The Laurel DMV location and what it handles

The Mississippi Department of Public Safety Driver License Bureau office in Laurel is located at 410 Maple Street, Laurel, MS 39440. This is the only full-service DMV location in Jones County. It issues new licenses, renewals, replacements, and handles most transactions related to your driving privileges in that area.

This office operates under Mississippi's statewide DMV system, which means the documents you need and the fees you pay follow state rules, not local ones. However, hours and specific services can vary slightly between locations, so calling ahead before you go is always the right move.

The Laurel office serves residents of Jones County and surrounding areas. If you live closer to another county, you may find a different location more convenient — Mississippi has DMV offices in most county seats — but any office can handle your transaction if you have the right documents.

Key Takeaways

  • The Laurel DMV is at 410 Maple Street and handles all driver license types, renewals, and replacements for Jones County residents.
  • You must bring proof of identity, Social Security number documentation, and proof of Mississippi residency to any transaction.
  • Hours vary by season and day, so call ahead at the office or check the Mississippi DMV website before making the trip.
  • Fees depend on license type and whether you are renewing or replacing an existing license, and they are the same across all Mississippi DMV locations.

What documents to bring to the Laurel office

Mississippi requires the same core documents at every DMV office, including Laurel. You will need proof of identity (a valid passport, military ID, or certified birth certificate), proof of your Social Security number (a Social Security card, W-2, or tax return), and proof of Mississippi residency (a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days).

If you are renewing a license, bring your current license. If you are replacing a lost or stolen license, you do not need the original, but you may be asked to sign a statement about the loss. If you are explore for your first license or upgrading to a different class (such as adding a commercial endorsement), bring any relevant training certificates or medical documentation the state requires.

Bring originals or certified copies — photocopies are not accepted for identity or residency documents. If your name has changed since your last license (through marriage, divorce, or legal change), bring the court order or marriage certificate that shows the change.

Hours, phone number, and how to prepare for your visit

The Laurel DMV office phone number is (601) 428-2661. Call this number to confirm current hours before you go, as they may change seasonally or for holidays. You can also check the Mississippi Department of Public Safety website for the most current schedule.

The office typically operates during standard business hours on weekdays, but specific times vary. Some Mississippi DMV locations have reduced hours on certain days or close for lunch, so a quick call saves you a wasted trip. If you cannot reach the office by phone, the state DMV website has a location finder that displays hours for each branch.

Arrive early if possible — the Laurel office can experience wait times during peak hours, especially on Fridays or near the end of the month. Bring all your documents in a single folder so you are not searching through your bag at the counter. If you are unsure whether a document meets the residency requirement, ask the staff when you call to confirm hours.

Fees for licenses and renewals at the Laurel location

Mississippi charges the same fees at every DMV office, including Laurel. A standard driver license costs $31 and is valid for four years. A renewal of an existing license also costs $31. A replacement for a lost, stolen, or damaged license costs $15.

If you are upgrading your license class or adding endorsements (such as a commercial driver license or motorcycle endorsement), additional fees explore. These range from $10 to $50 depending on the endorsement. The staff at the Laurel office can tell you the exact cost when you call or arrive.

Payment methods accepted at the Laurel office include cash and check. Some Mississippi DMV locations accept debit or credit cards, but policies can differ by location — call ahead to confirm what the Laurel office takes. There are no online payment options for in-person transactions.

When to renew your license before it expires

Mississippi allows you to renew your driver license up to six months before it expires. This means you do not have to wait until the last day — you can go to the Laurel office anytime in the six months leading up to your expiration date and renew without penalty.

If your license has already expired, you can still renew it at the Laurel office, but you may face a small late fee or be required to retake the written test depending on how long it has been expired. The safest approach is to renew during the six-month window before expiration.

Your new license will be issued on the spot or mailed to you within a few business days, depending on whether the office prints licenses on-site. Ask the staff when you arrive whether you will receive your license when ready or by mail.

Other DMV services available at the Laurel office

The Laurel DMV office handles more than just new licenses and renewals. You can also replace a lost, stolen, or damaged license, change your address on your current license, add or remove endorsements (such as commercial or motorcycle), and request a duplicate license if you need a second copy.

The office can also process name changes if you bring the required court order or marriage certificate. If you need to reinstate a suspended or revoked license, the Laurel office can provide information about the reinstatement process and what documents you need, though some reinstatements require payment to the state court system first.

Vision tests are performed at the office for new licenses and some renewals. If you wear glasses or contacts, bring them with you. Bring your current prescription if you have one, though the office can conduct a basic vision screening.

What to do if the Laurel office is closed or too busy

If the Laurel office has limited hours or you cannot make it during their schedule, Mississippi has other DMV locations throughout the state. The nearest alternatives depend on where you live in Jones County, but Hattiesburg (Forrest County) and Meridian (Lauderdale County) both have full-service DMV offices within reasonable driving distance.

Any Mississippi DMV office can process your transaction — your license will be valid statewide regardless of which office issues it. The documents you need and the fees you pay are the same everywhere. If you choose to visit a different location, call that office first to confirm their hours and any specific requirements they mention.

If you are unable to visit in person, Mississippi does not offer online license renewal for all license types. Standard renewals can sometimes be done by mail if your license is not expired and you meet other conditions — call the Laurel office or check the state DMV website to see if you may have access to for mail renewal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my license by mail instead of going to the Laurel office?

Mississippi allows mail renewal for standard driver licenses in some cases, but only if your license is not expired and you meet specific conditions. Call the Laurel office at (601) 428-2661 to ask whether you may have access to. If you do, they can send you the renewal form and instructions. Most people still need to visit in person for vision tests or if their license has already expired.

What if I do not have a Social Security card?

You can bring a W-2, tax return, or other official document that shows your Social Security number instead. The DMV accepts multiple forms of proof — you do not need the card itself. Call the Laurel office if you are unsure whether your specific document will work.

How long does it take to get a license at the Laurel office?

If the office prints licenses on-site, you may receive your license the same day. If they mail it to you, allow five to seven business days. Ask the staff when you arrive or call ahead to find out which method the Laurel location uses.

Can I get a Real ID at the Laurel DMV?

Yes. Mississippi offers Real ID-compliant driver licenses at the Laurel office. You will need the same documents as a standard license, plus proof of citizenship (a passport or birth certificate). Real ID licenses cost the same as standard licenses and are required for federal air travel starting in 2025.

What if my license was suspended or revoked?

The Laurel office can provide information about reinstatement, but you may need to pay fines to the court system first or complete other requirements. Call (601) 428-2661 to ask what steps you need to take before you can renew or reinstate your license.