receives your materials. Online renewal is faster — you can complete it in minutes, though the new license still ships by mail and takes about a week to arrive. In-person renewal at a Driver Services office is when ready if you bring all required documents, though you may wait in line.
Key Takeaways
- Mississippi allows you to renew by mail, online, or in person, and most people can use mail or online without visiting an office.
- You will need your current license, proof of residency dated within 60 days, and payment by check or money order (mail) or debit/credit card (online).
- Mail renewal takes two to three weeks; online renewal takes about a week; in-person renewal is when ready but requires a trip to a Driver Services office.
- If your license has been expired for more than five years, you cannot renew by mail or online and must visit a Driver Services office in person.
Renewing by mail
To renew by mail, contact the Mississippi Department of Public Safety Driver Services office or visit their website to request a renewal process. You can also pick up an process at any Driver Services office. Fill out the process completely, including your current address. If you've moved, include your new address and proof of residency — a utility bill, bank statement, lease agreement, or mortgage statement dated within the last 60 days.
Mail your completed process, current license, proof of residency, and payment to the address listed on the process. Payment must be by check or money order made out to the Mississippi Department of Public Safety. Do not send cash. Include the correct renewal fee — this varies based on your license type (regular, commercial, motorcycle) and the number of years you're renewing for. Once the office receives your materials, processing takes two to three weeks. Your new license will arrive by mail at the address you provided.
Renewing online
Online renewal is available through the Mississippi Department of Public Safety website. You'll need your current license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your date of birth to log in. The system will display your current information and ask you to confirm or update your address. If you've moved, you'll need to upload a photo of your proof of residency — a utility bill, bank statement, lease, or mortgage statement dated within 60 days.
Payment is by debit card or credit card. Once you submit your process and payment, you'll receive a confirmation number. Your new license will be mailed to the address on file and should arrive within about a week. Online renewal is not available if your license has been expired for more than five years, if you need a new photo, or if you're changing your name or gender marker.
Renewing in person at a Driver Services office
Visit any Mississippi Driver Services office with your current license, proof of residency dated within 60 days, and payment. Bring a check, money order, or debit/credit card — offices accept all three. If you've moved, bring proof of your new address. You may also need to bring your Social Security card or a document showing your Social Security number, depending on the office and what information they have on file.
Bring a recent photo ID if you need a new photo on your license (this is required every 12 years or when you renew after expiration). The office will take a new photo during your visit. Processing is when ready — you'll receive a temporary license to use right away, and your permanent license will arrive by mail within one to two weeks. In-person renewal is the only option if your license has been expired for more than five years.
What happens if your license has been expired for more than five years
If your license expired more than five years ago, you cannot renew by mail or online. You must visit a Driver Services office in person. Bring your expired license, proof of residency, and payment. The office will process your renewal on the spot and issue a temporary license. Your permanent license will arrive by mail within one to two weeks.
The renewal fee is the same whether your license is current or expired, so there is no penalty for renewing late. However, you cannot legally drive until your license is renewed, so do not delay if your license has expired.
Finding a Driver Services office and checking hours
Mississippi has Driver Services offices in most counties. You can find the office nearest you and check its hours on the Mississippi Department of Public Safety website. Offices are typically open Monday through Friday during business hours, though some locations have extended hours or Saturday hours. Call ahead to confirm hours before you visit, as some offices close for lunch or have limited staffing on certain days.
Bring all required documents to avoid a wasted trip. If you're unsure whether you have everything you need, call the office before you go. Wait times vary by location and time of day — visiting early in the morning or mid-week typically means shorter lines than visiting on Friday afternoon.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my license if I've changed my name?
If you've changed your name due to marriage, divorce, or court order, you must renew in person at a Driver Services office. Bring your current license, legal name change document (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order), proof of residency, and payment. The office will issue a new license with your updated name.
What if I don't have proof of residency?
Proof of residency must be dated within 60 days and show your name and current address. Acceptable documents include utility bills, bank statements, lease agreements, mortgage statements, and insurance bills. If you cannot obtain one of these, contact your local Driver Services office to ask about alternative documents they may accept.
Can I renew my license if I'm out of state?
Yes, you can renew by mail or online from anywhere. Mail renewal and online renewal both work for people living outside Mississippi. If you're out of state and need an in-person renewal (for example, if your license expired more than five years ago), you'll need to visit a Driver Services office in Mississippi or contact the office about other options.
How much does it cost to renew?
The renewal fee depends on your license type and how many years you're renewing for. Fees vary, so check the Mississippi Department of Public Safety website or call your local Driver Services office for the exact amount. Payment by mail must be by check or money order; online and in-person renewals accept debit cards, credit cards, checks, and money orders.
What if my license was lost or stolen?
If your license was lost or stolen rather than expired, you need a replacement, not a renewal. Contact your local Driver Services office about the replacement process, which is different from renewal and may have different requirements and fees.