How to Renew Your Mississippi Driver's License

Mississippi driver's licenses renew every four years, and you can do it online, by mail, or in person at a DMV office

Mississippi issues driver's licenses valid for four years from your birthday. When your license approaches expiration, the Mississippi Department of Public Safety will send you a renewal notice in the mail about 60 days before the date printed on your card. You have three ways to renew: online through the Mississippi DMV website if you meet certain requirements, by mail if you prefer not to visit an office, or in person at any DMV location if you need a new photo or have changes to report.

The method you choose depends on whether your address or name has changed, whether you need a new photo, and how quickly you need the renewed license. Online renewal is the fastest and requires no office visit, but it is only available if your license is not expired and you have not had certain violations. Mail renewal takes longer but also avoids a trip. In-person renewal is necessary if your license is already expired, if you have had a suspension or revocation, or if you want to update your address or name on the card itself.

Key Takeaways

Mississippi driver's licenses are valid for four years, and the DMV mails a renewal notice about 60 days before expiration.
Online renewal through the Mississippi DMV website is available only if your license is not expired and you have no active suspensions or violations.
Mail renewal requires a completed process form, your current license, and payment, and takes two to three weeks for delivery.
In-person renewal at a DMV office is required if your license is expired, if you have had a suspension, or if you need to change your address or name on the card.
You will need to provide proof of identity, Social Security number, and current address when renewing, regardless of the method you choose.

Online Renewal Through the Mississippi DMV Website

Online renewal is the fastest option if you are may be able to access. You can renew on the Mississippi Department of Public Safety website if your current license is not expired, you have no active suspensions or revocations, and you have not had certain traffic violations in the past four years. The process takes about 10 minutes and costs the standard renewal fee, which varies depending on your license class.

To renew online, you will need your current driver's license number, your Social Security number, and a valid payment method (debit or credit card). You will not receive a new photo during online renewal—your existing photo will be used on the renewed license. The renewed license will be mailed to the address on file within 7 to 10 business days. If you have moved, changed your name, or want a new photo, you must renew in person instead.

Mail Renewal: What You Need and How Long It Takes

Mail renewal allows you to renew without visiting a DMV office, though it takes longer than online renewal. You will need to complete the Driver License process form (Form 79-R), which you can read from the Mississippi DMV website or request by mail. Include your current driver's license, a check or money order for the renewal fee made payable to the Mississippi Department of Public Safety, and mail everything to the address listed on the form.

Mail renewal typically takes two to three weeks from the date the DMV receives your process. Your renewed license will be mailed to the address you provide on the process. If you have moved since your current license was issued, include a proof of your new address—a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the past 60 days will work. Do not send cash through the mail; use a check or money order only.

In-Person Renewal at a Mississippi DMV Office

You must renew in person if your license is already expired, if you have an active suspension or revocation, if you need to change your address or name on the card, or if you want a new photo. Visit any Mississippi DMV office with your current license, proof of your Social Security number, and proof of your current address. Bring your Social Security card, a birth certificate, or a passport as proof of identity.

Processing times at DMV offices vary by location and how busy the office is. Some offices offer walk-in service, while others require you to schedule an appointment online through the Mississippi DMV website. Check your local office's hours and appointment availability before you go. You will pay the renewal fee at the time of your visit, and you will receive a temporary license to use while your permanent license is being mailed. The renewed license typically arrives within 7 to 10 business days.

What Documents and Information You Will Need

Regardless of which renewal method you choose, have the following information ready: your current driver's license number, your Social Security number, and your current address. If you are renewing in person or by mail and your address has changed, bring proof of your new address—a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the past 60 days is acceptable.

If your name has changed since your license was issued, you will need to renew in person and bring a document showing the name change, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. If you are renewing in person and do not have your Social Security card with you, bring a birth certificate, passport, or military ID as proof of identity instead. The DMV will not accept a photocopy of your Social Security card.

Renewal Fees and Payment Methods

The renewal fee for a Mississippi driver's license depends on your license class and how many years you are renewing for. Standard four-year renewals cost less than eight-year renewals. The exact fee is listed on the Mississippi DMV website and on the renewal notice the DMV mails to you. If you are renewing online, you can pay by debit or credit card. If you are renewing by mail, send a check or money order. If you are renewing in person, most DMV offices accept cash, check, debit card, and credit card.

Some DMV offices may charge an additional fee if you need a duplicate license, a corrected license, or a replacement for a lost or stolen license. These fees are separate from the standard renewal fee. Ask about the total cost when you contact your local DMV office or check the website before you visit.

What Happens If Your License Is Already Expired

If your driver's license has already expired, you cannot renew online or by mail. You must visit a DMV office in person. Driving with an expired license is illegal in Mississippi, even if you have a renewal process in progress. Bring your expired license, proof of identity, proof of your Social Security number, and proof of your current address to the DMV office.

The renewal process is the same as for a non-expired license, but you will not be able to use online or mail options. The DMV will issue you a temporary license to use when ready, and your permanent renewed license will be mailed within 7 to 10 business days. If your license has been expired for more than a certain period, the DMV may require you to retake the written test or vision test—ask your local office about their specific rules.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my Mississippi driver's license before it expires?

Yes. You can renew up to six months before your license expires. The DMV will mail you a renewal notice about 60 days before expiration, but you do not have to wait for that notice to start the renewal process. Online and mail renewal are available anytime your license is not expired.

How do I find my local DMV office and check if it requires an appointment?

Visit the Mississippi Department of Public Safety website and use the office locator tool to find the DMV location nearest you. The website shows each office's hours, phone number, and whether appointments are required. Some offices accept walk-ins, while others operate by appointment only.

What if I moved out of state—can I still renew my Mississippi license?

If you have moved to another state, you should obtain a driver's license from your new state instead of renewing your Mississippi license. However, if you still live in Mississippi but your mailing address is temporarily out of state, you can renew online or by mail and have the license sent to an out-of-state address.

Do I need to pass a vision test or written test to renew my license?

For a standard four-year renewal, you do not need to retake the written or road test. However, the DMV may require a vision test if your license has been expired for an extended period or if the DMV has concerns about your driving record. Call your local DMV office if you are unsure whether a test will be required.

Can someone else renew my license for me?

No. You must renew your license yourself, either online, by mail, or in person. If you renew by mail or in person, you must sign the process. The DMV does not allow a family member or representative to renew on your behalf.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.