Replacement License Fees in Mississippi

A replacement driver's license in Mississippi costs $24.00 for a standard four-year license. This is the fee you pay to the Mississippi Department of Public Safety when you need to replace a lost, stolen, or damaged license. The fee covers the cost of producing the new card and updating the state's records.

If your license has expired and you need to renew it at the same time you're replacing it, you'll pay the renewal fee instead, which is also $24.00 for a four-year license. You do not pay both fees together — the DMV charges whichever applies to your situation.

Payment is cash, check, or money order only at most Mississippi DMV locations. Some offices may accept debit or credit cards, but this varies by location. Call ahead to confirm what your local office accepts before you go.

Key Takeaways

  • A replacement license costs $24.00 and is valid for four years from the date of issue.
  • You must visit a Mississippi DMV office in person with a valid form of identification and proof of residency.
  • Processing time is typically the same day if you arrive early, though some offices may take longer during peak hours.
  • If your license was stolen, you may need to file a police report or provide a statement to the DMV.
  • Temporary licenses are not issued; you receive your permanent replacement card when you complete your transaction.

What Documents You Need to Bring

You must bring a valid form of identification and proof of your current Mississippi address. A valid ID can be a passport, military ID, or another state's driver's license. Proof of residency can be a utility bill, lease agreement, bank statement, or government mail dated within the last 60 days.

If your license was stolen, bring a police report or a written statement describing the theft. The DMV may ask you to sign an affidavit stating that your license was lost or stolen rather than requesting a report, depending on the circumstances and your local office's procedures.

Bring your Social Security card or a document showing your Social Security number. If you do not have your card, a W-2, tax return, or bank statement with your number will work.

Where to Go and How Long It Takes

Visit any Mississippi DMV Driver License Issuance Station. You can find the location nearest you on the Mississippi Department of Public Safety website. Most offices are open Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., though some have limited weekend hours.

Arrive early in the day if possible. Most people receive their replacement license the same day they explore, but wait times vary. During lunch hours and late afternoon, offices are busier. If you arrive in the first hour after opening, you are more likely to walk out with your new license within 30 minutes to an hour.

You cannot renew or replace a license by mail or online in Mississippi. You must appear in person at a DMV office.

Differences Between Replacement and Renewal

A replacement is what you get when your current license is lost, stolen, or damaged but has not expired yet. A renewal is what you get when your license is about to expire or has already expired. Both cost $24.00 in Mississippi.

If your license expired more than two years ago, you may be required to retake the written test and vision test, not just pay the fee and receive a new card. Check with your local DMV office before you go if your license has been expired for a long time.

If you need to change your name, address, or other information on your license at the same time, you still pay only the replacement or renewal fee — there is no additional charge for corrections.

What Happens If You Lose Your License Again

Each replacement costs $24.00. There is no limit to how many times you can replace a license, but the DMV may ask questions if you request multiple replacements in a short period. If you lose your license frequently, consider keeping a photocopy of it in a separate location or storing a photo of it on your phone.

If your license is stolen repeatedly, the DMV may ask you to file a police report each time. This protects you from fraud and creates a record in case someone uses your stolen license information.

License Validity and Expiration

Your replacement license is valid for four years from the date it is issued. The expiration date is printed on the front of your card. You can renew your license up to six months before it expires, which means you can start the renewal process when you have about six months left on your current license.

Driving with an expired license is illegal in Mississippi. If you are stopped by law enforcement, you can be cited. Plan to renew before the expiration date shown on your card.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a replacement license if my current one is suspended or revoked?

No. You cannot replace a suspended or revoked license. You must first resolve the suspension or revocation with the Mississippi DMV. This may involve paying fines, completing a driver improvement course, or meeting other requirements depending on why your license was suspended or revoked.

What if I moved out of state but still have a Mississippi license?

You should obtain a driver's license from your new state. If you still need a Mississippi replacement for some reason, you can request one by mail through the Mississippi DMV, though this is uncommon. Contact the DMV directly to ask about out-of-state replacement options.

Do I need an appointment to get a replacement license?

Most Mississippi DMV offices operate on a first-come, first-served basis and do not require appointments. However, some locations may offer appointment scheduling. Call your local office to ask whether appointments are available and whether they are recommended during busy times.

What if I don't have a Social Security card?

Bring another document that shows your Social Security number, such as a W-2 form, tax return, or bank statement. If you do not have your number available, contact the Social Security Administration before you visit the DMV to request a replacement card or a letter showing your number.

Can I get a temporary license while I wait for my replacement?

No. Mississippi does not issue temporary licenses. You receive your permanent replacement card when you complete your transaction at the DMV office. If you need to drive before your appointment, arrange transportation or reschedule your visit for a time when you can wait for processing.