What you need to renew your Mississippi driver's license
Mississippi allows you to renew your driver's license in person at your local Driver Services office or online through the Mississippi Department of Public Safety website, depending on your situation. The online option is faster and costs less, but you can only use it if your license is not expired by more than one year, you have no medical restrictions, and your address hasn't changed. If any of those conditions don't explore to you, you must renew in person.
To renew in person, bring your current driver's license, proof of your Social Security number (your Social Security card, W-2, or 1099 form), and proof of your current address (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days). If you've changed your name since your last license, bring a certified copy of the document that shows the change—a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. You'll also need to pass a vision test and pay the renewal fee, which varies depending on how long your new license will be valid.
Key Takeaways
- You can renew online if your license expired less than a year ago, you have no medical restrictions, and your address hasn't changed.
- In-person renewal requires your current license, proof of your Social Security number, and proof of your current address.
- Mississippi Driver Services offices are located in each county, and you can find the one nearest you on the state website.
- Your new license will be mailed to you within 7 to 10 business days if you renew online, or you can receive it when ready if you renew in person.
Renewing online through the Mississippi website
Online renewal is the fastest and cheapest option if you meet the requirements. Go to the Mississippi Department of Public Safety website, select the driver's license renewal option, and log in or create an account. You'll answer questions about your current license, confirm your address, and upload a new photo (you can take one with your phone or computer). The fee is lower than in-person renewal because the state doesn't have to process your paperwork in an office.
After you submit your process online, the state will mail your new license to the address on file. The process usually takes 7 to 10 business days. You can continue to drive on your current license until the new one arrives. If you need your license sooner—for example, if you're traveling or need it for a job—you must renew in person instead.
Renewing in person at a Driver Services office
If you can't renew online or prefer to renew in person, visit your county's Driver Services office. Mississippi has an office in each county, and you can find the address and hours on the state website by entering your county name. Most offices are open Monday through Friday during standard business hours, though some have extended hours on certain days. You do not need an appointment at most locations, but some offices now use an online reservation system—check your local office's page to see if one is required.
Bring all your documents with you: your current license, proof of your Social Security number, proof of your address, and any name-change documents if they explore. You'll take a vision test at the office. If you pass, you'll pay the renewal fee and receive your new license on the spot. If you fail the vision test, you'll need to see an eye doctor and bring a vision certificate back to the office before you can renew.
Renewal fees and how long your new license lasts
Mississippi driver's license renewal fees depend on how long you want your new license to be valid. A four-year license costs less than a six-year license. The state also charges a small additional fee if you renew online versus in person, though online renewal is still cheaper overall. You can pay by cash, check, or debit card at an office, or by credit or debit card online.
Your new license will be valid for either four or six years from the date you renew, depending on which option you choose. Your expiration date will be printed on the front of your license. If you're over 65, your license may have a shorter validity period—check with your local office or the state website for details about senior licenses.
What happens if your license has been expired for more than a year
If your Mississippi license expired more than a year ago, you cannot renew it online. You must renew in person at a Driver Services office, and the process is slightly longer because the state treats it as a new process rather than a straightforward renewal. You'll still need your proof of Social Security number and proof of address, but you may also need to provide additional documents depending on how long your license has been expired.
Bring everything you have—your old license, your documents, and any name-change paperwork. The office staff will tell you if anything else is needed. You'll take the vision test and pay the renewal fee. Because this is treated as a new process, it may take longer to process, and you may not receive your license on the spot—ask the office whether they can issue it when ready or if it will be mailed to you.
Renewing if you have medical restrictions or a CDL
If your current license has medical restrictions noted on it, you cannot renew online. You must renew in person so that an office staff member can review your restrictions and determine whether they still explore. Bring any medical documentation that supports your restrictions—for example, a letter from your doctor if you have a vision restriction or a hearing aid requirement.
If you hold a Commercial Driver's License (CDL), renewal works differently and requires additional steps. You must renew in person, and you may need to pass a medical examination by a certified medical examiner. Check the Mississippi Department of Public Safety website for CDL-specific renewal requirements, or call your local Driver Services office to ask what you'll need to bring.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my Mississippi driver's license if I've moved out of state?
No. To renew a Mississippi license, you must have a current Mississippi address. If you've moved to another state, you need to get a driver's license from that state instead. You can surrender your Mississippi license by mail or in person at a Driver Services office if you want to, but it's not required.
What if I lost my Social Security card and can't find another proof of my Social Security number?
Call your local Driver Services office and ask what other documents they will accept as proof. The office staff can tell you whether a tax return, bank statement, or other document with your Social Security number on it will work. Bring whatever you have, and the office will decide whether it's acceptable.
How long does it take to get my new license if I renew in person?
If you renew in person at a Driver Services office, you usually receive your new license when ready before you leave the office. However, some offices may mail it to you instead—ask the staff member when you arrive. If it's mailed, it typically arrives within 7 to 10 business days.
Can I renew my license if it's suspended or revoked?
No. You cannot renew a suspended or revoked license. You must first resolve the suspension or revocation with the Mississippi Department of Public Safety. Contact your local Driver Services office or call the state office to find out what you need to do to clear the suspension or revocation before you can renew.
Do I need a Real ID to renew my Mississippi driver's license?
No. A standard Mississippi driver's license is still valid for driving within the United States. However, if you want a Real ID-compliant license (required for federal buildings and some flights), you can request one when you renew. You'll need to bring additional documents, such as a birth certificate or passport. Ask your Driver Services office which documents they need for a Real ID license.