How to Get a Mississippi Driver’s License: A Complete Guide

Table Of Content

Getting a driver’s license makes you more independent, opening up a whole new world of opportunities. In Mississippi, the process to earn that license is similar to other states as the Graduated Driver’s Licensing program is followed. However, it is important to know about the steps that are involved - for a stress-free experience, of course. This guide will cover everything you need to know about getting a Mississippi driver’s license, whether you're a first-time driver or new to the state. Learn what documents you need, what to expect on test day, and how to make sure you’re ready to pass. Let’s prepare you to hit the road legally and confidently in the Magnolia State!

Driver's License Classes in Mississippi

Mississippi offers several types of driver’s licenses to fit different driving needs, from standard personal use to commercial and motorcycle operation. Each license type has specific requirements and covers different vehicle classes.

Mississippi Class R Driver's License

Who It’s For: General drivers operating everyday vehicles.
What It Covers: This is the standard license for personal vehicles, including most cars and trucks.
Examples: Commuting cars, family SUVs, light pickup trucks

Mississippi Class A Driver's License (Commercial)

Who It’s For: Drivers operating large vehicle combinations.

What It Covers: Allows you to drive combined vehicles with a GVWR over 26,000 pounds, where the towed vehicle exceeds 10,000 pounds.

Examples: Semi-trucks with trailers, large freight trucks

Mississippi Class B Driver's License (Commercial)

Who It’s For: Operators of large, single vehicles used commercially.

What It Covers: For single vehicles with a GVWR over 26,000 pounds, excluding trailers over 10,000 pounds.

Examples: Dump trucks, large box trucks, single commercial buses

Mississippi Class C Driver's License (Commercial)

Who It’s For: Drivers transporting passengers or hazardous materials.

What It Covers: For vehicles carrying 16+ passengers or hazardous cargo.

Examples: School buses, passenger vans, vehicles transporting chemicals or fuel

Mississippi Class D Driver's License (Light Commercial)

Who It’s For: Commercial drivers with smaller commercial vehicles.

What It Covers: Covers vehicles with a GVWR below 26,000 pounds used commercially but not covered by Class A, B, or C.

Examples: Small delivery trucks and light-duty service vehicles

Mississippi Motorcycle Endorsement (M Endorsement)

Who It’s For: Riders who want to operate motorcycles legally.

What It Covers: Required for any motorcycle operator on public roads.

Examples: Motorcycles, scooters, and certain mopeds

Mississippi Driver’s Licenses Process

To drive in Mississippi, you'll need a local driver’s license. Like most other states, Mississippi follows the Graduated Driver’s Licensing system. According to the program, you must go through a series of steps to fully get behind the wheel and establish yourself as a competent driver. Luckily, the process is pretty easy!

Here’s what the licensing program in the Magnolia State looks like:

1. Get a Learner's Permit

A learner's permit lets you practice driving under supervision. It’s your first step toward gaining on-road experience.

2. Get an Intermediate License

An intermediate license lets you drive alone but with some restrictions. This is ideal for gradually gaining more driving independence.

3. Get a Full (Adult) License

With a full license, you’re free to drive without restrictions. You can drive legally and independently!

Stage 1: How to Get a Learner’s Permit in Mississippi

Getting your learner’s permit is the first step to becoming a licensed driver in Mississippi. This permit allows you to practice driving with a licensed adult, helping you build the skills and confidence needed for the road. To qualify, you'll need to meet a few requirements, pass a written test, and show proof of identity and residency. Here’s how to get started!

Eligibility Criteria

To get a learner's permit in Mississippi, you must meet the following criteria:

• Regular Learner’s Permit: You must be at least 15 years old. This permit allows you to drive with a licensed adult driver (21 or older) in the front seat at all times.

• Temporary Learner’s Permit: If you're 14 years old, you can apply for a Temporary Learner’s Permit, but only if you're enrolled in a high school driver education program. This permit allows you to drive an education vehicle with your driving instructor, not with a parent or guardian.

Documents Required

When applying for a learner’s permit in Mississippi, you'll need to provide several documents, including:

• Proof of Identity: A valid birth certificate, passport, or other government-issued ID.

• Proof of Social Security Number: Your Social Security card or a document showing your SSN.

• Proof of Residency: Utility bills, school records, or other official documents showing your Mississippi address.

• Proof of Enrollment in School: If you are under 18, you’ll need to show proof that you’re enrolled in or have completed a school program (such as a transcript or school attendance record).

• Certificate of School Attendance: You need to have your school sign this form to prove you’re currently enrolled. The certificate is valid for 30 days, so make sure you submit it within that time.

