Mississippi driver's license renewal happens through the Department of Public Safety, and you can renew in person, by mail, or online depending on your situation and how much time you have.
Mississippi issues driver's licenses that expire every four or eight years, depending on your age and the type of license you hold. You can renew starting 90 days before your license expires. The state offers three routes: online renewal for those who meet certain requirements, mail renewal for may be able to access drivers, or in-person renewal at any Driver Services office. Each route has different requirements and timelines, so your choice depends on whether you need your new license quickly and whether you've had any changes to your address, medical conditions, or legal name.
Key Takeaways
- Mississippi allows online renewal for drivers whose licenses are not suspended or revoked and who have not had a name change since their last renewal.
- Mail renewal takes roughly two to three weeks from the time the Department of Public Safety receives your process, while online renewal is faster.
- In-person renewal at a Driver Services office is the only option if your license is suspended, revoked, or if you have changed your legal name.
- You can renew starting 90 days before your license expires, and you should plan ahead because some offices have longer wait times during certain months.
- The renewal fee varies based on your license type and how many years you are renewing for, and you must provide proof of residency if you have moved.
Online Renewal: The Fastest Route If You may have access to
Online renewal through the Mississippi Department of Public Safety website is the quickest option if your situation meets the requirements. You can renew online only if your current license is valid and not suspended or revoked, you have not changed your legal name since your last renewal, and your address on file is current. The process takes about 10 minutes: you enter your driver's license number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number, then pay the renewal fee by credit or debit card.
Your new license will be mailed to the address on file within 7 to 10 business days after you complete the online transaction. This route works well if you are renewing early and do not need your new license when ready. However, if you have moved, changed your name, or your license is under suspension, you cannot use online renewal and must choose mail or in-person instead.
Mail Renewal: Slower but Requires No Office Visit
Mail renewal lets you renew without visiting a Driver Services office, though it takes longer than online renewal. You must request a renewal process form from the Department of Public Safety by calling their main line or visiting a Driver Services office in person to pick one up. You fill out the process, include your current license, and mail everything to the address provided on the form along with your renewal fee paid by check or money order.
Processing time is typically two to three weeks from the date the Department receives your process, not from the date you mail it. If you have moved since your last renewal, you must include proof of your new address—a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within the last 60 days works. Mail renewal is not an option if your license is suspended or revoked, or if you have changed your legal name; those situations require an in-person visit.
In-Person Renewal at a Driver Services Office
In-person renewal is required if your license is suspended or revoked, if you have changed your legal name, or if you prefer to walk out with a temporary license the same day. You can visit any Driver Services office in Mississippi during their business hours. Bring your current license, proof of residency if you have moved (utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement from the last 60 days), and payment for the renewal fee. If you have changed your name, bring a certified copy of the document that shows the change—a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order.
Wait times at Driver Services offices vary by location and time of year. Offices in larger cities tend to be busier, especially on Fridays and during lunch hours. Some offices allow you to check wait times online before you go. You will receive a temporary license on the spot that is valid for 45 days while your permanent license is mailed to you, which normally arrives within 7 to 10 business days.
What You Need to Bring and What It Costs
The documents you bring depend on your renewal route, but all routes require proof of identity and residency. For any renewal, have your current driver's license ready. If you have moved, bring proof of your new address: a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days. If you have changed your legal name, bring the certified document that shows the change.
The renewal fee depends on your license type and how many years you are renewing for. A standard four-year renewal costs less than an eight-year renewal. You can pay by credit card or debit card for online renewal, by check or money order for mail renewal, or by cash, check, or card at a Driver Services office. The Department of Public Safety website lists the exact fee for your situation. If you are over 65, you may be able to renew for a longer period at a lower cost; ask at your local office or check the website.
When Your License Expires and How to Plan Ahead
Your driver's license expiration date is printed on the front of your card. Drivers under 65 typically receive a four-year license, while drivers 65 and older may receive an eight-year license. You can renew starting 90 days before your license expires. If you wait until your license has already expired, you can still renew, but you may face additional requirements or fees, and you cannot legally drive until your new license arrives.
Plan your renewal timing based on which route you choose. If you are using online renewal, you can do it anytime during the 90-day window and have your new license within a week or two. If you are using mail renewal, send your process at least three weeks before your expiration date to account for mail delivery and processing time. If you are using in-person renewal, check the wait times at your local office and plan to go during a less busy time if possible.
What Happens If Your License Expires Before You Renew
If your license expires before your new one arrives, you cannot legally drive. Driving with an expired license can result in a traffic citation and fine. If you are in this situation, visit a Driver Services office in person to request an expedited temporary license, though this may involve additional fees. To avoid this, renew at least two weeks before your expiration date if you are using mail renewal, or at least one week before if you are using online renewal.
If your license has already expired and you need to drive when ready, you must visit a Driver Services office to get a temporary license while your permanent one is being processed. Bring all required documents and be prepared to pay the renewal fee plus any applicable late fees.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my Mississippi driver's license if I have a suspended or revoked license?
No, you cannot renew online or by mail if your license is suspended or revoked. You must visit a Driver Services office in person. The office staff can tell you whether you are able to renew or whether you must resolve the suspension or revocation first. Bring your current license and any documents related to why the suspension occurred.
What if I changed my name since my last renewal?
You must renew in person at a Driver Services office and bring a certified copy of the document that shows your name change—a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. Online and mail renewal are not available when you have a name change on file.
How long does it take to get my new license after I renew online?
Your new license is mailed within 7 to 10 business days after you complete the online renewal. Mail delivery time varies, so allow an additional few days. If you need your license faster, renew in person at a Driver Services office to receive a temporary license the same day.
Do I need to take a new photo or pass a vision test to renew?
For online and mail renewal, you do not need a new photo or vision test—your renewal uses your existing photo. For in-person renewal, you may be asked to take a new photo and pass a vision screening depending on how long it has been since your last renewal and your age. Ask your local Driver Services office what to expect.
What if I moved and my address on file is wrong?
If you have moved, you can still renew, but you must provide proof of your new address. Bring a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days. If you are renewing by mail, include this document with your process. If you are renewing online, you may need to update your address at a Driver Services office first.