Where to explore for a Driver's License in New Albany

The New Albany Driver's License Office is located at 1016 Gholson Avenue, New Albany, MS 38652. This is the only Mississippi Department of Public Safety office in Union County, so it handles all driver's license services for the area — new licenses, renewals, replacements, and upgrades.

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 replace your license by mail in Mississippi, so you must visit in person. There is no appointment system; service is first-come, first-served. Arrive early on weekdays if possible, as wait times can run 30 to 60 minutes during mid-morning and early afternoon.

If you live outside New Albany but within Union County, this is still your only option. If you live in a neighboring county, you may be closer to an office in Oxford, Tupelo, or Corinth, but you can also use New Albany.

Key Takeaways

  • The New Albany Driver's License Office is at 1016 Gholson Avenue and is open Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., with no appointments available.
  • You must bring an original or certified birth certificate, proof of Social Security number, and proof of residency — a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within 60 days.
  • A new driver's license costs $24.00 for a four-year license or $36.00 for an eight-year license; renewal and replacement fees differ.
  • If you are under 21, you will receive a Graduated Driver's License with restrictions on nighttime driving and passenger limits until you turn 21.
  • You must pass a written knowledge test, a vision screening, and a driving skills test before receiving your license.

Documents You Must Bring to the New Albany Office

Mississippi requires three categories of documents: proof of identity, proof of Social Security number, and proof of residency. Bring originals or certified copies — photocopies are not accepted.

Proof of identity: An original or certified birth certificate is the most common choice. You can also use a passport, passport card, or military ID. If your birth certificate is not certified, the office will not accept it.

Proof of Social Security number: Bring your Social Security card, a W-2 form, a 1099 form, or a tax return. A Social Security statement from ssa.gov also works. Do not rely on memory; you must have a document.

Proof of residency: Bring a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or property tax bill dated within 60 days of your visit. Bank statements, insurance bills, and government mail also work. The document must show your current name and address. If you are homeless or living with someone else, ask the office staff about alternative documents before you visit.

Fees and License Types in Mississippi

A new driver's license costs $24.00 for a four-year license or $36.00 for an eight-year license. You choose the term when you explore. Renewal costs $24.00 for four years or $36.00 for eight years. A replacement license (if yours is lost, stolen, or damaged) costs $10.00.

If you are under 21, you will receive a Graduated Driver's License (GDL) instead of a standard license. A GDL restricts nighttime driving (10:00 p.m. to 5:00 a.m.) and limits passengers under 21 to one, unless a parent or guardian is in the vehicle. These restrictions lift when you turn 21, and you can renew your license as a standard adult license at that time.

Mississippi does not charge extra for a GDL; the fee is the same as for a standard license. If you need a REAL ID-compliant license (required for federal buildings and domestic air travel after May 7, 2025), the fee is the same, but you must bring additional documents: a passport, passport card, or certified birth certificate, plus proof of residency.

Tests You Must Pass Before Receiving Your License

You must pass three tests at the New Albany office: a written knowledge test, a vision screening, and a driving skills test. You cannot take these tests online or by mail.

The written knowledge test covers traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. It is 30 questions, and you must score at least 24 correct (80 percent). You can study using the Mississippi Driver's Manual, available free at the office or online at mdps.ms.gov. The test is offered in English and Spanish. You get one attempt per visit; if you fail, you must return on another day to retake it.

The vision screening checks your eyesight at the office. If you wear glasses or contacts, bring them. If you fail, you may be required to see an eye doctor and bring a vision certificate before you can proceed.

The driving skills test is a road test conducted by an examiner. You must bring a vehicle that is registered, insured, and in safe working condition. The examiner will test your ability to start, stop, turn, park, and respond to traffic. If you fail, you can retake it, but you must wait and return on another day.

What to Expect on Your Visit Day

Arrive with all required documents and your fee payment in cash or card (the office accepts both). Check in at the front desk and take a number. You will wait for your turn, which can take 30 to 60 minutes depending on how busy the office is.

When called, a staff member will review your documents, verify your information, and take your photograph. You will then take the written test. If you pass, you will have your vision screening. If you pass that, you will be scheduled for a driving skills test on a later date — usually within one to two weeks. You will not take the road test on the same day as your written test.

Once you pass all three tests, your license will be printed at the office and issued to you before you leave. If you fail any test, you will be told which one and when you can return to retake it.

Renewing or Replacing Your License in New Albany

If your license is expiring or has expired, you must renew it in person at the New Albany office. Bring your current license, proof of residency (dated within 60 days), and your fee. You will not retake the written or driving tests unless your license has been expired for more than five years.

If your license is lost, stolen, or damaged, you can get a replacement. Bring proof of identity, proof of residency, and $10.00. If your license was stolen, you may be asked to file a report or sign a statement. You will not retake tests for a replacement.

If your name has changed due to marriage, divorce, or court order, bring a certified copy of the document proving the change (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order) along with your current license and proof of residency. The fee is $10.00 for a replacement with a new name.

Common Mistakes to Avoid at the New Albany Office

Do not bring photocopies of your birth certificate or Social Security card. The office requires originals or certified copies. A photocopy will be rejected, and you will have to return with the correct document.

Do not assume your utility bill counts as proof of residency if it is older than 60 days. Check the date before you go. If it is too old, bring a different document or ask the office what alternatives they will accept.

Do not skip studying for the written test. The test covers specific traffic laws and road signs, and you must score 80 percent. The Mississippi Driver's Manual is free and covers everything on the test.

Do not bring a vehicle for the driving skills test that is not registered and insured. The examiner will check the registration and insurance before the test begins. If the vehicle does not have both, the test will not happen, and you will have to return another day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my license online or by mail in Mississippi?

No. Mississippi requires all driver's license transactions — new licenses, renewals, and replacements — to be done in person at a Driver's License Office. There is no online or mail renewal option.

What if I fail the written test?

You can retake it, but you must return to the office on a different day. There is no limit on how many times you can retake it, but each attempt costs the full license fee again. Study the Mississippi Driver's Manual before your next visit.

Do I need a REAL ID to drive in Mississippi?

No. A standard driver's license is valid for driving. REAL ID is only required for federal buildings and domestic air travel. If you need REAL ID, bring a passport or certified birth certificate along with your other documents, and the fee is the same.

How long does it take to get my license after I pass all the tests?

Your license is printed and issued at the office on the day you pass your driving skills test. You will have it in hand before you leave. There is no waiting period.

What if I move out of New Albany after I get my license?

Your license is valid statewide and nationwide. You do not need to update it when you move within Mississippi. If you move to another state, you may need to get a license from that state, depending on its rules.