Getting a driver’s license can be tricky. In this article, you will learn how to get your Mississippi driver’s license, commercial driver’s license, and motorcycle license. Let’s discuss the paperwork and the steps you’ll need to take to achieve this goal.
Type of Mississippi Driver’s Licenses
There are different types of driver’s licenses in Mississippi. Below you will find the different types of driver’s licenses that are available in this state.
- Class R – the Class R Mississippi driver’s license is this state’s standard driver’s license. You will need this driver’s license to operate traditional, non-commercial vehicles, such as non-commercial, passenger vehicles.
- Motorcycle Endorsement – this endorsement will be present on your standard MS driver’s license or CDL, and allows you to operate a motorcycle.
- Commercial Driver’s License – Three commercial driver’s license (CDL) classes exist in MS.
- Class A – allows individuals to operate any combination of vehicles that have a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) that is equal to or exceeds 26,001 lbs. or towing a vehicle that is equal to or greater than a GVWR of 10,001 lbs.
- Class B – allows the operation of any single vehicle with a GVWR of at least 26,001 lbs.
- Class C – allows the operation of any single vehicle with a GVWR that does NOT exceed 26,001 lbs. This license is required to operate vehicles designed to transport at least 16 passengers including the driver, and vehicles used to transport hazardous materials that are required to be placarded under the Hazardous Materials Transportation Act.
Mississippi Driver’s License Requirements
Before you rush to your local MS DPS branch, you need to determine whether you are required to apply for a new Mississippi driver’s license.
You must obtain an MS driver’s license if the following apply:
- You are a current resident of Mississippi who has never been licensed
- You are a new resident of Mississippi and want to apply for an MS driver’s license or transfer your out-of-state driver’s license
- You plan to operate any of the non-commercial vehicles listed above
- You have a legal presence in the state of Mississippi (You are NOT required to obtain an MS driver’s license if you have a diplomatic driver’s license that has been issued by the U.S. Department of State).
You are not required to have a Mississippi driver’s license if:
- You are at least 18 years old and visiting MS with a valid out-of-state driver’s license
- You’re an active military member or dependent who is stationed in MS, as long as you have a valid out-of-state driver’s license, and you haven’t established residency in MS
- You operate farm vehicles off public highways
- You ONLY operate registered off-highway vehicles and snowmobiles WITHOUT accessing any public roads (other than crossing the roads).
Applying for Your Mississippi Driver’s License
To obtain an MS driver’s license, you must apply in person at your local Mississippi Department of Public Safety (MS DPS) office. You will need to take the following with you:
- A completed Driver’s License Application (Form DL-41) – If you are under 17 years old, your parent or legal guardian is required to sign this form.
- Proof of your identity, residency, and Social Security number (if you are under 21 years old, you can use your parent’s residency information)
- A passing score on the vision screening
- Payment for the MS driver’s license fee
Be advised that you must pass both the written knowledge and road tests. If you’re a non-U.S. citizen, you must provide additional documentation. You may also be exempt from requiring a Social Security card.
Written Knowledge and Driving Tests
Before you will be issued your MS driver’s license, you are required to pass the written and driving exams. The questions on the written exam are questions based on the information that is found in the Mississippi Driver’s License Manual found here.
Driving Test
During the driving test, your examiner will grade you on your ability to operate a motor vehicle. You will be tested on handling the vehicle, obeying the road rules, and using the proper signals, among other things.
Mississippi Driver’s License Fees
An MS driver’s license fees are listed below:
- $24 for 4 years
- $47 for 8 years
Your payment must be made using cash, debit card, or credit card ONLY. Checks are NOT accepted by the MS DPS. Be advised that different license validity periods and fees apply to teenage drivers.
Driver’s Licenses for Non-U.S. Citizens
If you are a non-U.S. citizen, you are required to meet the standard requirements for obtaining an MS driver’s license, except for providing a Social Security card. Your driver’s license will remain valid as long as you are legally allowed to stay in the U.S., or for the default length of 4 years.
Your application must include the following valid immigration documents:
- Birth certificate translated by a state-operated university or approved translator
- Passport
- I-94 printout
- Proof of domicile
- Alien resident card (if applicable)
Acceptable Identification Documents in Mississippi
In Mississippi, different types of identification documents are acceptable to use when you’re applying for your MS driver’s license, such as your:
- Birth certificate
- Passport
- Armed forced ID cards
- Certificate of Naturalization
- Permanent Resident Card
- Foreign passport with a valid I-94 (the expiration date of the I-94 must be more than 2 months from the date you visit the office)
Examples of true full-name verification documents can include:
- Adoption documents that contain your legal name as a result of the adoption
- A dissolution of marriage document that contains your legal name as a result of the court order
- Certificate of registration document that verifies the formation of a domestic partnership
- Marriage certificate
- Name change documents that contain your legal name both before and after
Examples of acceptable residency documents can include:
- Resident utility bills (this can include your cell phone bill)
- Insurance documents
- California vehicle or vessel title or registration
- A record of a financial institution
Obtaining a Mississippi Driver’s License if You Are Under the Age of 18
In Mississippi, the DPS is responsible for issuing driver’s licenses. As a teenager, you must complete various phases before you can receive your full MS driver’s license.