• Immigration Documents (if applicable): Non-U.S. citizens should bring their valid immigration papers, passport, or permanent resident card. If you're an international student, you may need to present your I-94 and passport.

Validity

The regular learner’s permit is valid for 2 years. During this time, you must drive under the supervision of an adult (21+) in the front seat. If you're under 18, you must hold this permit for at least six months before applying for a full driver’s license.

Process

Here’s what you need to do to get your Mississippi learner’s permit:

1. Complete the Application Form

Start by downloading the application form from the Mississippi Department of Public Safety (DPS) website. Fill it out carefully, but don’t forget to get your parents' notarized signatures before submitting it. If your parents are divorced, the parent with legal custody must sign the form.

2. Apply in Person

Once you’ve completed the form, head to a local driver’s license office to submit your application. Make sure to find a convenient location near you, which can be done through the DPS website.

3. Bring the Required Documents

To apply for your learner’s permit, you’ll need to gather and bring all the documents mentioned above.

4. Pay the Fee

The fee for your learner’s permit application is $7. You can pay this fee using cash, debit, or credit card. Please note that personal checks are not accepted.

5. Pass the Written Exam

Before you can get your permit, you’ll need to pass a computerized written exam. The exam covers topics such as Mississippi traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices.

6. Pass the Vision Exam

You’ll also need to pass a basic vision test to ensure you meet the necessary eyesight requirements for driving. If the test shows that you need corrective lenses to drive, you’ll be required to get an eye exam from an optometrist and provide the completed vision form (DE26) to the DPS. You can obtain this form at any DPS office.

7. Receive Your Learner’s Permit

After you’ve passed both the written and vision exams, you’ll receive your learner’s permit!

Restrictions

With a learner's permit in Mississippi, there are a few restrictions to keep in mind:

1. Supervised Driving Only

You’re required to have a licensed adult, age 21 or older, in the front passenger seat at all times when you’re driving. This adult must have a valid driver’s license.

2. No Unsupervised Driving

Learner's permit holders cannot drive alone. Every time you’re on the road, you need to have a supervising adult with you.

3. Passenger Limitations

To minimize distractions, it’s best to limit passengers, especially younger ones, when driving with a learner's permit.

4. Nighttime Driving Restrictions

While Mississippi law does not specifically restrict nighttime driving with a learner’s permit, it’s generally recommended that permit holders practice during daylight hours. Some supervising adults may prefer limiting night driving until more experience is gained.

5. Permit Duration and Road Test Eligibility

You must hold your learner’s permit for at least six months before you’re eligible to take the road test for an intermediate or full license. You also have a maximum of two years to complete your driving test, or you’ll need to renew the permit.

Stage 2: How to Get a Mississippi Intermediate Driver’s License

Once you've gained enough practice with your learner's permit, you’re ready to move on to an intermediate license. This license allows you to drive on your own with a few limitations. This stage helps new drivers build experience and confidence before earning full driving privileges. Here’s everything you need to know about qualifying and applying for an intermediate license in Mississippi.

Eligibility Criteria

You’ll need to meet a few specific requirements to qualify for an intermediate license in Mississippi:

• You must be at least 16 years old to apply for an intermediate license.
• You need to have held a learner’s permit for at least six months without any serious traffic violations.
• During your time with a learner's permit, it’s expected that you’ve gained supervised driving experience and practice with an adult licensed driver.

Documents Required

• Current Learner’s Permit: Bring your valid learner’s permit as proof that you’ve completed the initial permit stage.
• Proof of Identity: A valid birth certificate, passport, or other government-issued ID.
• Proof of Social Security Number: Your Social Security card or a document showing your SSN.
• Proof of Residency: Utility bills, school records, or other official documents showing your Mississippi address.
• Parent or Guardian Consent: If you’re under 17, your parent or guardian will need to provide written consent for you to obtain an intermediate license.
• Immigration Documents (if applicable): Non-U.S. citizens should bring their valid immigration papers, passport, or permanent resident card. If you're an international student, you may need to present your I-94 and passport.

Validity

The Mississippi intermediate license is valid until you turn 17 and are eligible to apply for a full, unrestricted driver’s license. While holding an intermediate license, you’ll be subject to specific restrictions, like limited nighttime driving and passenger rules. These restrictions are intended to help you safely gain more driving experience before progressing to a full license.

Process

Here’s what you need to do to get your intermediate license in Mississippi:

1. Hold Your Learner's Permit

Before applying, you’ll need to have held your learner's permit for at least 12 months.

