How Mississippi Reinstates Suspended and Revoked Licenses

The Mississippi Department of Public Safety (MDPS) handles license reinstatement through its Driver License Division. You cannot reinstate your license online or by mail — you must visit a driver license office in person with proof that you have met the reason for suspension or revocation. The MDPS will not reinstate your license until that proof is documented in their system.

The reinstatement process depends entirely on why your license was suspended or revoked. A suspension for unpaid traffic fines requires different steps than a suspension for a DUI conviction or for failure to maintain insurance. Before you go to a driver license office, you need to know which category applies to you and what the MDPS requires as proof.

Key Takeaways

  • You must visit a Mississippi driver license office in person with proof that the reason for suspension has been resolved — online or mail reinstatement is not available.
  • The MDPS charges a reinstatement fee that varies by the type of suspension, typically ranging from $100 to $250.
  • If your license was suspended for a DUI or drug conviction, you may be required to install an ignition interlock device before reinstatement is possible.
  • Suspensions for unpaid child support or failure to pay traffic fines require proof of payment or a payment plan agreement before the MDPS will process your reinstatement.
  • The MDPS can take up to two weeks to process your reinstatement after you submit all required documents at the office.

Common Reasons for Suspension and What Proof You Need

Mississippi suspends licenses for many reasons, and each one requires different documentation. The most common are unpaid traffic fines, failure to maintain auto insurance (often called a financial responsibility suspension), DUI or drug convictions, unpaid child support, and failure to pay court-ordered restitution.

If your suspension is for unpaid traffic fines, bring proof of payment or a signed payment plan agreement from the court. If it is for failure to maintain insurance, bring a current insurance policy or a letter from your insurance company showing continuous coverage from the date you were supposed to be insured. If it is for a DUI or drug conviction, you will need to show completion of any required substance abuse treatment program and proof that you have installed an ignition interlock device (if ordered by the court).

For suspensions related to child support or court-ordered restitution, bring documentation from the Mississippi Department of Human Services or the court showing that you are current on payments or have a signed payment plan. If you are unsure which reason caused your suspension, call the MDPS Driver License Division at 601-987-1500 before you visit an office — they can tell you exactly what documents to bring.

Ignition Interlock Requirements for DUI and Drug Convictions

If your license was suspended or revoked because of a DUI conviction, a drug-related driving offense, or a refusal to take a breath test, Mississippi law requires you to install an ignition interlock device before your license can be reinstated. An ignition interlock is a machine installed in your vehicle that requires you to blow into it before the engine will start — it measures your blood alcohol content.

You must have the device installed by a certified vendor before you go to the MDPS office. Mississippi's certified vendors are listed on the MDPS website. The device stays in your vehicle for a period set by the court, typically six months to three years depending on the offense. You pay for installation and monthly monitoring yourself — costs vary by vendor but typically run $60 to $100 per month.

Bring proof of installation (a receipt or letter from the vendor showing the device is active) when you visit the driver license office. The MDPS will verify the installation in their system before processing your reinstatement. If the court did not order an interlock device, you do not need one — ask the MDPS to confirm this before you spend money on installation.

Reinstatement Fees and Processing Time

The MDPS charges a reinstatement fee when you complete the process at a driver license office. The fee depends on the reason for suspension. Financial responsibility suspensions (failure to maintain insurance) typically cost $100 to $150. DUI-related suspensions cost $250. Other suspensions may cost $100 to $200. Bring a check or money order — not all offices accept credit cards, so call ahead to confirm payment methods.

After you submit all required documents and pay the fee, the MDPS takes up to two weeks to process your reinstatement. During that time, your license remains suspended. Once processing is complete, you will receive a new license by mail or can pick it up at the office where you applied, depending on the office's procedures. Ask the staff member which option applies to you before you leave.

Where to Go and What to Bring

Mississippi has driver license offices in most counties. You can find the office nearest you and its hours on the MDPS website at dps.ms.gov. Bring your current ID (even if it is suspended), proof that you have resolved the reason for suspension, the reinstatement fee, and your Social Security number. If you have changed your name since your license was issued, bring a certified copy of the document that proves the change (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order).

Some offices require you to bring a completed process form. Check the MDPS website or call your local office before you go to see if a form is required and whether you need to make an appointment. Walk-in service is available at most offices, but wait times can be long during peak hours (typically mid-morning and early afternoon on weekdays).

What Happens If You Drive on a Suspended License

Driving on a suspended license in Mississippi is a criminal offense. A first offense is a misdemeanor punishable by up to 30 days in jail and a fine of $100 to $500. A second offense within five years carries up to 60 days in jail and a fine of $250 to $1,000. A third or subsequent offense within five years is a felony.

If you are stopped while your license is suspended, your vehicle can be impounded, and you will face criminal charges in addition to the original reason for suspension. Your insurance will not cover an accident that occurs while you are driving on a suspended license, and you will be personally liable for all damages. If reinstatement is taking longer than expected, ask the MDPS about a temporary driving permit or limited license that allows you to drive to work or school while your reinstatement is being processed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a temporary license while my reinstatement is being processed?

Mississippi offers a limited license for certain suspensions, such as those for failure to maintain insurance. A limited license allows you to drive to work, school, or medical appointments. Ask the staff at the driver license office whether you are may be able to access — not all suspension types may have access to. If you are, you can usually receive the limited license the same day you explore for reinstatement.

What if I cannot afford the reinstatement fee?

The MDPS does not waive reinstatement fees. If you cannot pay the full amount, ask the office whether they accept payment plans. Some offices will allow you to pay in installments, but this varies by location. Call your local office to ask about options before you visit.

Do I need to retake the written or driving test to get my license back?

No. Reinstatement does not require you to retake any test. You only need to provide proof that the reason for suspension has been resolved and pay the reinstatement fee. Your original license will be reissued once processing is complete.

What if my license was suspended in another state but I live in Mississippi?

Mississippi is part of the Driver License Compact, an agreement between states to share suspension information. If your license was suspended in another state, Mississippi will recognize that suspension. You must resolve the suspension in the state where it occurred before Mississippi will reinstate your license. Contact that state's driver license agency to find out what is required.

How long does reinstatement usually take from start to finish?

If you have all required documents and proof ready when you visit the office, the appointment itself takes 15 to 30 minutes. Processing by the MDPS takes up to two weeks. In total, plan for two to three weeks from the day you visit the office until your new license arrives or is ready for pickup.