In Mississippi, a driver's license is an official document issued by the Mississippi Department of Public Safety (MS DPS) through its Mississippi Driver Service Bureau (MS DSB). This license allows individuals to operate motor vehicles legally on public roads within the state.
As mandated by Mississippi Code Title 63, Chapter 1, every driver must possess a valid driver's license to establish compliance with state traffic laws and regulations.
The MS DSB oversees the issuance, renewal, and replacement of driver's licenses. Familiarity with the bureau's regulations is essential for navigating these procedures, as they specify eligibility requirements, required tests, and necessary documentation.
What Are the Types of Driver's Licenses in Mississippi?
The DSB issues various driver's licenses in Mississippi to accommodate different vehicle types and driving needs. These include licenses for regular passenger vehicles, commercial vehicles, motorcycles, and unique endorsements.
Regular Driver's License (Class R)
The Mississippi Class R license is the standard driver's license for personal use. It allows individuals to operate passenger vehicles and light trucks. Applicants must meet age requirements and pass written and vision tests administered by the DSB. The Class R license is typically valid for four or eight years, depending on the chosen renewal period.
Commercial Driver's License (CDL)
There are three classes of CDLs in the state, each catering to different types of commercial vehicles.
Class A CDL
This CDL is required for drivers operating vehicles with a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of 26,001 pounds or more, towing a vehicle over 10,001 pounds GVWR. Examples of vehicles that fall under this category include tractor-trailers or semi-trucks.
Class B CDL
The Class B CDL allows drivers to operate single vehicles with a GVWR of 26,001 pounds or more. Examples include dump trucks, straight trucks, and large buses.
Class C CDL
A Class C CDL permits driving single vehicles with a GVWR of less than 26,001 pounds used for transporting hazardous materials or sixteen or more passengers. This license is essential for certain types of commercial operations that do not fall under Class A or B requirements.
Light Commercial Driver's License (Class D)
Vehicles like taxis, limousines, and those for commercial use under 26,000 pounds or carrying up to 15 passengers require a light commercial license. Driving a pickup truck doesn't require a commercial license unless transporting hazardous materials needs a placard.
Motorcycle Endorsement
To operate motorcycles, drivers must obtain a motorcycle endorsement by passing specific written and skills tests. This endorsement can be added to a regular driver's license.
School Bus License
This license is issued to individuals aged 21 or older who pass specialized tests and endorsements required for transporting students. The DSB regulates this type of license to ensure safety standards are met.
Learner's Permits
There are two main types of learner's permits available in Mississippi:
Temporary Learner's Permit
The temporary learner's permit is issued to high school students aged 14 and above enrolled in an approved driver education course.
Regular Learner's Permit
The regular learner's permit is available to individuals aged 15 and older. It allows them to practice driving with a licensed adult in the passenger seat.
Provisional Driver's License
Under certain circumstances, such as for newly released inmates, provisional licenses with driving restrictions are granted. The DSB closely monitors this license type to ensure compliance with state regulations.
How To Obtain a Driver's License in Mississippi?
Obtaining a driver's license in Mississippi involves meeting specific requirements and following a detailed process set by the MS DPS through the MS DSB. This process includes obtaining a learner's permit, passing required tests, and finally receiving the Class R license.
Requirements for Obtaining a Driver's License
Applicants must be 16 years old to apply for a Class R license. Those who are 15 years old can apply for a regular learner's permit. Required documentation includes:
- A completed and signed application form
- An original birth certificate or any acceptable document proving identity
- A Social Security card or an official government correspondence displaying the full nine digits
- Two proofs of residency in Mississippi, such as utility bills, bank statements, or a lease agreement
- Other relevant legal documents, if the applicant is going by a new name
Applicants under 18 must provide a 30-day valid Certification of Attendance from their school or a marriage license if married. If they have graduated, they must present a diploma or GED (General Educational Development) certificate.
For 16-year-olds, a learner's permit must be held for 12 months or until their 17th birthday, whichever occurs first, before qualifying for a Class R license. They must provide a valid learner's permit, an up-to-date school attendance form, and a Waiver of Road-Testing Affidavit.
Applicants who are 17 years old and older are not required to hold the permit for 12 months and may obtain both the learner's permit and driver's license on the same day.
They must pass the required tests and present all applicable documents needed. The Waiver of Road Testing Affidavit is not required for applicants 17 and older.
Driver's License Examinations
To obtain a driver's license in Mississippi, applicants must pass several examinations:
Vision Test
All applicants must pass a vision test to determine if they meet the visual acuity standards for safe driving. The minimum vision requirement is 20/40 in one or both eyes, whether corrected or uncorrected. If vision is limited to one eye, it must meet the 20/40 standard, supported by documentation from a licensed physician.