2. Visit a Driver's License Office

You’ll need to apply in person. You can find the nearest driver license office on the Mississippi DPS website.

3. Fill Out the Application

Complete the application form, which you can download online. If you’re under 18, make sure your parents sign it and get their signatures notarized. If they’re divorced, the parent with custody should sign.

4. Gather Required Documents

Bring the documents mentioned above when you go to the license office.

5. Pay the Application Fee

The fee for an intermediate license is $11, payable by cash, debit, or credit card (personal checks aren’t accepted).

6. Pass the Driving Skills Test

You’ll need to pass a road test to show your driving skills. Bring a licensed adult (age 21 or older) and a registered, insured vehicle that’s in good working condition. If you don’t pass, you’ll have to wait a week before trying again.

7. Receive Your Intermediate License

Once you pass the test and complete the process, you’ll get your intermediate license. Hold it for six months and reach at least age 16½ before moving up to a full, regular license.

Restrictions

Once you have your intermediate license in Mississippi, there are still a few rules to keep in mind.

1. Nighttime Driving

You’re not allowed to drive between 10:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m. on weekdays and 11:30 p.m. and 6:00 a.m. on weekends. This rule is to limit nighttime driving, which can be more challenging for new drivers.

2. Passenger Limitations

While holding an intermediate license, avoid driving with multiple young passengers. Having too many people in the car can be distracting and increase the risk of accidents.

3. Adult Supervision (If Necessary)

For certain conditions, like nighttime driving, you’ll need to be accompanied by a licensed adult driver (age 21 or older). They should sit in the front passenger seat to provide guidance.

Note: After six months with the intermediate license and reaching at least age 16½, you’ll be eligible to apply for your regular driver’s license!

Stage 3: How to Get an Adult Mississippi Driver’s License

Unlike permits or restricted licenses, an adult license comes with full driving privileges. An adult driver’s license in Mississippi is your official authorization to drive freely on the state’s roads and highways. It’s a critical step for anyone 18 or older who wants to operate a car without supervision legally. This license grants you the freedom to drive while adhering to the basic traffic rules. With it, you can drive to work, run errands, or take road trips across the state and beyond.

Eligibility Criteria

You’ll need to meet a few specific requirements to qualify for an adult driver’s license in Mississippi:

Age Requirement

If you’re 16½ or older, you can apply for a regular license after holding an intermediate license for at least 6 months.

If you’re 17 or older and haven’t previously held a permit or license, you can apply directly for a regular driver’s license without needing a learner’s permit.

Completion of the Driving Period

For drivers who hold an intermediate license, completing the six-month period with it is essential. This gives you time to practice driving under less restrictive conditions before moving to a regular license.

Documents Required

To apply for your regular Mississippi driver’s license, be sure to bring the following documents:

• Intermediate License: If you’re upgrading from an intermediate license, you’ll need to bring it along as proof that you’ve fulfilled the initial licensing stage.
• Proof of Identity: A valid birth certificate, passport, or other government-issued ID.
• Proof of Social Security Number: Your Social Security card or a document showing your SSN.
• Proof of Residency: Utility bills, school records, or other official documents showing your Mississippi address.
• Certificate of School Attendance: You need to have your school sign this form to prove you’re currently enrolled. The certificate is valid for 30 days, so make sure you submit it within that time. You need to have your school sign this form to prove you’re currently enrolled. The certificate is valid for 30 days, so make sure you submit it within that time.

Additional Notes

• Application Fee: Be prepared to pay the required application fee. The payment can be made with cash, debit, or credit (personal checks are not accepted).
• Driving Test: If you’re applying for a regular license without holding a learner’s or intermediate license first, you’ll likely need to complete a driving skills test.

Validity

Once issued, your regular Mississippi driver’s license is valid for up to 8 years.

Process

If you’re new to driving, start from Step 1.

If you have a learner’s permit, begin at Step 7.

If you hold an intermediate license and are at least 16.5, visit a driver's license office, pay the $9 fee, and get your regular license.

1. Fill Out the Application Form

Download it online or get it from any driver's license office.

2. Gather Required Documents

Put together and bring all the above-mentioned documents to the driver’s license office.

3. Apply in Person

Go to your nearest driver's license office. Find locations here.

4. Pay the License Fee

Fees are $24 for a 4-year license or $47 for an 8-year license. Payment options include cash, debit, or credit (no personal checks).

5. Pass the Vision Test

This checks your eyesight. If you need glasses or contacts, you’ll have to get a vision form (DE26) filled out by an eye specialist. You can get the form at the DPS office.

