Renewing Your Mississippi Driver's License

In Mississippi, you can renew your driver's license by mail, online, or in person at a Driver Services office. The method you choose depends on whether your license is still valid, how much time you have before expiration, and whether you need a new photo. Most people renew by mail or online and receive their new license within two to three weeks.

Your Mississippi driver's license is valid for four years from the date of issue. The expiration date is printed on the front of your card. You can begin the renewal process up to six months before your license expires, which gives you time to complete it without rushing.

Key Takeaways

  • Mississippi allows mail, online, and in-person renewal, and you can start the process up to six months before your license expires.
  • Mail and online renewal cost $24 and do not require a new photo unless your license is damaged or you want to update your image.
  • In-person renewal at a Driver Services office takes about 30 minutes and is required if your license is suspended, revoked, or if you need vision screening.
  • You will need your current valid license, proof of residency, and proof of Social Security number for any renewal method.
  • Your new license will arrive by mail within two to three weeks if you renew online or by mail.

Renewing by Mail in Mississippi

Mail renewal is the slowest method but requires no visit to an office. You will need to complete the process for Driver License or Instruction Permit (Form 78-010), which you can read from the Mississippi Department of Public Safety website or request by phone. Include your current valid license, a check or money order for $24 payable to the Mississippi Department of Public Safety, and proof of your Social Security number (such as a Social Security card, W-2, or tax return).

Mail your completed form and documents to the address listed on the form. Processing takes two to three weeks after the office receives your envelope. You will not receive a confirmation that your process arrived, so keep a copy of everything you send. Your new license will arrive by mail at the address on file with the state.

Renewing Online Through the Mississippi Portal

Online renewal is the fastest method if your license is valid and you do not need a new photo. Visit the Mississippi Department of Public Safety website and select the online renewal option. You will need your current license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and a valid payment method (debit or credit card). The fee is $24.

The online system will verify your information against state records. If everything matches, you will receive a confirmation number when ready. Your new license will be mailed to your address on file within two to three weeks. Online renewal is not available if your license is suspended, revoked, or expired for more than one year.

Renewing in Person at a Driver Services Office

In-person renewal is required if your license is suspended or revoked, if you need vision screening, or if you want a new photo. Visit any Driver Services office in Mississippi with your current valid license, proof of residency (such as a utility bill, lease, or bank statement), and proof of your Social Security number. Bring payment of $24 in cash, check, or card.

Processing at an office usually takes 30 minutes to one hour. You will have your photo taken and receive a temporary license to use when ready. Your permanent license will arrive by mail within two to three weeks. Some offices accept walk-ins, but many now require an appointment. Check the Mississippi Department of Public Safety website to find the office nearest you and to schedule a time slot if needed.

Documents You Need for Any Renewal Method

Regardless of which method you choose, you must have three things: your current valid driver's license, proof of your Social Security number, and proof of residency if renewing in person. Your current license serves as your identity document. Proof of Social Security number can be your Social Security card, a W-2 form, a tax return, or a 1099 form. Proof of residency must show your name and current address and can be a utility bill, lease agreement, bank statement, or government mail.

If your name has changed since your last license was issued, you will need to provide legal documentation of the change, such as a marriage certificate or court order. If your address has changed, update it through the online system before you renew, or bring proof of your new address to an office.

What Happens If Your License Has Expired

If your license expired less than one year ago, you can renew by mail or online using the same process. If your license expired more than one year ago, you must renew in person at a Driver Services office. The office will require vision screening and may require a written test if the state determines your knowledge is outdated.

If your license has been expired for more than five years, you may be required to take the full written and road tests as if you were a new driver. Contact the Mississippi Department of Public Safety to confirm what tests you will need before you visit an office.

Fees and Payment Methods

Renewal costs $24 in Mississippi, regardless of the method you choose. If you renew by mail, you must pay by check or money order. If you renew online, you can pay by debit or credit card. If you renew in person, you can pay in cash, check, or card. There are no additional fees for a new photo or address change.

If you are renewing a commercial driver's license (CDL), the fee is higher and the process is more complex. CDL renewal requires in-person renewal and may require medical certification. Contact a Driver Services office for CDL renewal details.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my license if it is suspended or revoked?

No. You must resolve the suspension or revocation before you can renew. Contact the Mississippi Department of Public Safety to find out why your license is suspended or revoked and what steps you need to take to restore it. Once it is restored, you can renew through any method.

What if I move out of Mississippi before my license expires?

You should obtain a driver's license from your new state as soon as you establish residency there. You do not need to renew your Mississippi license if you no longer live in the state. Your new state's license will replace it.

How long does it take to receive my renewed license by mail?

Processing takes two to three weeks after the Mississippi Department of Public Safety receives your process. Mail delivery time is not included in this estimate, so allow an additional few days for the license to arrive at your home. If you need your license sooner, renew in person at a Driver Services office to receive a temporary license when ready.

Do I need a new photo when I renew?

No. Mail and online renewal use your existing photo. You only need a new photo if you renew in person, if your current photo is damaged or unclear, or if you request one. If you want a new photo but are renewing by mail or online, you must renew in person instead.

What if my address changed since my last license?

Update your address through the online renewal system before you submit your process, or bring proof of your new address to a Driver Services office. Your new license will be mailed to the updated address on file.