Where to Go for Your Driver's License in Walnut Grove

Walnut Grove is a small town in Leake County, Mississippi, and does not have its own DMV office. To get a driver's license, you must visit the Leake County DMV office in Carthage, which is about 12 miles away. Carthage is the county seat and handles all license services for the area.

The Carthage DMV office is located at 410 East Main Street, Carthage, MS 39051. This is the only full-service DMV location in Leake County, so all driver's license applications, renewals, and replacements go through this office. You cannot complete these transactions online or by mail in Mississippi, so an in-person visit is required.

The office is open Monday through Friday during standard business hours. Hours vary by day, so call ahead at the Leake County DMV office before you go. Traffic is typically lighter on Tuesday and Wednesday mornings, which can mean shorter wait times.

Key Takeaways

  • The Leake County DMV office in Carthage is the only place to get a driver's license if you live in Walnut Grove.
  • You must bring a birth certificate or passport, proof of Social Security number, and proof of residence to your appointment.
  • Mississippi charges $24.50 for a four-year driver's license and $36.75 for an eight-year license for adults.
  • You will take a written test, vision test, and driving test on the same day or at a scheduled follow-up appointment.
  • Bring your current out-of-state license if you are moving to Mississippi, as it can speed up the process.

Documents You Need to Bring

Mississippi requires specific documents before you can test for a driver's license. Bring an original or certified copy of your birth certificate or a valid U.S. passport. A photocopy is not acceptable. If you do not have either, you can use a Consular Report of Birth Abroad or a Certificate of Naturalization.

You also need proof of your Social Security number. This can be your Social Security card itself, a W-2 form, a 1099 form, or a pay stub with your full Social Security number on it. A tax return also works. Do not bring a document that shows only the last four digits.

Bring proof of residence in Mississippi. This must be a document dated within the last 60 days showing your name and current address. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement. A driver's license from another state does not count as proof of residence, even if you have updated your address with that state.

If you are under 18, bring a parent or legal guardian with you. They must sign your process and provide their own identification. If you are renewing an out-of-state license, bring that license with you as well.

The Testing Process and Timeline

When you arrive at the Carthage DMV office, you will take a written knowledge test first. This covers traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You must score at least 80 percent to pass. If you fail, you can retake the test the same day or return another day at no extra charge.

After passing the written test, you will take a vision screening. The DMV checks your eyesight to make sure you can see well enough to drive safely. If you wear glasses or contacts, bring them with you. If you fail the vision test, you may be required to get a statement from an eye doctor before you can proceed.

The driving test may happen the same day or be scheduled for a later appointment, depending on how busy the office is. The test lasts about 15 to 20 minutes and covers basic vehicle control, turning, parking, and following traffic laws. You must use your own vehicle or a vehicle provided by someone who is with you. The vehicle must be registered, insured, and in safe working condition.

From the time you first visit the office to the time you receive your license in the mail typically takes two to four weeks. Your temporary paper license is valid when ready after you pass all tests, so you can drive legally while you wait for the plastic card to arrive.

Fees and Payment Methods

Mississippi driver's licenses are not free. A four-year license costs $24.50 and an eight-year license costs $36.75. These are the standard fees for adult drivers. Drivers under 21 pay different fees and receive licenses that expire sooner.

The Carthage DMV office accepts cash and check. Some offices also accept debit or credit cards, but call ahead to confirm what payment methods are available. Bring exact change or a check made out to the Mississippi Department of Public Safety if you want to avoid delays.

If you are renewing a license that has expired, you pay the same fee as a new license. If you are replacing a lost or damaged license, the replacement fee is $10.00. Duplicate licenses (getting a second copy of your current valid license) also cost $10.00.

Special Situations: Out-of-State Moves and License Transfers

If you are moving to Mississippi from another state and already have a valid driver's license, bring it with you to the Carthage office. Mississippi allows you to transfer your out-of-state license without retaking the written test, though you may still need to pass a vision test and driving test depending on your age and the state you are coming from.

Drivers under 21 who move to Mississippi must take the full written, vision, and driving test regardless of whether they hold an out-of-state license. Adult drivers (21 and older) with a valid out-of-state license may be waived from the written test but should expect to take the vision and driving tests.

If your out-of-state license is expired, you will be treated as a new applicant and must take all three tests. Bring the expired license anyway, as it helps the DMV verify your driving history and may reduce the number of documents you need to provide.

What to Expect on Test Day

Arrive at the Carthage DMV office at least 15 minutes before your scheduled appointment. Bring all required documents in a folder or envelope so they do not get separated. The office can get crowded, especially on Mondays and Fridays, so arriving early helps you stay on schedule.

Wear comfortable clothing and shoes you can drive in safely. Avoid wearing sunglasses or hats during the vision test or photo. The DMV will take your photo for the license, so dress as you normally would.

If you fail any test, ask the staff when you can retake it. You do not have to pay again to retake a failed test on the same day. If you fail the driving test, you typically must wait at least one business day before retesting, though some offices allow same-day retakes depending on staffing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take the written test online or at home?

No. Mississippi requires all driver's license tests to be taken in person at a DMV office. You cannot take the written, vision, or driving test remotely or by mail. You must visit the Carthage office to complete all testing.

What if I fail the driving test?

You can retake the driving test, usually within one to three business days. There is no extra fee to retake a failed test. Ask the DMV staff when the next available appointment is before you leave the office.

Do I need an appointment or can I just walk in?

Mississippi DMV offices accept both walk-ins and appointments. Calling ahead to schedule an appointment can reduce your wait time, but it is not required. Walk-ins are served on a first-come, first-served basis.

How long is a Mississippi driver's license valid?

A four-year license is valid for four years from the date of issue. An eight-year license is valid for eight years. Licenses for drivers under 21 expire sooner. Check your license card for the exact expiration date.

What if I lose my license after I get it?

Report the loss to the Carthage DMV office and request a duplicate. The replacement fee is $10.00. Bring your birth certificate or passport and proof of residence again. You will receive a new plastic card in the mail within two to four weeks.