What you need to do to replace a lost, stolen, or damaged license

If your Mississippi driver's license is lost, stolen, damaged, or worn out, you can get a replacement by visiting your local Department of Public Safety driver's license office in person. You'll need to bring specific documents, pay a fee, and have your photo taken. The process is straightforward, but the documents you bring matter — bring the wrong ones and you'll have to come back.

Mississippi does not offer online or mail-in replacement for a standard driver's license. You must appear in person at a driver's license office. The good news is that most replacements are issued the same day or within a few days, so you won't be without a license for long.

Key Takeaways

  • You must visit a Mississippi Department of Public Safety driver's license office in person with proof of identity and residency to get a replacement.
  • The replacement fee is typically under $30, but the exact amount depends on how long your new license will be valid.
  • Bring an original or certified copy of your birth certificate, a Social Security card or number, and proof of your current address.
  • Most replacements are issued the same day, though some offices may take a few business days during busy periods.
  • If your license was stolen, you may want to report it to help prevent identity theft, though this is separate from the replacement process.

Documents you need to bring

Mississippi requires you to bring proof of identity, proof of Social Security number, and proof of your current address. For identity, bring an original or certified copy of your birth certificate, a U.S. passport, a military ID, or a tribal ID. A photocopy of your birth certificate will not work — it must be an original or certified copy from the vital records office.

For your Social Security number, bring your Social Security card itself, or you can provide your number verbally and sign a statement at the office. For proof of address, bring a recent utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement in your name. A bill dated within the last 60 days works best. If you've recently moved and don't have a utility bill yet, a lease or rental agreement with your new address will work.

Bring your current Mississippi driver's license if you still have it, even if it's damaged. If it's lost or stolen, you don't need it — just tell the clerk. You'll also need to fill out form DL-44 (process for Driver's License or Instruction Permit) at the office.

The replacement fee and license validity

The fee for a replacement license varies depending on how long you want your new license to be valid. A four-year license costs less than an eight-year license. As of the most recent information available, a four-year replacement is typically around $24 to $28, and an eight-year replacement is typically around $33 to $37, but these amounts can change. Call your local driver's license office or check the Mississippi Department of Public Safety website to confirm the current fee before you go.

You can choose which validity period you want when you explore. An eight-year license costs more upfront but means you won't need to replace it as often. A four-year license is cheaper but requires you to renew sooner. Either way, you'll pay the fee at the office when you submit your process.

Where to go and what to expect

Mississippi has driver's license offices in most counties. You can visit any office in the state — you don't have to go to the one in your county. Find the office nearest you on the Mississippi Department of Public Safety website, which lists addresses, phone numbers, and hours. Many offices are open Monday through Friday during standard business hours, though some have extended hours or Saturday appointments.

When you arrive, check in at the front desk and tell the clerk you need a replacement license. You'll fill out form DL-44 if you haven't already, submit your documents, and have your photo taken. The photo is taken at the office, so you don't need to bring one. Most offices complete the process the same day and issue your license before you leave. If the office is very busy, you may be told to return in a few days.

If your license was stolen

If your license was stolen rather than lost or damaged, you may want to report it to help prevent someone from using it for identity theft. You can file a report with local police or the Mississippi Attorney General's office. This step is optional but recommended if you're concerned about fraud. Reporting the theft does not speed up the replacement process — it's a separate action you take to protect yourself.

When you go to the driver's license office, mention that your license was stolen. The clerk will note this in the system. You still follow the same replacement process and bring the same documents.

Replacing a damaged or worn license

If your license is still in your possession but is damaged, faded, or worn, you can still bring it to the office along with your other documents. The clerk will take it from you and issue a replacement. You don't need to explain the damage — just bring it with you. If your license is so damaged that the information is unreadable, bring it anyway; the office can look up your record in the system.

A worn or faded license that still works is not an emergency, so you can take your time scheduling an office visit. However, if your license is cracked, warped, or the photo is no longer visible, replacing it sooner rather than later is a good idea, since a damaged license may not scan properly at airports or other checkpoints.

Temporary licenses and what to do while you wait

If your license is lost or stolen and you need to drive before your replacement arrives, ask the clerk at the driver's license office whether a temporary paper license is available. Some offices issue a temporary document that you can use while your permanent replacement is being processed. This is not may provide at every office, so call ahead to ask. If a temporary is not available and your replacement will take several days, you may need to arrange alternative transportation until your new license arrives.

If you're replacing a damaged license and the office issues your replacement the same day, you can drive home with your new license when ready. Keep your receipt until your new license arrives in the mail, if applicable — though most replacements are handed to you at the office.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a replacement license if my current one is suspended or revoked?

No. You cannot get a replacement for a suspended or revoked license. You must first resolve the suspension or revocation through the court or the Mississippi Department of Public Safety. Once the suspension or revocation is lifted, you can then request a replacement.

How long does a replacement license take if I order it by mail?

Mississippi does not offer mail-in replacement for driver's licenses. You must visit a driver's license office in person. Most replacements are issued the same day, though busy offices may take a few business days.

What if I don't have a birth certificate?

You need an original or certified copy of your birth certificate to get a replacement license. If you don't have one, you can order a certified copy from the Mississippi State Department of Health, Vital Records office. This takes time, so order it as soon as possible. In the meantime, you cannot get a replacement license.

Do I need an appointment to get a replacement license?

Most Mississippi driver's license offices accept walk-ins, but some locations now require appointments. Call your local office or check the Mississippi Department of Public Safety website to see whether appointments are required in your area. If appointments are required and none are available, you may have to wait for the next opening.

Can someone else pick up my replacement license for me?

No. You must be present in person to explore for and receive your replacement license. The office will not issue it to someone else, even with a power of attorney or written permission.