The Laurel Driver's License Office Location and Hours

The Mississippi Department of Public Safety issues driver's licenses at a single office in Laurel, located at 1401 Sawmill Road, Laurel, MS 39440. This is the office that serves Jones County and the surrounding area. You can reach them by phone at (601) 428-0394 to confirm hours or ask questions before you go.

Hours vary by day and change seasonally, so call ahead or check the Mississippi Department of Public Safety website before making the trip. The office is closed on state holidays and sometimes closes for staff training. Arriving early in the day typically means shorter wait times, especially on weekdays.

Parking is available at the location. Bring all required documents with you on your first visit — going back a second time because you forgot something costs you time and gas money.

Key Takeaways

  • The Laurel driver's license office is at 1401 Sawmill Road and serves Jones County residents seeking learner's permits, written tests, road tests, and license renewals.
  • Call (601) 428-0394 to confirm current hours before you visit, since hours change and the office closes for holidays and training.
  • Bring your Social Security card, proof of residency, proof of identity, and any other documents required for your specific license type on your first visit.
  • Arriving early on a weekday usually means a shorter wait than afternoons or Saturdays.

What Documents to Bring to the Laurel Office

The documents you need depend on whether you are getting a learner's permit, taking a written test, taking a road test, or renewing an existing license. In all cases, bring your Social Security card (original, not a copy) and proof of residency — a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within the last 60 days works.

You will also need proof of identity. A birth certificate (original or certified copy) is the most common choice. If you do not have a birth certificate, a passport, military ID, or school records can work instead. Ask the office which documents they accept if you are unsure.

If you are taking a road test, bring your vehicle and proof of insurance. The vehicle must pass a safety inspection — working lights, brakes, wipers, and mirrors. If you are renewing a license, bring your current license card.

Getting Your Learner's Permit at the Laurel Office

A learner's permit is your first step. You get it by passing a written test on traffic laws and road signs. The test is given at the Laurel office and takes about 30 minutes. You must be at least 15 years old in Mississippi to get a learner's permit.

Before you take the test, study the Mississippi Driver's Manual, which is free and available online from the Department of Public Safety website. The manual covers everything the test covers. You can also pick up a printed copy at the Laurel office.

The written test costs a fee (fees vary and change, so call the office for the current amount). You pay when you arrive. If you pass, you get your permit the same day. If you do not pass, you can retake it, but you must wait before your next attempt — ask the office about the waiting period when you call.

Taking Your Road Test in Laurel

Once you have held your learner's permit for the required time (in Mississippi, this is typically at least 30 days), you can schedule a road test at the Laurel office. The road test is a 20- to 30-minute drive with an examiner who watches how you handle the vehicle, follow traffic laws, and respond to road conditions.

You must bring your own vehicle, your learner's permit, and proof of insurance. The vehicle must be safe — working brakes, lights, wipers, horn, and mirrors. The examiner will do a quick safety check before the test begins. If the vehicle fails, you cannot take the test that day.

You must also bring a licensed adult (at least 21 years old) to the office, though they do not ride in the car during the test. The road test fee is separate from the permit fee. Call the office for the current cost and to schedule your test, since road tests are by appointment only.

Renewing or Replacing Your License in Laurel

If your license is expiring or you have lost it, the Laurel office handles renewals and replacements. A standard driver's license in Mississippi is valid for four years. You can renew in person at the office or, in some cases, by mail — call to ask if you are a candidate for mail renewal.

For an in-person renewal, bring your current license and proof of residency. If your license has been lost or stolen, bring a police report and your Social Security card. Replacement licenses cost less than a new license but more than a renewal, so ask the office for the exact fee.

If your address has changed, you must update it when you renew. Bring proof of your new address — a utility bill or lease in your name works. The office will issue your new card the same day in most cases.

What to Expect on Your Visit Day

Arrive 10 to 15 minutes early so you have time to check in and make sure your documents are in order. The office uses a ticket system — you take a number when you arrive and wait for your number to be called. Wait times range from 15 minutes to over an hour depending on the day and time.

Bring all your documents in a folder or envelope so they do not get lost or mixed up. Have your Social Security card and proof of residency ready to hand over. If you are taking a test, bring a pen (the office may provide one, but it is safer to bring your own).

The staff at the Laurel office can answer questions about what you need, but they cannot tell you whether you will pass a test or what the outcome will be. If you have questions about your specific situation before you go, call ahead — it saves time on the day of your visit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take my written test and road test on the same day?

No. You must pass your written test first, then hold your learner's permit for at least 30 days before you can take a road test. You can schedule your road test for a different day once you have met the waiting period.

What if I fail my road test?

You can retake it, but you must wait a certain number of days before your next attempt. Call the Laurel office to ask how long you must wait and to schedule your next test. Most people pass on their second or third try.

Do I need an appointment to get a learner's permit or renew my license?

Road tests require an appointment. For learner's permits and renewals, you typically walk in during office hours, take a number, and wait. Call the office to confirm their current process, as procedures can change.

What if I do not have a birth certificate?

You can use a passport, military ID, school records, or other official documents that show your identity and date of birth. Call the Laurel office with a list of what you have, and they will tell you what they accept.

Can someone else pick up my license for me?

No. You must be present in person to get your license or permit. This is a state requirement for security reasons.