New Residents of Mississippi
Welcome to the Magnolia State! As a new resident of Mississippi, if you have a valid driver’s license from a different state, you have a maximum of 60 days to transfer it to the MS.
To apply, you need to visit your local DPS branch and:
- Completion of an application form:
- 15 or 16 years old: Application for Mississippi Driver’s License (Form DL-4) – this application must be signed and notarized by both parents
- At least 17 years old: 17 and Older Standard Application (Form DL-41)
- Surrender your out-of-state driver’s license OR complete an Affidavit of Inability to Surrender form (which can be obtained from an MS DPS office.)
- Present your Social Security card
- Submit your original or certified copy of your birth certificate
- Submit a completed education attendance form issued by your school or a notarized DL application Supplement Under 17, if you’re younger than 18 years old. This form must be issued in the last 30 days.
- Prove your MS residency (2 documents are required)
- Pass the written exam and road test (if applicable)
- Pass the vision exam
Mississippi GDL Program
Mississippi implemented a Graduated Driver’s License (GDL) program that prospective teenage drivers are required to complete. The essential milestones teenagers must meet before they receive their MS driver’s license are as follows:
- Limited learner’s permit (optional)
- Learner’s permit
- Intermediate/Provisional license
- Standard driver’s license
Driver’s Education in Mississippi
Although Driver’s Education (Driver’s Ed) is not a requirement in Mississippi, it is beneficial in helping you prepare to obtain your initial driver’s license. You can complete a Driver’s Ed course in a classroom setting or you can choose a more convenient online course.
Age Requirements
- Limited learner’s permit: 14 years old
- Learner’s permit: 15 years old
- Intermediate license: Eligible after attaining your learner’s permit for 1 year
- Regular operator’s license: 17 years old
Mississippi Learner’s Permit
The MS DPS offers 2 types of learner’s permits. You can obtain a limited learner’s permit if you’re 14 years old, or a standard learner’s permit if you’re at least 15 years old.
Limited Learner’s Permit
If you’re 14 years old and you’re currently enrolled in a Driver’s Ed course, you are eligible to apply for a limited learner’s permit in Mississippi.
You must visit your local MS DPS branch and:
- Complete an Application for Mississippi Driver’s License (Form DL-4). Must be notarized by your parent(s).
- Present your Social Security card
- Present your original or certified birth certificate
- Submit a completed education attendance form that is issued by your school or a notarized DL-Application Supplement Under 17 (if you’re younger than 18 years old). This application must be issued within the last 30 days.
- Proof of your Driver’s Ed course enrollment
- Pay the $7 learner’s permit fee
Your MS learner’s permit is only valid in a Driver’s Education vehicle with a Driver’s Ed instructor. Once you turn 15 years old, you must apply for the standard learner’s permit BEFORE you can proceed to the provisional license phase.
Standard Learner’s Permit
If you’ve reached 15 years old, you can skip the limited learner’s permit stage and receive a standard learner’s permit. You need to visit your local MS DPS branch and:
- Complete an application form (must be notarized by your parent(s).
- Present your Social Security card
- Show your original or certified birth certificate
- Submit a completed education attendance form issued by your school or a notarized DL-Application Supplement Under 17, if you’re younger than 18 years old. This form must be issued in the last 30 days.
- Pass the DPS written test and vision exam
- Pay the $7 permit fee
Mississippi Provisional License
After you’ve attained your learner’s permit for 1 year, you are eligible to apply for your intermediate MS driver’s license. You need to visit your local MS DPS office and:
- Complete an application form (your parent(s) must be with you to sign the form
- Provide your learner’s permit
- Present your:
- Social security card
- Original or certified birth certificate
- Proof of your MS residency (at least 2 documents) – your parents can provide MS residency documents if you don’t have your own.
