The Cleveland Driver's License Office Location and Hours

The Mississippi Department of Public Safety issues driver's licenses at a single office in Cleveland, located at 316 East Sunflower Road, Cleveland, MS 38732. This is the office that serves Cleveland and the surrounding area in Bolivar County.

The office is open Monday through Friday. Hours are typically 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., though you should call ahead to confirm current hours before you go, as they can change seasonally or for holidays. The phone number for the Cleveland office is (662) 843-2461.

This office handles both written tests and road tests, so you can complete your learner's permit test and your driving test at the same location. However, not all services are available every day — some offices rotate which days they conduct road tests. Calling first saves you a wasted trip.

Key Takeaways

  • The Cleveland driver's license office is at 316 East Sunflower Road and handles both written and road tests for the area.
  • Office hours are Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., but you should call (662) 843-2461 to confirm before visiting.
  • Road tests may not be offered every day, so calling ahead tells you whether your test date is available.
  • You will need to bring your Social Security card, proof of residency, and any required documents for your license type when you visit.

What to Bring When You Visit

The Cleveland office requires specific documents before you can test or renew. Bring your Social Security card (the original card, not a copy), a valid form of photo identification (such as a passport or state ID), and proof of residency in Mississippi. Proof of residency can be a utility bill, lease agreement, or bank statement with your current address.

If you are under 18, you will also need a parent or guardian present with their own ID. If you are explore for a commercial driver's license (CDL), bring your current non-commercial license and any medical certificates required for your vehicle class.

Bring the exact fee in cash or be prepared to pay by card — policies vary by office. Call ahead to ask what payment methods the Cleveland office accepts.

Written Test and Road Test at the Cleveland Office

If you are testing for your learner's permit, you will take the written test at the Cleveland office. The test covers road signs, traffic laws, and safe driving practices specific to Mississippi. You have 30 minutes to complete it, and you must answer at least 24 of 30 questions correctly to pass.

Road tests are also conducted at the Cleveland office, but availability varies. The examiner will test your ability to start the vehicle, control steering and braking, follow traffic signals, and handle turns and parking. The test takes about 15 to 20 minutes. Because road test slots fill up, you may need to schedule your test in advance — ask when you call whether appointments are required or if it is first-come, first-served.

Parking and Accessibility at the Cleveland Location

The Cleveland office has parking available on-site. If you have mobility concerns or need accessible facilities, call ahead to confirm what accommodations are available. The office staff can tell you where to park and which entrance to use.

Plan to arrive early, especially if you are taking a road test. You will need time to check in, review any paperwork, and prepare. Arriving 15 minutes before your scheduled time is standard practice.

When the Cleveland Office Is Closed

The Cleveland office is closed on weekends and state holidays. If you need a license and the Cleveland office is closed, the nearest alternative is usually the Jackson Driver's License office or another location in a nearby county. However, you may be able to renew your license by mail if you are renewing a non-commercial license and meet certain requirements — call the Cleveland office to ask whether mail renewal is an option for you.

If you are moving out of Cleveland or Bolivar County, you can visit any Mississippi driver's license office to test or renew. The process is the same regardless of which office you use.

Preparing for Your Visit

Before you go to the Cleveland office, review the written test study guide on the Mississippi Department of Public Safety website. This guide covers all the topics on the permit test and is free to read. Studying for 30 minutes to an hour before your test significantly improves your chances of passing on the first attempt.

If you are taking a road test, practice driving in the Cleveland area beforehand so you are familiar with local roads and traffic patterns. Examiners often test on streets near the office, so knowing the area helps you feel more confident.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an appointment to take my written test or road test in Cleveland?

Appointment requirements vary. Some Mississippi offices take walk-ins for written tests but require appointments for road tests. Call the Cleveland office at (662) 843-2461 to ask whether you need to schedule ahead or if you can arrive without an appointment.

How long does it take to get my license after I pass the road test?

You receive a temporary permit on the day you pass, valid for 30 days while your physical license is printed and mailed to you. Your permanent license usually arrives within two to three weeks. If it does not arrive within a month, call the Cleveland office to check the status.

Can I take my road test in a vehicle that is not registered to me?

Yes. The vehicle must be insured, have valid registration, and be in safe working condition, but it does not have to be registered in your name. The examiner will check the registration and insurance card before the test begins.

What if I fail my written test or road test?

You can retake either test. For the written test, you can usually retake it the same day or schedule another visit. For the road test, you typically wait a few days before retesting. Call the Cleveland office to schedule your next attempt.

Is the Cleveland office the only place I can get a license in Bolivar County?

Yes, the Cleveland office is the only Mississippi driver's license office in Bolivar County. If you cannot visit Cleveland, you can go to an office in an adjacent county, though you may need to travel further.