Knowledge Test
The knowledge test is a computerized exam based on Mississippi traffic laws, safe driving rules, and driver's license requirements. The test consists of 30 questions. Applicants must correctly answer at least 24 questions to pass (an 80% passing score). Applicants can prepare for the test by studying the Mississippi Driver's Manual.
Road Test
The road test assesses the applicant's driving skills, including driving in reverse, following vehicles, parking, signaling, and yielding the right-of-way.
The vehicle used for the test must have a valid inspection sticker, registration, and insurance, with properly mounted red GDL (Graduated Driver Licensing) decals, if applicable. It must have accessible brakes and functioning signals and wipers.
The accompanying driver must meet specific criteria, such as being a licensed driver who is at least 21 years old and has held their license for at least one year.
Application Process
Obtaining a driver's license in Mississippi involves several steps. First, the individual must secure a learner's permit. After meeting all the requirements and passing the necessary tests, they can earn a Class R driver's license or the standard driver's license.
Obtaining a Learner's Permit
To begin, applicants must visit a Driver's License Station to submit their application form and required documents. After passing the vision and knowledge tests, applicants will be issued a regular learner's permit. This permit allows them to practice driving under the supervision of a licensed driver at least 21 years old.
Supervised Driving
For 16-year-olds, the supervised driving phase mandates practicing under the guidance of an adult supervising driver following the learner's permit guidelines. During this period, they must adhere to the driving restrictions outlined for learner permit holders.
For applicants who are 17 years old and older, the supervised driving phase is not required if they obtain both the learner's permit and driver's license on the same day.
Obtaining a Class R Driver's License
After meeting the supervised driving requirements, applicants can schedule a road test. They must bring the required documents. Upon passing the road test, applicants will receive authorization to obtain their Class R License.
They must be at a Driver's License Station to receive their Class R driver's license and pay the required fees.
Driver's License Fees
The fees for obtaining a driver's license in Mississippi vary depending on the type and duration of the license. A Class R license costs $24 for four years or $47 for eight years, and a learner's permit costs $7.
The MS DPS accepts cash, credit, and debit cards (Visa/MasterCard only) for payment. Personal checks are not accepted.
How To Renew or Replace a Driver's License in Mississippi?
In Mississippi, renewing a driver's license is necessary to maintain valid driving privileges. Additionally, replacing a license may be required if it is lost or stolen or if the driver's personal information changes, such as in the case of a name change.
Renewal Process
Individuals can renew a driver's license in Mississippi in person or online. Licenses may be renewed up to six months before the expiration date. If a driver's license has already expired, it can still be renewed, but the renewal process must be completed within a certain timeframe to avoid additional penalties.
Licenses that have been expired for less than 18 months can be renewed without retaking the knowledge or road tests, but a late fee may apply. If a license has been expired for more than 18 months, the driver may be required to retake the knowledge and road tests to renew the license. For an in-person renewal, drivers must visit a local Driver's License Station.
Drivers who wish to renew must bring their current driver's license, proof of residency (such as a utility bill or bank statement), and proof of identity if any personal information has changed (like a name change due to marriage or divorce).
At the office, they must fill out a Renewal/Replacement application form, pass a vision screening to ensure they meet the visual acuity standards for safe driving, and pay the renewal fee, which is the same as obtaining a Class R license. Late renewals may warrant a $1 late fee. Once the application is processed and the fee is paid, the renewed license will be issued.
Alternatively, Mississippi offers an Online License Renewal service for eligible drivers. Eligible applicants must enter their personal details and driver's license information, pay the applicable fee using a credit or debit card, and submit the application. The renewed license will then be mailed to the address on file.
Replacement Process
If a driver's license is lost or stolen, it can be replaced either in person or online. For an in-person replacement, drivers should visit the local Driver's License Station and notify them if the license was stolen. They must bring proof of identity, their Social Security card, and two proofs of residency.
After filling out the Renewal/Replacement application form and paying the replacement fee of $11, the replacement license will be issued.
Similar to renewal, drivers can request a license replacement online through the Official Duplicate License service. They must provide personal details and driver's license information, pay the applicable fee using a credit or debit card, and submit the application. The replacement license will then be mailed to the address on file.
What Happens if a Driver's License Is Suspended in Mississippi?
In Mississippi, the Commissioner of Public Safety has the authority to suspend a driver's license without a preliminary hearing based on public records or sufficient evidence. Common reasons for license suspension include:
- Conviction of an offense requiring mandatory revocation of the license
- Involvement in an accident resulting in death, personal injury, or serious property damage
- Habitually reckless or negligent driving
- Frequent convictions of serious traffic violations
- Mental or physical incompetence to drive
- Allowing fraudulent use of the license
- Conviction of DUI or DWI in another state
- Committing an offense in another state that would result in suspension or revocation in Mississippi
- Obtaining a Mississippi driver's license while under suspension in another state
- Failure to pay child support
Consequences of Driving with a Suspended License
Driving with a suspended license in Mississippi is a serious offense with severe consequences, including fines, jail time, and extended suspension periods.