- Submit a completed education attendance form that is issued by your school or a notarized DL-Application Supplement Under 17 (if you’re younger than 18 years old). This form must be issued within the last 30 days
- Pass the driving test
- Pay the $24 intermediate driver’s license fee
Provisional Driver’s License Restrictions
As the holder of an MS provisional license, you’re allowed to operate a motor vehicle unsupervised:
- 6 AM to 10 PM (Sunday to Thursday)
- 6 AM to 11:30 PM (Friday to Saturday)
- At any time IF you are traveling to or from work
At all other times, your parent, guardian, or another licensed driver who is at least 21 years old must supervise you. Your supervising driver must be seated in the passenger seat next to you at all times.
Full Unrestricted Driver’s License
You can apply for your new MS driver’s license once you have turned 17 years old and have attained your intermediate driver’s license for 6 months WITHOUT ANY TRAFFIC CONVICTIONS.
To apply for your MS driver’s license, you need to visit your local MS DPS branch and:
- Submit a completed Application for Mississippi Driver’s License (if you’re at least 17 years old, you must complete the 17 and Older Regular Application (Form DL-41)
- Submit your provisional license
- Present your Social Security card
- Provide your original or certified birth certificate
- Provide proof of your MS residency (proof of residency must be in the name of the applicant or the applicant’s spouse. If the applicant is under 21 years old, they may use proof of residency in their parent’s name).
- Pay the $24 driver’s license fee
Married, Divorced, or Name Change?
If you have changed your name as a result of a marriage, divorce, adoption, or a different reason that makes the name on your documents different from the name on your identification card or documents you provided, you will be asked to provide proof of name change documents when you apply for your MS driver’s license. Examples of documents that establish your true full name can include the following:
- A marriage certificate
- A dissolution of marriage or domestic partnership document that contains the legal name as a result of the court action
- Adoption documents that contain the legal names as a result of the adoption
- A name change document that contains the legal name of both before and after the name change
- A certificate, declaration, or registration document that verifies the formation of a domestic partnership
Does the REAL ID Act Impact Residents of Mississippi?
The Mississippi DPS complies with the REAL ID Act of 2005. This means it provides first-time driver’s license applicants with REAL ID-compliant driver’s licenses. These licenses meet the federal identification requirements that are required to enter federal buildings and board domestic commercial flights. Without a REAL ID, you must bring your passport or birth certificate to do any of the following listed above after May 3, 2023.
Is Obtaining a REAL ID Mandatory in Mississippi?
Obtaining a REAL ID is optional in Mississippi. If you have valid documents of the above-listed TSA documents, you can use them to pass TSA checkpoints at airport terminals nationwide and visit a secure federal building or military installation at any time.
If you will not be boarding a domestic flight or visiting a secure federal facility or military base, you are not required to obtain a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or identification card.
You aren’t required to have a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or identification card to perform any of the following actions:
- Vote
- Drive
- Apply for or receive federal benefits (Social Security Administration (SSA), Veterans Affairs, etc.)
- Enter a federal facility that does not require ID (such as a post office)
- Visit a hospital or receive life-saving services
How Do You Prepare to Apply for a REAL ID Card?
There are different steps you must take to apply for a REAL ID card in the state of Mississippi. Although these types of ID cards are not required, it’s good to have in many situations.
To successfully apply for a REAL ID card, you must take the following steps:
- Provide proof of identity (certified birth certificate or passport)
- Provide 2 Mississippi residency documents
- Present proof of your SSN, if eligible (you can request a replacement social security card online
Applying for a Commercial Driver’s License in Mississippi
Have you ever seen a commercial vehicle on the highway and told yourself that you’re going to be a truck driver when you grow up? Well, now’s your chance! To drive a big 18-wheeler or another type of commercial vehicle, you will need to obtain a commercial driver’s license (CDL).
The process for obtaining a CDL is more involved than obtaining a standard Mississippi license since commercial vehicles are much larger and more difficult to operate than standard cars and trucks. Nationally, CDL matters are regulated by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). In Mississippi, the licensing process is overseen by the MS Department of Public Safety (DPS).
Who Can Get a Mississippi CDL?
To receive your CDL in Mississippi, you are required to have a valid, non-CDL driver’s license. Per FMCSA regulations, applicants who are under 21 years old will be restricted to driving commercial vehicles with Mississippi ONLY.
If you currently have a CDL from a different state and want to transfer it to MS, you must schedule an appointment with your local MS DPS office and:
- Bring the following documents:
- Your current, out-of-state commercial driver’s license
- Your Social Security card
- Proof of Mississippi residency
- Lease agreements/mortgage papers
- Car registration or titles
- Utility bills
- Pay the $29 CDL fee
- Pay all applicable endorsement fees and/or additional license fees (if applicable)
If you have an out-of-state HAZMAT endorsement and want to transfer the endorsement to Mississippi, you must retake the written exam and submit fingerprints for a federal background check. Be advised that transfer CDLs must be requested within 30 days of establishing residency in Mississippi.
