Where to Get Your Driver License in Hattiesburg

The Mississippi Department of Public Safety Driver License Bureau office in Hattiesburg is located at 1601 Hardy Street, Hattiesburg, MS 39401. This is the only full-service location in Hattiesburg where you can take your written test, road test, and receive your license on the same day if you pass both.

The office is open Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., and closed on state holidays. You cannot walk in without an appointment — you must schedule one in advance through the Mississippi DMV website or by calling the Hattiesburg office directly at (601) 582-2055. Wait times vary by season, but scheduling ahead prevents long delays.

If you cannot reach the Hattiesburg office by phone, you can also contact the main Mississippi DMV customer service line at 1-888-696-4357 to book an appointment or ask questions about what documents you need to bring.

Key Takeaways

  • The Hattiesburg DMV office is at 1601 Hardy Street and requires an appointment — you cannot walk in without one.
  • You must bring your Social Security card, proof of residency, and proof of identity; the exact documents depend on whether you are a new driver or renewing.
  • The written test covers road signs, traffic laws, and safe driving; you can study using the official Mississippi Driver Manual available free online.
  • The road test lasts about 20 minutes and tests basic vehicle control, turning, parking, and following traffic laws in real driving conditions.
  • Fees vary by license type and age; a standard five-year license costs less than a REAL ID-compliant license, which requires extra documents.

Documents You Need Before Your Appointment

Mississippi requires three categories of documents: proof of identity, proof of Social Security number, and proof of residency. You must bring originals or certified copies — photocopies alone will not work.

For proof of identity, bring a passport, certified birth certificate, or military ID. For proof of Social Security number, bring your Social Security card or a W-2 form from your employer. For proof of residency, bring a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days and showing your current address.

If you are under 18, your parent or guardian must be present at your appointment and bring their own ID. If you are renewing an expired license, bring the expired license itself — it counts as proof of identity and speeds up the process.

The Written Test: What to Study

The written test has 30 multiple-choice questions covering road signs, traffic laws, right-of-way rules, and safe driving practices. You must answer at least 24 questions correctly to pass. The test is offered in English and Spanish.

Study using the official Mississippi Driver Manual, available free as a PDF on the Mississippi DMV website. The manual covers everything the test asks about and is the only study material you need. You can also take practice tests on the DMV website to see which topics need more review.

The test is taken on a computer at the DMV office during your appointment. You will have time to review your answers before submitting. If you fail, you can schedule another appointment to retake it, but you must wait at least one day before trying again.

The Road Test: What the Examiner Checks

The road test lasts about 20 minutes and takes place on public roads near the Hattiesburg DMV office. The examiner will ask you to perform basic driving tasks: starting the vehicle, turning, parking, stopping at signs, and following traffic laws. You will drive in both residential and busier areas.

Bring the vehicle you will use for the test — it must be registered, insured, and in safe working condition. The examiner will check that the brakes, lights, wipers, and horn work before you drive. Wear comfortable shoes and avoid distracting clothing or accessories.

Common reasons people fail the road test include rolling through stop signs, improper lane changes, hitting the curb while parking, and not checking mirrors and blind spots. If you fail, you can schedule another appointment, but you must wait at least one day before retaking it.

License Types and Fees in Mississippi

Mississippi offers several license types, each with different costs and validity periods. A standard driver license is valid for five years and costs $24. A REAL ID-compliant license is valid for five years and costs $36; it meets federal requirements for boarding domestic flights and entering federal buildings.

If you are under 18, you will receive a learner's permit first, which allows you to drive only with a licensed adult in the front seat. After holding the permit for six months and passing the road test, you can upgrade to a full license. Learner's permits cost $12 and are valid for one year.

Fees are paid at the time of your appointment. Mississippi accepts cash, debit cards, and credit cards. If you need a replacement license due to loss or damage, the fee is the same as a new license.

What Happens After You Pass Both Tests

If you pass the written and road tests on the same day, you will receive a temporary paper license at the Hattiesburg office. This temporary license is valid for 45 days and allows you to drive while your permanent license is being printed and mailed.

Your permanent license will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days. The address on your license will be the one you provided at your appointment, so make sure it is correct before you leave the office. If you move before your license arrives, contact the DMV to update your address.

If you fail either test, you will be told when ready and can schedule your next attempt. You do not need to repeat the test you passed — only the one you failed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take the written test without scheduling an appointment?

No. The Hattiesburg DMV office requires all appointments to be scheduled in advance through the website or by phone. Walk-ins are not accepted. Scheduling ahead also lets you choose a time that works for your schedule.

What if I fail the road test — how soon can I retake it?

You must wait at least one day before scheduling another road test appointment. There is no limit on how many times you can retake it, but each attempt requires a new appointment and the road test fee is included in your license fee.

Do I need a REAL ID license or can I get a standard license?

A standard license is cheaper and works for driving. A REAL ID license is required only if you plan to board a domestic flight or enter a federal building after May 2025. If you are unsure, a standard license is the simpler choice and you can upgrade later.

What if I move after I get my license?

Contact the Hattiesburg DMV office or use the online address change service on the Mississippi DMV website. You do not need a new license — just update your address in the system. Your current license remains valid.

Can I take the written test in a language other than English?

Yes. The written test is offered in Spanish at the Hattiesburg office. Tell the staff when you schedule your appointment which language you need, and they will have the test ready for you.