Fines
Individuals caught driving with a suspended license in Mississippi can face significant fines. The fines typically range from $200 to $500 for a first offense. Subsequent offenses can result in higher fines, potentially exceeding $500.
Jail Time
Violators can also be sentenced to jail time, depending on the circumstances of the offense. For a first offense, the jail time can range from 48 hours to 6 months. For subsequent offenses, the jail time can increase, potentially resulting in a sentence of up to one year.
Extended Suspension Period
Driving with a suspended license can lead to an extended suspension period and additional penalties. For a first offense, the initial suspension period can be extended by an additional six months to one year. For repeat offenders, the extension can be longer, potentially resulting in a permanent revocation of the driver's license in severe cases.
Reinstatement Process
Reinstating a suspended driver's license in Mississippi involves a few steps and specific fees depending on the reason for the suspension.
Paying Reinstatement Fees
The reinstatement fees vary based on the reason for suspension:
- Conviction under Mississippi Implied Consent Law/DUI or Uniform Controlled Substances Act: $175
- Failure to pay child support: $25
- All other suspensions: $100
Payment Methods
Reinstatement fees must be paid with a cashier's check. Cash, money orders, and personal checks are not accepted. Make the check payable to the Department of Public Safety.
Mailing the Payment
For suspensions due to DUI or unpaid tickets, mail the cashier's check to:
Driver Records
P.O. Box 958
Jackson, MS 39205
For suspensions due to an accident, mail the cashier's check to:
Safety Responsibility
P.O. Box 958
Jackson, MS 39205
Required Documentation
If the license was deposited in lieu of bond or if the licensee failed to appear in court, a corrected court abstract from the judge must be provided before reinstatement.
For questions regarding reinstatement, call the MS DSB at (601) 987-1224 and press 1.
Can Someone Drive in Mississippi With a Foreign License?
Visitors with a valid foreign driver's license can drive in Mississippi. According to the regulations, individuals with a valid driver's license from their home country are permitted to drive in Mississippi for up to one year from the date of entry into the U.S.
This provision allows tourists and short-term visitors to drive without obtaining a Mississippi driver's license immediately.
However, it is recommended that foreign drivers carry an International Driving Permit (IDP) in addition to their foreign driver's license. The IDP translates the foreign license into several languages, which can help prevent misunderstandings with local law enforcement and facilitate smoother interactions during routine traffic stops or in case of accidents.
Can a Foreigner Get a Driver's License in Mississippi?
A foreigner can obtain a driver's license in Mississippi, provided they meet the residency requirements and provide the necessary documentation.
Residency Requirements
To apply for a Mississippi driver's license, a foreign national must establish residency in the state. This means they must have a physical address in Mississippi and intend to live there for an extended period. Temporary visitors or tourists are not eligible for a Mississippi driver's license. However, they can drive with their valid foreign license and an IDP.
Required Documentation
Foreign nationals must provide specific documents to apply for a Mississippi driver's license, including:
- Any official immigration papers, such as a valid visa or resident alien card
- A completed and signed application form
- Original birth certificate or any acceptable document proving identity
- Social Security number or an official government correspondence displaying the full nine digits, if applicable
- Two proofs of residency in Mississippi, such as utility bills, bank statements, or a lease agreement
- Other relevant legal documents if going by a new name
Application Process
Foreign nationals seeking a driver's license in Mississippi must follow a specific application process designed to verify their legal status and ensure compliance with state regulations.
Here is the process:
- Visit a Driver's License Station: Foreign nationals must visit a Driver's License Station to submit their application and required documents.
- Pass Required Tests: Applicants must pass the vision, knowledge, and road tests.
- Verification of Legal Status: Documentation of legal status in the U.S. must be verified through Systematic Alien Verification for Entitlements (SAVE)
- Pay Fees: The fees remain the same for foreigners as for residents
The license or identification card will be valid for the applicant's authorized stay or a maximum of four years, whichever is shorter.
Table of Contents
- What Are the Types of Driver's Licenses in Mississippi?
- How To Obtain a Driver's License in Mississippi?
- How To Renew or Replace a Driver's License in Mississippi?
- What Happens if a Driver's License Is Suspended in Mississippi?
- Can Someone Drive in Mississippi With a Foreign License?
- Can a Foreigner Get a Driver's License in Mississippi?