Mississippi Commercial Learner’s Permits
Before you can obtain your MS CDL, you must receive your MS commercial learner’s permit (CLP). Although it is not required by the FMCSA or the MS DPS, it is recommended that you complete a CDL training course to help you prepare for the upcoming exams you need to take.
When you’re ready, you need to schedule an appointment with your local MS DPS office and be prepared to:
- Bring all relevant medical paperwork
- Pay the $16 CLP fee
- Complete the appropriate application for the type of CDL you want
- Pass the vision test
- Take all written exams (including any written tests that are required for endorsements)
- Agree to a driving record check
Additional paperwork that proves your U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent status may also be required. You can contact your local MS DPS office for more information. After passing the required tests and paying the applicable fees, you will be issued your MS CLP. Congratulations!
Mississippi CLP Restrictions
Your CLP will be valid for 6 months. The MS DPS allows you to renew your CLP 1 time over 2 years. You must attain your CLP for a certain time before you will be able to complete your skills test to obtain your full CDL. Federal laws mandate a holding period of at least 14 days, but this timeframe may be different for you. Make sure you check with your local DPS office to confirm what the holding period is in Mississippi. In the meantime, the FMCSA requires all commercial learner’s permit holders to operate on public roads ONLY, and you must be accompanied by a full CDL holder.
Obtaining a Mississippi Commercial Driver’s License
Once you’ve had your CLP for the specified time and you’re comfortable enough driving the vehicle, you can complete your CDL skills test to obtain your full CDL. You can complete your skills test at an MS DPS office or through a third party. You will be tested on:
- Pre-trip inspections
- Basic vehicle control
- On-road driving
You must arrange to complete your CDL skills test in the same type of vehicle you into to operate with your MS CDL, or you may have a restriction placed on your license. You will also need a CDL holder with the same class of license or higher to accompany you to the skills test.
You need to make sure you bring the following:
- Your MS CLP
- The application you completed when applying for your permit
- A valid medical card
- Payment for the $55 CDL fee
Once you pass the tests and pay the applicable fees, the MS DPS will issue your CDL. Be advised that MS CDLs are valid for 5 years. Once this license has expired, you must renew it.
Mississippi CDL Fees
The MS DPS currently charges the following for CDLs and services that are related to CDLs:
- Commercial learner’s permit: $16
- CDL application fee: $29
- Commercial driver’s license: $55
- Endorsements: $5 each
Mississippi Military CDL Waivers
The FMCSA developed a program to help current or recently discharged service members obtain a CDL by waiving the skills test requirement. To qualify, you must apply within a specific time of leaving the military position where you were responsible for operating the same class of commercial vehicle you’re applying to drive with your CDL. You also must NOT have any serious traffic violations in your driving history. You can contact your local MS DPS office to address any questions or concerns you may have.
Mississippi CDL Medical Requirements
All CDL holders must endure a medical examination BEFORE they will receive their CDL. You must locate a nationally registered physician to help you complete a Medical Examiner’s Certificate (Form MCSA-5876). You must have this paperwork before you can apply for a CLP.
The MS DPS allows CDL applicants to submit their Medical Examiner’s Certificates in person or online. The MS DPS online medical verification website charges a fee of $2.50 per submission. You can check the status of your application online here.
You must also complete a process called self-certification where you declare the type of driving you intend to do with your CDL to the MS DPS.
Mississippi CDL Classifications
The FMCSA established different classifications of CDLs, each of which gives the license holder permission to operate different types of vehicles.
Current CDL classifications include:
- Class A CDL—Allows you to drive a combination of vehicles that weigh over a certain amount, such as a tractor-trailer.
- Class B CDL—Permits you to drive a single vehicle that weighs over a certain amount, like a box truck.
- Class C CDL—Applies to all other types of commercial vehicles over a certain weight not covered by either Class A or Class B CDL.
The type of CDL you’re applying for may dictate the types of written or skills exams you have to take and how much you must pay for your commercial driver’s license.
Mississippi CDL Endorsements & Restrictions
An endorsement is an additional certification you can add to your CDL that allows you to operate a greater number of vehicles. You can receive an endorsement by completing additional tests and paying additional fees.
Some endorsements you may be able to receive from the MS DPS will allow you to operate the following:
- HAZMAT vehicles
- Double or triple trailers
- School buses or other passenger vehicles
- Tank vehicles
Be advised that you could have a restriction placed on your CDL which limits the number of vehicles you can operate. You may receive a restriction if you:
- Couldn’t operate the proper vehicle at your skills test
- Can’t operate a manual transmission
- Can’t operate an air brake system
You can have a restriction removed from your CDL by completing additional tests or paying extra fees.
