The Mississippi Written Test Format and Content

Mississippi's written knowledge test has 30 questions, all multiple choice. You must answer at least 24 correctly to pass — that is an 80 percent score. The test covers road signs, traffic laws, safe driving practices, and right-of-way rules specific to Mississippi.

The test is administered at your local Mississippi Department of Public Safety (DPS) driver license office. You take it on a computer terminal in the office itself; there is no online option. The entire test takes about 15 to 20 minutes once you sit down at the terminal.

Mississippi does not publish the exact questions in advance, but the state does provide a study guide called the Mississippi Driver's Manual. This manual covers every topic the test draws from. You can read it free from the Mississippi DPS website or pick up a printed copy at any driver license office.

Key Takeaways

  • You must score at least 24 out of 30 questions correct to pass the Mississippi written test.
  • The test is taken on a computer at a Mississippi DPS driver license office and takes 15 to 20 minutes.
  • All test questions come from topics covered in the free Mississippi Driver's Manual, which you can read or request in print.
  • You can retake the test the same day if you fail, though some offices may require a waiting period between attempts.
  • Bring a valid form of identification and proof of residency when you arrive for your test appointment.

What Topics Appear on the Test

The test focuses on practical road knowledge you will need to drive safely in Mississippi. Expect questions about speed limits, stopping distances, parking rules, and when to yield to other vehicles. The test also covers what different road signs mean — stop signs, yield signs, warning signs, and informational signs.

A significant portion covers right-of-way rules: who goes first at a four-way stop, how to handle intersections, and what to do when emergency vehicles approach. You will also see questions about seat belt laws, child passenger safety requirements, and impaired driving consequences.

The test includes questions about lane changes, turning, backing up, and how to handle skids or loss of traction. A few questions address pedestrian and bicycle safety, since you need to know how to share the road with non-motorists.

How to Prepare Using the Driver's Manual

The Mississippi Driver's Manual is organized by topic, which makes it straightforward to study section by section. Start with the basics: road signs, traffic signals, and right-of-way. These topics make up a large share of the test and are the foundation for everything else.

Read each section carefully and take notes on rules that are specific to Mississippi. For example, Mississippi has particular rules about school bus stops and railroad crossings that differ slightly from other states. Pay close attention to any rule that is stated in bold or highlighted in the manual — those are often test priorities.

After you finish reading, go back through and make flashcards or a study list of the rules you found hardest to remember. Test yourself by covering the answer and trying to recall it. Many people find it helpful to read the manual twice: once all the way through, then a second time focusing only on the sections where they felt less confident.

Scheduling Your Test Appointment

You must schedule your written test in advance at a Mississippi DPS driver license office. You cannot walk in without an appointment. To schedule, call the office in your county or visit the Mississippi DPS website to book online if your county offers that option.

When you call or book online, have your Social Security number ready. You will be asked which type of license you are seeking — Class D (regular passenger vehicle), Class E (motorcycle), or another class — because the test content varies slightly by license type.

Appointment availability varies by office and season. Rural offices may have fewer slots available, so book as soon as you are ready. Most offices can fit you in within one to two weeks, but during busy periods (summer, around holidays) wait times can stretch longer.

Documents to Bring on Test Day

Bring a valid form of identification and proof of residency. A valid ID can be a passport, military ID, or state ID card. Proof of residency can be a utility bill, lease agreement, bank statement, or government mail with your name and current address — it must be dated within the last 60 days.

If you are under 18, bring a parent or guardian with you. They will need to sign consent forms before you can test. Bring the original documents, not photocopies, unless the office has told you otherwise.

Arrive 10 to 15 minutes early. The office will verify your identity, check your documents, and collect any fees before you sit down at the computer terminal. If any document is missing or expired, you will not be allowed to test that day and will need to reschedule.

What Happens If You Fail

If you score below 24 out of 30, you fail the test. Most Mississippi DPS offices allow you to retake the test the same day, though a few offices require you to wait 24 hours before your next attempt. Ask the office staff when ready after you receive your score whether you can retake it right away or must return another day.

When you retake the test, you will get a different set of 30 questions drawn from the same pool of topics. Study the areas where you felt weakest before your second attempt. Many people find it helpful to ask the office staff which topics appeared most on their first test, then focus on those sections of the manual.

There is no limit to how many times you can retake the written test in Mississippi, but each attempt may have a fee. Check with your local office about the cost per retake, as fees can vary slightly by county.

Passing and Moving Forward

Once you pass the written test, you will receive a score report. Keep this report — you will need it when you schedule your road test (also called the driving test). The written test score is valid for 180 days, so you must complete your road test within that window or you will need to retake the written test.

After you pass the written test, the next step is the road test, where a DPS examiner watches you drive and evaluates your ability to handle real traffic. You will need to bring your own vehicle, proof of insurance, and a valid ID to that appointment as well.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use my phone or notes during the test?

No. The test is proctored, meaning an office staff member watches while you take it. You cannot use your phone, notes, or any outside materials. Only you and the computer terminal are permitted during the test.

What if I do not pass on my first try?

You can retake the test, usually the same day or within 24 hours depending on your office. Study the manual again, focusing on the topics you found hardest. Each retake uses a different set of questions from the same topic pool.

How long is my written test score valid?

Your passing score is valid for 180 days. You must schedule and pass your road test within that time frame. If 180 days pass without a road test, you will need to retake the written test before you can proceed.

Is the test offered in languages other than English?

Mississippi offers the written test in English only. If you need language support, contact your local DPS office to ask about interpreter services or other accommodations before your appointment.

What is the fee for the written test?

Test fees vary by county and license type. Call your local Mississippi DPS driver license office or check the state website for the exact fee in your area. Retake fees may differ from the initial test fee.