Mississippi drivers are required to complete a drivers license renewal to continue operating motor vehicles in the state. The DMV license renewal steps can be completed with prior research and preparation. Specific expiration dates are contained on regular licenses. If permits are not renewed by this date, late fees could be applied. MS residents should keep in mind the relevant expiration dates for their driving privileges.

The process of replacing a license in the state varies from the renewal procedure. Multiple methods are available for Mississippi permit holders to complete the necessary steps. Military members can also utilize special options for renewing. Applicants should ensure they meet eligibility requirements before starting the official process. Continue reading to learn more about how to retain driving privileges for MS residents.

Eligibility for Drivers License Renewal in Mississippi

Mississippi Drivers License

Note: Drivers can note when they need to complete a drivers license renewal by finding their license expiration date on their current license beside the license number.

MS residents must meet specific eligibility rules in order to renew licenses properly. The drivers license renewal guidelines apply to all drivers living in the state. The following general eligibility rules exist for license renewal applicants:

  • Applicants must be at least 16 years and 6 months old.
  • Applicants must be renewing a Class D or Class R license.
  • Applicants must have a valid Driver’s License.

The MS renewal process also requires specific information to be provided by applicants. Documents proving identity, residency and citizenship status are necessary to verify driver qualifications. To renew drivers license online or in person, residents must offer proof of the following:

  • Citizenship status in the U.S.
  • Social Security Number (SSN)
  • MS residency

The following items can be used when verifying personal information to establish eligibility:

  1. Documents proving Social Security Number (SSN):
    • Social Security Card
    • W-2
    • 1099 form
    • Pay stub
  2. Documents proving citizenship:
    • Valid U.S. Passport
    • Certificate of Citizenship
    • Certificate of Naturalization
    • Birth Certificate
    • Foreign passport with proper endorsement
  3. Documents proving residency:
    • Current license, permit or Mississippi ID card
    • Letter stating applicant’s name and residential address
    • Mail from schools
    • Recent government-issued mail
    • Mortgage documents

When providing proof of Mississippi residency to drivers license offices, P.O. boxes cannot be used. Only permanent addresses are eligible to meet state verification standards.

The following documents establish legal presence of non-U.S. citizens:

  • Permanent Resident Card
  • Employment Authorization Certificate
  • Asylee/Refugee Certificate
  • Valid foreign passport stating U.S. entry

Lastly, when providing drivers license renewal forms as verification, official documents must be submitted.

Instances When You Cannot Renew Your Drivers License in Mississippi

DMV permit renewal in Mississippi cannot be completed under certain circumstances. Adhering to these rules is necessary to ensure only eligible drivers obtain updated licenses. State residents are unable to renew licenses if a driver:

Drivers can check online if they have unpaid violations within the state. Once these tickets are successfully paid, the license renewal process may begin.

How early can you renew your drivers license in Mississippi?

In Mississippi, drivers can renew their licenses up to 6 months in advance. Driving privileges will be uninterrupted if renewal is completed before the established expiration date. Alternatively, renewing permits after the expiration date can result in penalty fees being imposed on applicants

Mississippi DMV License Renewal Options

State residents can renew licenses online or in person. Drivers should understand what is needed to renew drivers licenses before completing this process.

How to Renew Your Drivers License Online

Online renewal is the fastest way for drivers to obtain updated driving privileges. This method is not available on Sundays or from 2 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Saturday. Additionally, online applications cannot be completed on the following holidays:

  • New Years Day
  • Independence Day
  • Thanksgiving Day
  • Christmas Day

To complete the online DMV license renewal process, applications should be filled out via the online portal. The following information must be provided:

  • Driver’s license number
  • Full name
  • Birth date
  • Last 4 digits of applicants’ Social Security Number
  • Valid email address

Next, verification documents should be submitted. Drivers without a photo ID on file with the licensing office are permitted to complete an online application. However, they must visit an office to take a license photo after application approval.

After turning in the necessary documents, drivers should pay driving license renewal fees over the online portal. An additional processing fee is applied to all online transactions.

Upon verification of the application, forms and payment, new licenses are issued. Official cards are mailed within 48 hours to the applicants’ address on file.

How to Renew Your Drivers License in Person

MS drivers wondering, “Where can I renew my drivers license in person?” can visit designated licensing locations within the state.

When visiting license offices, residents can submit drivers license renewal applications, verification documents and fees. Applications should be filled out with accurate and up-to-date information. Drivers can pay for updated licenses using cash, check, credit or debit cards and money orders.

Updated license cards are issued when applications, fees and documents are approved.

Military & Out of State Renewal in Mississippi

Active military members stationed outside of Mississippi are not required to renew drivers permits while completing duty. However, upon returning to the state, expired licenses should be renewed via the regular process.

Mississippi REAL ID Drivers License Renewal

MS residents can choose whether to apply for standard or REAL IDs in the state. REAL IDs can be used for federal purposes throughout the United States.

Unlike standards IDs, these cards allow drivers to fly throughout the country and enter certain federal buildings. Drivers license renewal requirements for REAL IDs involves the submission of additional documentation by applicants.

Mississippi Drivers License Renewal Fees

How much does it cost to renew drivers licenses in Mississippi? The renewal fee for MS drivers licenses are as follows:

  • Class D (regular passenger vehicles): $24

Additionally, a $1.50 processing fee is applied to all online renewals.

Last updated on Tuesday, March 3 2020.