Where to go for your driver's license in Walnut Grove

Walnut Grove is a small town in Leake County, Mississippi, and it does not have its own Driver's License Examining Station. To get a driver's license, you will need to visit the nearest Mississippi Department of Public Safety (MDPS) office, which is located in Carthage — about 15 miles away. Carthage is the county seat and has the full-service examining station that handles written tests, road tests, and license issuance.

You can also visit any other MDPS Driver's License Examining Station across Mississippi if another location is more convenient for you. The state operates stations in most county seats and larger towns. Before you travel, check the MDPS website or call ahead to confirm hours and any current closures, since some offices have reduced schedules or may close for maintenance.

Key Takeaways

  • Walnut Grove does not have a driver's license office; the nearest full-service station is in Carthage, about 15 miles away.
  • You will need to pass a written test, vision screening, and road test at an MDPS examining station to receive your license.
  • Bring your Social Security number, proof of residency, proof of identity, and proof of lawful presence when you visit.
  • Road tests must be scheduled in advance; walk-in testing is not available at most Mississippi locations.
  • Mississippi offers standard driver's licenses, commercial licenses, and Real ID-compliant licenses, each with different requirements and costs.

What documents you need to bring

Mississippi requires specific documents before you can test for a driver's license. Bring your Social Security number (or a Social Security card), a document proving your identity (such as a birth certificate, passport, or military ID), and proof of residency (such as a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days). If you are under 18, a parent or guardian must sign your process.

If you are explore for a Real ID-compliant license — which is required for federal building access and domestic air travel as of May 2025 — you will also need to bring proof of lawful presence in the United States. This can be your passport, birth certificate, visa, or employment authorization document. Standard Mississippi licenses do not require this proof but will not meet federal identification standards.

Bring originals or certified copies of your documents. Photocopies are not accepted. If your name has changed due to marriage, divorce, or court order, bring the legal document showing the change.

The written test, vision screening, and road test

At the Carthage examining station, you will take a written test covering Mississippi traffic laws and road signs. The test has 30 questions, and you must answer at least 24 correctly to pass. You can study using the Mississippi Driver's Manual, which is free on the MDPS website. The manual is also available in Spanish.

After passing the written test, you will have your vision screened. You must be able to see 20/40 in each eye with or without corrective lenses. If you wear glasses or contacts, bring them with you.

Next, you will schedule a road test. This test is not given on the same day as your written test at most stations. You will drive a vehicle (yours or the examiner's) on public roads while an MDPS examiner watches and scores your driving. You must demonstrate safe handling, proper signaling, parking, and knowledge of traffic laws. Road tests typically take 20 to 30 minutes. Call the Carthage station to book your road test appointment; slots fill up, especially on Fridays and early in the month.

Costs and license types in Mississippi

A standard Mississippi driver's license costs $24 and is valid for four years. If you are 18 or older, you can renew by mail or online without retesting. A Real ID-compliant license costs $27 and is also valid for four years; it has a gold star in the upper right corner and meets federal identification requirements for airports and federal buildings.

If you need a commercial driver's license (CDL) to operate a truck or bus, the cost is higher and the testing is more rigorous. CDL applicants must pass additional written tests on air brakes, hazardous materials, or other endorsements depending on the vehicle type. The Carthage station handles CDL testing, but you should call ahead because CDL road tests require more scheduling lead time.

Duplicate licenses, name changes, and address updates each have their own fees, usually between $5 and $15. Bring cash or a debit card; not all stations accept credit cards.

Hours and how to schedule your road test

The Carthage Driver's License Examining Station is located at 410 Leake Avenue, Carthage, MS 39051. Hours are typically Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., but you should confirm current hours by calling (601) 359-1424 or visiting the MDPS website before you drive out. Some offices close for lunch or state holidays.

Road tests must be scheduled by phone. Call the Carthage station directly to book your appointment. You cannot schedule online. Have your written test receipt and identification ready when you call. Most stations offer road test slots within two to four weeks, but during busy seasons (spring and summer) the wait can be longer. Arrive 15 minutes early on the day of your road test with your vehicle, proof of insurance, and a valid ID.

What to do if you fail the road test

If you do not pass the road test, you can retake it. There is no waiting period between attempts in Mississippi, but you must pay the road test fee again (usually $10 to $15). You do not need to retake the written test unless your written test result has expired. Written test results are valid for 12 months from the date you pass.

Common reasons for failing include improper lane changes, failure to use turn signals, unsafe speeds, poor parking, or not following examiner instructions. Ask the examiner for feedback on what you need to improve, and practice those specific skills before your next appointment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a driver's license in Walnut Grove itself?

No. Walnut Grove does not have a driver's license examining station. You must travel to Carthage or another MDPS station in Mississippi. Carthage is the closest option at about 15 miles away.

Do I need a Real ID license or can I get a standard license?

You can choose either. A standard license costs $24 and is valid for driving. A Real ID license costs $27 and is required for federal building access and domestic air travel starting May 2025. If you fly or enter federal buildings, get the Real ID version.

What if I cannot pass the written test on my first try?

You can retake the written test. There is no waiting period, but you will pay the testing fee again. Study the Mississippi Driver's Manual between attempts. The manual covers every topic on the test and is free online.

How long does it take to get a license from start to finish?

If you pass everything on your first try, you can receive your license the same day as your road test. However, scheduling the road test usually takes two to four weeks from when you call. Plan for a total of one to two months from your first visit to holding your license.

What if I move out of Walnut Grove after I get my license?

Your Mississippi driver's license is valid anywhere you move within the state. If you move out of Mississippi, you will need to get a license from your new state. You can renew your Mississippi license by mail or online up to one year before it expires.