Federal Self-Certification Requirements
You must self-certify your type of vehicle operating with the MS DPS, meaning you are required to self-certify one of the following driving categories:
- Non-excepted interstate
- Excepted interstate
- Non-excepted intrastate
- Excepted intrastate
Applying for a Mississippi Motorcycle License
If you’re ready to hit the road on your motorcycle and enjoy scenic views, you’ll first need to obtain a motorcycle license.
New Residents of Mississippi
As a new MS resident, you have 60 days to transfer your out-of-state motorcycle license. If you currently have a motorcycle license or endorsement, the MS DPS may waive your motorcycle written and skills exams. The process for transferring your out-of-state motorcycle license is similar to transferring your out-of-state driver’s license to Mississippi.
Mississippi Motorcycle Rider Eligibility
To obtain permission to ride your motorcycle in Mississippi, you must add a motorcycle endorsement to your MS driver’s license, or a motorcycle-only license.
To be eligible for a motorcycle endorsement, you must:
- Be at least 17 years old
- Already have your MS driver’s license (you may also be in the process of applying for an MS driver’s license or MS motorcycle-only license)
- Pass the written exam (you can earn your motorcycle permit at this time)
- Pass the motorcycle road test
- Pay the appropriate endorsement or motorcycle license fee(s)
Mississippi Written Motorcycle Exam
To earn your MS motorcycle endorsement or license, you need to pass the motorcycle written exam. To do so, you must visit an MS DPS office. You should call ahead and ask if that particular office offers motorcycle testing. You will also need your MS driver’s license or proof of application for an MS driver’s license. Be advised that knowledge exam fees may apply. You can ask your local MS DPS branch for more information.
Once you pass your written exam, you can proceed directly to the motorcycle road test or receive your MS motorcycle permit. Although motorcycle permits are NOT required in Mississippi, it’s a good idea to practice your skills before hitting the open road. If you’ve never obtained an MS driver’s license before, you must also earn your standard MS license.
Mississippi Motorcycle Permits
If you decide to complete the licensing process, you can spend extra time practicing with your motorcycle permit before you take the road test. To earn your motorcycle permit through the MS DPS, you need to visit an office that offers motorcycle testing and pass the written exam and pay the $1 permit fee.
MS motorcycle permits come with additional restrictions. Riders who have a motorcycle permit must ride alongside a rider who is at least 21 years old and has a motorcycle endorsement on their license. You can contact your local MS DPS office and ask about extra rules you need to follow during this time. You can choose to take the riding test on the same day you earn your learner’s permit.
Mississippi Motorcycle Road Test & Endorsement
After passing the written exam, you must pass the road test. You can complete the skills test at the same appointment you schedule to complete your written test, or at a separate appointment after you practice with your motorcycle permit. You must bring either your MS driver’s license or proof of application for an MS driver’s license.
You will also need to pay all applicable motorcycle endorsement fees. Additional road test fees may apply. Once you pass the required tests, you’ll be allowed to legally ride your motorcycle once you are issued your motorcycle license or endorsement. Congratulations!
Mississippi Motorcycle Endorsement Fees
You can choose to either have a motorcycle endorsement added to your current MS driver’s license or obtain a separate motorcycle license. The MS DPS currently charges the following for these services:
- Motorcycle permit: $1
- Motorcycle endorsement: $5
Mississippi DPS Locations
There are different DPS locations in Mississippi where you can obtain an MS driver’s license, commercial driver’s license, or a motorcycle license or endorsement.
Mississippi Department of Public Safety – Jackson Branch
1900 E Woodrow Wilson Ave
Jackson, MS 39216
(601) 987-1212
Monday – Friday (8 AM – 5 PM)
Saturday and Sunday (Closed)
Mississippi Department of Public Safety – Greenwood Branch
1301 Cypress Ave
Greenwood, MS 38930
(662) 453-4515
Monday – Friday (8 AM – 5 PM)
Saturday and Sunday (Closed)
Mississippi Department of Public Safety – Biloxi Branch
16741 Highway 67
Biloxi, MS 39532
(228) 396-7400
Monday – Friday (8 AM – 5 PM)
Saturday and Sunday (Closed)
Mississippi Department of Public Safety – Pearl Branch
3851 Highway 468 W
Pearl, MS 39208
(601) 420-6342
Monday – Friday (8 AM – 5 PM)
Saturday and Sunday (Closed)
You did it! You now know everything you need to know to obtain your driver’s license, commercial driver’s license, or motorcycle license or endorsement.