Where to Get Your License in Meridian

In Meridian, you get your driver's license through the Mississippi Department of Public Safety, Driver License Bureau. The local office is located at 1409 Roebuck Drive, Meridian, MS 39301. This is the only place in Meridian where you can take your written test, road test, and pick up your license after approval.

The office is open Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., and closed on state holidays. You cannot renew or obtain a license online in Mississippi, so you must visit in person. If you cannot reach the Meridian office, you can also visit any other Driver License Bureau location across the state, though the Meridian office is your closest option.

Key Takeaways

  • The Meridian Driver License Bureau is at 1409 Roebuck Drive and handles written tests, road tests, and license issuance.
  • You must bring a birth certificate or passport, proof of Social Security number, and proof of Mississippi residency to your appointment.
  • The written test covers road signs, traffic laws, and safe driving; you must score at least 80 percent to pass.
  • The road test lasts about 20 minutes and tests basic vehicle control, turning, parking, and following traffic laws.
  • A standard Class D license costs $31.50 and is valid for four years; a REAL ID license costs $36.50 and is valid for eight years.

Documents You Need to Bring

Mississippi requires you to bring original documents or certified copies—photocopies alone will not work. You need proof of identity (a birth certificate, passport, or military ID), proof of your Social Security number (your Social Security card or a tax return), and proof that you live in Mississippi (a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days).

If you are under 18, you also need a signed consent form from a parent or legal guardian. Bring all documents with you on the day of your appointment; the staff will not process your process without them. If any document is not in English, bring a certified English translation as well.

The Written Test in Meridian

The written test at the Meridian office covers Mississippi traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You answer 30 multiple-choice questions on a computer, and you must score at least 80 percent (24 correct answers) to pass. The test takes about 15 to 20 minutes.

You can study using the free Mississippi Driver's Manual, available on the Department of Public Safety website or in print at the Meridian office. Many people also use online practice tests to prepare. If you fail, you can retake the test the same day or return another day; there is no waiting period between attempts, though you may have to pay a retest fee.

Scheduling and Taking Your Road Test

After you pass the written test, you schedule your road test at the same office. The road test typically happens within a few days to a few weeks, depending on how busy the Meridian office is. You must bring a vehicle that is registered, insured, and in safe working condition. The vehicle's registration and proof of insurance must be current.

The examiner will test your ability to start the vehicle, control steering and braking, turn corners, back up, and park. The test lasts about 20 minutes and takes place on local Meridian roads. You must follow all traffic laws during the test. If you fail, you can retake it, though you may need to wait a few days and pay a retest fee.

License Types and Costs in Mississippi

Mississippi offers two main license types for drivers 18 and older. A standard Class D license costs $31.50 and is valid for four years. A REAL ID license costs $36.50 and is valid for eight years. The REAL ID license meets federal requirements for boarding domestic flights and entering federal buildings; the standard license does not.

If you are 16 or 17, you receive a Graduated Driver License (GDL), which has restrictions on when and with whom you can drive. A GDL costs $31.50 and is valid until you turn 18, at which point you can exchange it for a standard or REAL ID license. Bring your GDL and the required documents to the Meridian office to upgrade.

What Happens After You Pass

Once you pass both the written and road tests, the Meridian office issues your license on the spot or within a few days. You receive a temporary paper license when ready, valid for 30 days while your plastic card is printed and mailed to your address. Keep the temporary license with you while you drive.

Your permanent license arrives by mail within two to three weeks. If it does not arrive, contact the Meridian office with your temporary license number. You can also renew your license by mail before it expires, though you must renew in person if you want to change your address or photograph.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make an appointment at the Meridian office, or is it first-come, first-served?

The Meridian Driver License Bureau accepts walk-ins, but you can also call ahead to ask about wait times. Some locations in Mississippi now offer online appointment scheduling through the Department of Public Safety website. Call the Meridian office at (601) 483-9000 to confirm their current process.

What if I fail the road test in Meridian?

You can retake the road test, usually within a few days. You must pay a retest fee (typically $10 to $15, though this varies). Bring the same vehicle and documents, and the examiner will test you again on local roads.

Do I need a REAL ID license to drive in Mississippi?

No. A standard Class D license is legal for driving in Mississippi. You need a REAL ID only if you plan to board a domestic flight or enter a federal building. A standard license works for all other purposes, including driving across state lines.

How long does the whole process take from start to finish?

If you pass both tests on your first try, you can receive your temporary license the same day. Your permanent card arrives by mail in two to three weeks. If you need to retake either test, add a few days to a week to your timeline.

What if I move after I get my license?

You must update your address with the Mississippi Department of Public Safety within 30 days of moving. Visit the Meridian office in person with your current license and proof of your new address. There is no fee to update your address.