6. Take the Computerized Knowledge Test

This test covers Mississippi traffic laws and safe driving practices. Be sure to study with practice tests. If you fail, you can retake it the next business day. After three failed attempts, you must wait 30 days.

7. Pass the Driving Skills Test

You can take this test on the same day as your computerized test. Bring a licensed driver (21 or older), a licensed and insured vehicle that passes inspection, and proof of insurance.

Mississippi Knowledge Test: Everything You Need to Know

Getting ready for the Mississippi Written Test? Don’t worry—it’s not as intimidating as it sounds if you prepare well. This test checks your knowledge of Mississippi traffic laws, driving rules, and licensing requirements. Here’s everything you need to know to pass it!

What’s on the Test?

The written test includes 30 multiple-choice questions. You’ll need to answer at least 80% correctly (that’s 24 questions) to pass. Topics include:

• Mississippi traffic laws
• Safe driving practices
• Driver’s license requirements

The test can be taken on a computer, and there’s even an audio option if reading is a challenge for you.

How to Prepare

The best way to get ready is to:

1. Study the Mississippi Driver’s Manual: All test questions are based on this guide.
2. Practice with Mock Tests: Use online tools like free practice tests or study apps like DMV Genie. These are great for building confidence.
3. Take Your Time: Don’t rush through the material.

Test Day Tips

1. Arrive Early: Testing is walk-in only, but stations close at 5 p.m. Arrive at least 45 minutes earlier to ensure you’re processed in time.
2. Bring the Essentials: Ensure you have all required documents, including your identification and permit application.

If You Fail

No worries—mistakes happen! You can retake the test the next business day. However, if you fail three times, you’ll need to wait 30 days before trying again.

Now that you know what to expect, it’s time to hit the books and practice tests. You’ve got this!

Mississippi Road Test: What You Need to Know

The Mississippi Road Test is your chance to show you can handle real-world driving conditions safely and confidently. It's designed to assess your ability to control your vehicle, follow traffic laws, and respond to various road situations.

Scheduling and Test Day Basics

You can take the road test at a driver's license office, often on the same day as your written test, if you’re 17 or older. But keep in mind:

• Offices close at 5 p.m., so plan to arrive early.
• Road tests won’t be conducted in bad weather or if windshield wipers are necessary.

What to Bring

Make sure you show up with all the required items:

• Completed application (signed and notarized if you’re under 17)
• Learner’s permit (if under 17)
• School attendance form (if under 18)
• Social Security Number
• Certified birth certificate
• Two proofs of residency
• A licensed driver to accompany you
• A safe, insured vehicle with up-to-date registration
• Proof of insurance

If needed, you can bring an interpreter, but no other passengers are allowed in the vehicle during the test.

Vehicle Inspection

Before you start, the examiner will inspect your vehicle for:

• Functional lights
• Working brakes
• A reliable horn
• Valid registration and insurance

During the Test

The road test evaluates both your driving skills and your ability to follow instructions. You'll be asked to perform maneuvers like:

• Right and left turns
• Smooth stops
• Backing up
• Parallel parking
• Stopping and parking on a hill
• Turn-about maneuvers

Examiners will also observe how you:

• Use turn signals and driving lanes
• React to signs, signals, and other road users
• Maintain a safe distance and appropriate speed
• Display proper posture behind the wheel

Critical Mistakes to Avoid

You’ll fail automatically if you:

• Cause an accident
• Break traffic laws
• Drive recklessly or disobey instructions
• Accumulate too many smaller errors

After the Test

At the end, the examiner will discuss your performance and tell you if you passed. If you fail, don’t stress—you’ll need to wait one full week before trying again. Use the feedback to practice and improve.

How to Renew a Driver’s License in Mississippi

In Mississippi, you have three options to renew your driver’s license: online, at a self-service kiosk, or in person. Here’s a quick overview of each method.

Online Renewal

You’re eligible for online renewal if your last renewal was done in person, your information is still current, and you’re not upgrading to a REAL ID. Make sure you have a physical address, as the Mississippi DPS doesn’t send licenses to PO boxes.

Follow these steps to renew your Mississippi driver’s license online:

1. Visit the Mississippi DPS website.
2. Enter your name, date of birth, and license number.
3. Verify your details.
4. Pay with a credit or debit card. (Note: there’s a processing fee plus $1.50 for shipping and handling.)
5. You’ll get a receipt within 78 hours, and your physical license will arrive in the mail within a few weeks.

Kiosk Renewal

If you meet these requirements, you may be able to renew at a kiosk:

• You’re between 17 and 75 years old.
• Your license is still valid or expired by less than a year.
• Your information doesn’t need any changes.
• You have no unpaid tickets.
• You’re a U.S. citizen.
• You can pay with a debit or credit card.

