What Mississippi calls a hardship license and who can get one

Mississippi does not use the term "hardship license." Instead, the state offers a Restricted Driving Permit (RDP), which lets you drive to specific places — work, school, medical appointments, court — during a suspension. You cannot use it for any other reason, and you must carry the permit with you every time you drive.

You can request an RDP if your license is suspended for most reasons, including unpaid traffic fines, failure to appear in court, or a DUI conviction. You cannot get one if your suspension is for a serious violation like driving with a suspended license or fleeing police. The Mississippi Department of Public Safety decides whether to grant your permit based on your reason for requesting it and your driving record.

Key Takeaways

  • Mississippi's Restricted Driving Permit allows you to drive only to work, school, medical care, or court during a suspension — no other trips are permitted.
  • You must request the permit in writing to the Department of Public Safety and explain why you need to drive during your suspension.
  • The department typically responds within two to four weeks, but you should not drive until you receive written approval.
  • You must carry your RDP with you at all times while driving, and a police officer can ask to see it during a traffic stop.
  • An RDP is not automatic; the state can deny your request if your suspension reason makes you ineligible or if your driving history shows a pattern of violations.

How to request a Restricted Driving Permit in Mississippi

Contact the Mississippi Department of Public Safety, Driver License Bureau, in Jackson. You can write to them at P.O. Box 958, Jackson, MS 39205, or call 601-987-1500 to ask for the current mailing address and any forms they require. Some counties have local driver license offices that can accept your request, so calling first saves you a trip.

In your letter, explain why you need to drive — for example, "I need to drive to my job at [employer name] because I have no other transportation" or "I need to drive to medical appointments at [hospital or clinic name]." Be specific about the places you need to reach. Include your driver's license number, date of birth, and the reason your license was suspended. The department uses this information to decide whether your need is genuine and whether your suspension allows an RDP.

Do not drive before you receive written approval. Driving on a suspended license, even with a request pending, is a separate crime and will result in additional charges and a longer suspension.

What the department considers when reviewing your request

The Mississippi Department of Public Safety looks at three things: the reason for your suspension, the reason you are requesting the permit, and your driving history. If you were suspended for unpaid fines or failure to appear, the department is more likely to grant an RDP because those are administrative violations, not safety violations. If you were suspended for a DUI or reckless driving, the department may still grant one, but only if your need is strong and your record shows you are unlikely to violate the permit terms.

The department also considers whether you have a pattern of driving violations or permit violations. If you have been caught driving on a suspended license before, or if you have violated the terms of a previous RDP, your request is likely to be denied. The state wants to see that you will follow the rules.

What you can and cannot do with a Restricted Driving Permit

Your RDP lists the specific purposes for which you can drive. Most permits allow driving to and from work, school, medical appointments, and court. Some also allow driving to a substance abuse treatment program if that is part of your sentence. You cannot use the permit for any other reason — no grocery shopping, no visiting friends, no driving for pleasure.

You must carry the permit with you every time you drive. If a police officer stops you, you must show both your RDP and your suspended license. Driving outside the permitted purposes or without the permit in your possession is a violation and can result in additional charges, fines, and a longer suspension.

The permit is valid only during the suspension period. Once your suspension ends and your license is reinstated, you no longer need the RDP and cannot use it.

Timeline and what happens after you submit your request

The Mississippi Department of Public Safety typically takes two to four weeks to review your request. During this time, you should not drive. If the department approves your request, they will mail you the Restricted Driving Permit. If they deny it, they will send you a letter explaining why.

If your request is denied, you can resubmit it if your circumstances change — for example, if you lose your job and find a new one, or if you complete a DUI education program. You can also contact the department by phone to ask what specific information or documentation would strengthen your case.

Reinstating your license after the suspension ends

When your suspension period is over, your license is not automatically reinstated. You must contact the Mississippi Department of Public Safety to confirm that the suspension has ended and to request reinstatement. Some suspensions require you to pay a reinstatement fee before your license is active again. The fee varies depending on the reason for your suspension — typically between $100 and $250.

Once your license is reinstated, you can drive anywhere without the RDP. Your Restricted Driving Permit is no longer valid and should not be used.

What to do if your request is denied

If the department denies your RDP request, read the denial letter carefully to understand the reason. Common reasons for denial include: the suspension reason does not allow an RDP, your driving record shows too many violations, or your stated need for driving is not considered essential. If you believe the denial is unfair, you can request a hearing before a hearing officer at the Department of Public Safety. This hearing is your chance to explain your situation in person and provide additional evidence.

To request a hearing, write to the Department of Public Safety within 10 days of receiving the denial letter. Include your driver's license number, the date of the denial, and a brief explanation of why you believe the decision should be reconsidered. The department will schedule a hearing date and notify you by mail. Bring any documents that support your case — a letter from your employer confirming your job, medical records showing your appointments, or proof that you have completed a DUI program.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive to the grocery store or run errands with my Restricted Driving Permit?

No. Your RDP limits you to specific purposes listed on the permit — usually work, school, medical care, and court. Grocery shopping and other errands are not permitted. Driving for any other reason is a violation and can result in additional charges and a longer suspension.

What happens if I am stopped by a police officer while driving on my RDP?

You must show the officer both your Restricted Driving Permit and your suspended license. If you are driving within the permitted purposes and have the permit with you, you should not be cited. If you are driving outside the permitted purposes or do not have the permit, you can be charged with driving on a suspended license.

How long does it take to get a Restricted Driving Permit in Mississippi?

The Department of Public Safety typically takes two to four weeks to review your request and mail you the permit. Do not drive before you receive written approval. If you need to drive urgently, contact the department by phone to ask if they can expedite your request.

Can I get an RDP if my license was suspended for a DUI?

Yes, you can request one, but the department is more cautious with DUI suspensions. Your request is more likely to be approved if you can show a strong need — such as a job you will lose without transportation — and if you have completed or are enrolled in a DUI education program.

What do I do when my suspension ends?

Contact the Mississippi Department of Public Safety to confirm your suspension has ended. You may need to pay a reinstatement fee before your license becomes active again. Once reinstated, you can drive anywhere without the RDP.