Renew Your Mississippi Driver's License Online, by Mail, or In Person

You can renew your Mississippi driver's license without visiting a driver's license office if you meet certain conditions. The state offers three paths: online renewal (fastest), mail renewal, or in-person renewal at a Driver's License Issuance Station. Which one you use depends on whether your license is still valid, how much time you have, and whether you need to update your photo or address.

Your license is valid for four years from the date it was issued. Mississippi sends renewal notices about 60 days before expiration, but you do not have to wait for the notice to start the process. You can renew up to one year before your license expires.

Key Takeaways

  • Online renewal through the Mississippi Department of Public Safety website takes about 10 minutes and costs $24 if your license is not expired and you do not need a new photo.
  • Mail renewal takes two to three weeks and requires you to send your current license, a completed process form, and payment to the state office in Jackson.
  • In-person renewal at any Driver's License Issuance Station lets you update your photo, address, or other information on the same day.
  • If your license has been expired for more than one year, you must renew in person and may need to retake the written test.
  • You will need your Social Security number, current address, and a valid payment method (credit card, debit card, or e-check) for online or mail renewal.

Online Renewal: The Fastest Option

Online renewal is available through the Mississippi Department of Public Safety website if your license is currently valid (not expired) and you do not need to change your photo. The process takes about 10 minutes. You will need your driver's license number, Social Security number, date of birth, and a credit card or debit card to pay the $24 renewal fee.

After you complete the online form and payment, your new license will be mailed to the address on file. Delivery typically takes 7 to 10 business days. You can continue to drive on your current license until the new one arrives. If you need to update your address, photo, or other information, you must renew in person instead.

Mail Renewal: Two to Three Weeks

Mail renewal works if your license is valid and you do not need a new photo. You will need to complete Form 78-R (process for Renewal of Driver's License) and mail it along with your current license and a check or money order for $24 to the Mississippi Department of Public Safety in Jackson.

The mailing address is:

Mississippi Department of Public Safety Driver's License Issuance Bureau P.O. Box 958 Jackson, MS 39205

Processing takes two to three weeks from the date the office receives your materials. Your new license will be mailed to the address on your process. During this time, you can drive on your current license. If you do not receive your new license within four weeks, contact the Driver's License Issuance Bureau at 601-987-1500.

In-Person Renewal at a Driver's License Office

Visit any Driver's License Issuance Station if you want to update your photo, change your address, correct information on your license, or if your license has expired. You will need to bring your current license, proof of Social Security number (Social Security card, W-2, or 1099 form), and proof of your current address (utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days).

Bring a payment method: cash, check, debit card, or credit card. The renewal fee is $24. Processing is usually same-day or within a few hours. You will receive a temporary paper license valid for 30 days while your new plastic license is mailed to you.

To find the Driver's License Issuance Station nearest you, visit the Mississippi Department of Public Safety website or call 601-987-1500. Many offices accept walk-ins, but some require appointments. Calling ahead can save you a trip.

What to Do If Your License Has Expired

If your license expired more than one year ago, you cannot renew online or by mail. You must go to a Driver's License Issuance Station in person. You will need to bring the same documents as a standard in-person renewal: your expired license, proof of Social Security number, and proof of current address.

Depending on how long your license has been expired, you may be required to retake the written knowledge test. The office will tell you whether this applies to you when you arrive. If you pass the test, your new license will be issued the same day. If your license has been expired for more than three years, you may also need to pass a vision test.

Costs and Payment Methods

The renewal fee is $24 for a four-year license, regardless of which renewal method you choose. Online and mail renewal accept credit cards, debit cards, or e-checks. In-person renewal accepts cash, check, debit card, or credit card. There are no additional fees for address changes or corrections made during renewal.

If you are renewing in person and need a new photo because your current one is damaged or outdated, the $24 fee covers both the renewal and the new photo. No separate photo fee applies.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my license before it expires?

Yes. You can renew up to one year before your license expires. This is useful if you are traveling or want to avoid the rush near the expiration date. The new license will be valid for four years from the date it is issued.

What if I moved and need to update my address?

If you renewed online or by mail, your address will not change. You must renew in person at a Driver's License Issuance Station to update your address on your license. Bring proof of your new address dated within the last 60 days, such as a utility bill or lease.

How long does it take to get my new license in the mail?

Online and mail renewals take 7 to 10 business days for delivery after processing is complete. Mail renewal processing itself takes two to three weeks. In-person renewal gives you a temporary paper license when ready and mails your plastic license within 7 to 10 days.

What if I lost my current license?

You cannot renew by mail or online if you do not have your current license. You must go to a Driver's License Issuance Station in person and request a replacement license. Bring proof of identity, Social Security number, and current address. The fee is $24.

Can I renew my license if I have unpaid traffic tickets?

Mississippi does not automatically suspend licenses for unpaid traffic fines during the renewal process, but you should contact the court or the Mississippi Department of Public Safety to confirm your status before renewing. Some courts may place a hold on your renewal if fines are outstanding.