Follow these steps to renew your Mississippi driver’s license at a kiosk:

1. Go to a driver’s license service location with a self-service kiosk.
2. Swipe your license and verify your details.
3. Take a new photo.
4. You’ll get a paper receipt as a temporary license. Your updated license will arrive by mail.

In-Person Renewal

In-person renewal is required if any of these apply:

• Your last renewal was online.
• You need to update your name, address, or other information.
• You’re upgrading to a REAL ID.
• You’re not a U.S. citizen.

Follow these steps to renew your Mississippi driver’s license in person:

1. Visit a Driver’s License location. Check the hours and consider making an appointment.
2. Bring these documents:
   • Your current driver’s license.
   • Proof of identity (if you’re not a U.S. citizen).
   • Proof of residency.
   • Payment (cash, credit, or debit – personal checks aren’t accepted).

3. Complete the application and provide your documents.
4. Take a vision test.
5. Pay the renewal fee.
6. You’ll get a temporary paper license. The new license will be mailed to your residential address in about a week.

To check the status, call (601) 987-1212 or (601) 987-1224 or email [email protected].

Note: If you’re a military member stationed outside Mississippi, you might also be able to renew by mail.

New Residents: Getting Your Mississippi Driver’s License

If you've recently moved to Mississippi and plan to make it your permanent home, you’ll need to transfer your current driver’s license within 60 days to drive in the state legally.

Here’s what you need to know about who qualifies as a Mississippi resident and what steps you’ll need to take.

Are You a Mississippi Resident?

You’re considered a Mississippi resident if you’ve moved here and intend to make the state your primary home, even if it’s just for the foreseeable future. This includes individuals who have moved for work, family, or other long-term purposes.

Temporary Residents: Exceptions to the License Transfer Requirement

Not everyone who lives in Mississippi needs to transfer their out-of-state license. You don’t need to convert your current driver’s license if:

1. College Students

If you’re from out of state and attending college in Mississippi, you can continue using your valid out-of-state license.

2. Military Members and Family

Active-duty members of the U.S. Armed Forces stationed in Mississippi, as well as their immediate family members, do not need to convert their out-of-state licenses.

3. Farm or Road Equipment Operators

If you’re only operating farm machinery, tractors, or similar equipment on Mississippi highways temporarily, there’s no need to convert your license.

What to do If You Have an Out-of-State License

Moving to Mississippi with an out-of-state license? Here’s how to get your Mississippi driver’s license:

1. Convert Your License Within 60 Days

You have 60 days from your move date to switch your out-of-state license to a Mississippi one.

2. Documentation Checklist

Bring the following with you:

• Social Security card (for U.S. citizens)
• Certified Birth Certificate
• Certificate of School Attendance if you’re under 18 (valid for 30 days)
• Two Proofs of Mississippi Residency (If under 21, you can use a parent’s documents, like a utility bill or bank statement)
• Valid immigration documents and passport for non-U.S. citizens.

3. Visit a Driver's License Office

Find the nearest driver's license location to submit your paperwork in person.

4. Pay the License Fee

The fee is $24 for a 4-year license or $47 for an 8-year license (payable by cash, debit, or credit).

5. Pass a Vision Test

A vision screening is required. If you need corrective lenses, a vision form from an eye specialist may be needed.

6. Take a Computerized Knowledge Test (If Needed)

If your out-of-state license expired more than 30 days ago, you’ll need to pass a knowledge test on Mississippi traffic laws.

7. Surrender Your Out-of-State License

If your current license is lost, you’ll need an Affidavit of Inability to Surrender with a notarized signature.

8. Smile for Your Photo

You’ll have your picture taken for your new license—so come prepared!

Your new Mississippi driver’s license should arrive by mail in about a week and will be valid for four years.

What to do If You Have a Foreign License

Welcome to Mississippi! If you’re relocating here from another country and want to get a Mississippi driver’s license, here’s a simple breakdown of what you’ll need to do:

1. Convert Your License

You’ll need to convert your foreign license to a Mississippi driver’s license.

2. Pass the Knowledge and Vision Exams

All applicants must complete a computerized knowledge test covering Mississippi traffic laws and pass a vision test. Be sure to prepare with practice questions on state rules!

3. Road Skills Test Requirement

• If you have a valid international driver’s permit along with your foreign license, you won’t need to take the road test.
• If you don’t have an international permit, you will need to take the road skills test to ensure you’re familiar with U.S. driving practices.

Once you pass these requirements, you’ll be ready for your Mississippi driver’s license!