What You Can and Cannot Do Online in Mississippi

Mississippi allows you to renew your driver's license online if you meet specific requirements, but not all renewals are handled this way. You can renew online only if your license is still valid (not expired) and you have not had any major changes to your information — no new address, no name change, no medical conditions to report. If your license has already expired, you must renew in person at a Mississippi Department of Public Safety driver's license office.

The online renewal process takes about 10 minutes and costs the same as renewing in person. You will receive your new license by mail within 7 to 10 business days. During that time, you can still drive legally using your current license.

If you need to change your address, name, or medical information, or if your license expired more than a certain period ago, the online option is not available to you. In those cases, you must visit a driver's license office in person with the required documents.

Key Takeaways

  • You can renew online only if your current license is still valid and your personal information has not changed.
  • The online renewal process costs the same as in-person renewal and takes about 10 minutes to complete.
  • Your new license will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days, and you can continue driving with your current license until it arrives.
  • If your license has expired, you have a name change, or you moved to a new address, you must renew in person at a Mississippi driver's license office.

Steps to Renew Online

Start by visiting the Mississippi Department of Public Safety website and locating the driver's license renewal section. You will need your current driver's license number, Social Security number, and date of birth to log in. Have your license in front of you before you begin.

Once you are logged in, review your current information on file. If everything is correct — your name, address, and other details match what is printed on your license — you can proceed. You will be asked to confirm your information and choose whether you want a standard or REAL ID-compliant license. Then you will pay the renewal fee online using a credit or debit card.

After payment is processed, you will receive a confirmation number. Write this down or save the email confirmation. Your new license will be mailed to the address on file, so make sure that address is current before you submit.

What Information You Need Before Starting

Gather these items before you begin the online renewal process: your current Mississippi driver's license, your Social Security number, and your date of birth. You will also need a valid payment method — a credit card or debit card — to pay the renewal fee online.

If you are not sure whether your license is still valid, check the expiration date printed on the front. If it has already passed, you cannot use the online process. If you have moved since your license was issued, or if your name has changed for any reason, you will also need to renew in person.

Renewal Fees and What They Cover

The cost of renewing your Mississippi driver's license online is the same whether you renew online or in person. As of the most recent update, a standard driver's license renewal costs a set amount, though this can change. Check the Mississippi Department of Public Safety website for the current fee before you start, since prices may vary depending on the type of license or how long your renewal period is.

The fee covers your new license card, which will be mailed to you. It does not cover any additional services, such as changing your address or correcting information — those require an in-person visit. If you want to upgrade to a REAL ID-compliant license during your online renewal, there may be an additional fee; the website will show you the total cost before you pay.

When You Must Renew in Person Instead

You cannot use the online renewal process if your license has already expired. Mississippi has a grace period for renewals, but once that period ends, you must visit a driver's license office in person with proof of identity and residency.

You also must renew in person if you have changed your name, moved to a new address, or need to update medical information on your license. If you have had any traffic violations, suspensions, or other issues with your driving record since your last renewal, you may be required to renew in person as well. The online system will tell you if you are not may be able to access when you try to log in.

If you are unsure whether you can renew online, call your local Mississippi driver's license office or visit the Department of Public Safety website to check your status before you attempt the online process.

After Your Online Renewal Is Complete

Once you have submitted your online renewal and received a confirmation number, your new license will be printed and mailed to the address on file. This usually takes 7 to 10 business days, though it can take longer during busy periods. You do not need to do anything else — just wait for it to arrive.

Your current license remains valid and legal to use while you are waiting for your new one. You can drive, present it as identification, and use it for any purpose until your new license arrives. When the new license comes in the mail, destroy your old one or keep it for your records if you prefer.

If your new license does not arrive within two weeks, contact the Mississippi Department of Public Safety to check on the status. Have your confirmation number ready when you call.

Finding Your Local Driver's License Office

If you need to renew in person instead of online, you will need to visit a Mississippi driver's license office. The Department of Public Safety operates offices throughout the state, and you can visit any office — you do not have to go to the one closest to your home, though most people do.

Find the office nearest you and its hours on the Mississippi Department of Public Safety website. Many offices accept walk-ins, but some require you to schedule an appointment in advance. Call ahead or check online before you go to avoid a wasted trip, especially if you are traveling a long distance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my license online if it has already expired?

No. You can only renew online if your license is still valid. If it has expired, you must visit a driver's license office in person with proof of identity and residency. The office staff can tell you what documents you need to bring.

How long does it take to get my new license after I renew online?

Your new license will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days in most cases. During this time, your current license is still valid and legal to use. If you do not receive it within two weeks, contact the Department of Public Safety with your confirmation number.

What happens if my address changed since I got my current license?

You cannot renew online if your address has changed. You must visit a driver's license office in person and bring proof of your new address, such as a utility bill or lease. The office will update your information and issue a new license.

Can I upgrade to a REAL ID license when I renew online?

Yes. During the online renewal process, you will be asked whether you want a standard license or a REAL ID-compliant license. If you choose REAL ID, there may be an additional fee. The website will show you the total cost before you pay.

What should I do with my old license after the new one arrives?

You can destroy your old license or keep it for your records — there is no requirement either way. Some people keep it as a backup form of identification. If you keep it, make sure it is clear that it is no longer valid.