What you need to renew your Mississippi license
Mississippi requires you to renew your driver's license in person at a Driver Services office. You cannot renew by mail or online, even if your license is not yet expired. The state does not offer remote renewal options.
Before you go to the office, gather these documents: your current Mississippi driver's license, proof of your Social Security number (your Social Security card, W-2, or 1099 form), and proof of your current address (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days). If your name has changed since your last license, bring a certified copy of the document that shows the change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order.
You will also need to pass a vision test at the office. Bring your glasses or contacts if you wear them. The vision screening is part of the renewal process and cannot be done elsewhere.
Key Takeaways
- Mississippi driver's licenses must be renewed in person at a Driver Services office; no mail or online renewal is available.
- Bring your current license, proof of Social Security number, and proof of current address dated within 60 days.
- You will take a vision test at the office, so bring glasses or contacts if you use them.
- Renewal fees and license validity periods depend on your age and license type; check the Mississippi Department of Public Safety website for your specific fee.
- Processing times vary by location, but you typically receive your new license by mail within two to three weeks after your visit.
How long your renewed license is valid
The length of time your new license is valid depends on your age. If you are under 65, your license is valid for eight years from the date of renewal. If you are 65 or older, your license is valid for four years.
Mississippi does not issue licenses that expire on your birthday. Instead, your expiration date is set based on the renewal date and your age category. You can check your current expiration date on the front of your license.
Finding a Driver Services office and scheduling
Mississippi has Driver Services offices in most counties. You can find the office nearest you and its hours on the Mississippi Department of Public Safety website. Some offices are located in county courthouses; others are standalone facilities.
Walk-in service is available at most offices, but wait times vary. Some locations offer appointment scheduling through the Department of Public Safety website. If your local office offers appointments, booking one can reduce your wait time significantly. Check your office's page to see whether appointments are available in your area.
Hours vary by location. Many offices are open Monday through Friday during standard business hours, but some have extended evening or Saturday hours. Call ahead or check the website to confirm hours before you go, especially if you are traveling a distance.
What happens at your renewal appointment
When you arrive at the Driver Services office, you will check in and submit your documents. A staff member will verify your proof of Social Security number and address. They will ask you to confirm or update your address, emergency contact information, and organ donation preference.
You will then take the vision test. The screener will check your vision with and without your glasses or contacts if you wear them. If you do not pass the vision test, you may be required to see an eye care professional and bring a vision correction certificate back to the office before your license can be issued.
After the vision test, you will have your photograph taken for the new license. You will also pay the renewal fee. The fee varies depending on your age and license type; check the Department of Public Safety website or call your local office for the exact amount.
How to get your renewed license after your visit
Your new license is mailed to the address you provided at the office. Standard processing takes two to three weeks. You will receive a temporary paper license at the office that you can use while you wait for your permanent license to arrive by mail.
Keep the temporary license with you while driving until your new license arrives. It is valid for the same period as your permanent license and serves as proof of your renewal while the permanent card is in transit.
If your new license does not arrive within four weeks, contact the Driver Services office where you renewed. They can check the status of your license and reissue it if there was a mailing problem.
Renewing before your license expires
You can renew your license up to 90 days before it expires. Many people renew early to avoid the rush near the expiration date or to may support they have a valid license for travel. The renewal process is the same whether you renew early or close to your expiration date.
If your license has already expired, you can still renew it using the same process. There is no grace period in Mississippi, so an expired license is not valid for driving. However, the renewal procedure does not change — you still go to the Driver Services office with the same documents.
Special situations and exceptions
If you have a commercial driver's license (CDL), renewal rules are different and more complex. CDL renewals require a medical examination and may have additional testing requirements. Contact your local Driver Services office or the Mississippi Department of Public Safety for CDL-specific information.
If you are renewing a license that was suspended or revoked, you must first resolve the suspension or revocation with the court or the Department of Public Safety. You cannot renew until the suspension or revocation is lifted. Contact the office that issued the suspension for instructions on how to restore your driving privileges.
Military members stationed outside Mississippi can request a mail renewal or extension in some cases. Contact the Driver Services office to ask whether you are may be able to access for an extension while deployed or stationed overseas.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my Mississippi license online or by mail?
No. Mississippi requires all driver's license renewals to be done in person at a Driver Services office. There is no online or mail renewal option, even if your license is not yet expired.
What if I lost my Social Security card and don't have another proof of my Social Security number?
You can use a W-2 form, 1099 form, or other tax document that shows your Social Security number. If you do not have any of these, contact the Social Security Administration to request a replacement card or a letter showing your number before you go to the Driver Services office.
Do I have to take the vision test again if I just had my eyes checked by an optometrist?
Yes. Mississippi requires a vision test at the Driver Services office as part of the renewal process. You cannot substitute an eye exam from an optometrist or ophthalmologist, even if it is recent. However, if you fail the office vision test, you can get a vision correction certificate from an eye care professional and bring it back.
How much does a Mississippi driver's license renewal cost?
The fee depends on your age and license type. Check the Mississippi Department of Public Safety website or call your local Driver Services office for the current fee. Fees are paid at the time of your visit.
What if I move to a different address after I renew but before my new license arrives?
Contact the Driver Services office where you renewed and provide your new address. They can update your mailing address so your license is sent to the correct location. You can also update your address online through the Department of Public Safety website if that option is available.