The Mississippi Department of Public Safety Driver Service Bureau oversees driver licensing, vehicle registrations, and title and registration duties in Mississippi. Here is an overview of key services:
Forms
The MS DPS provides forms for license and registration needs, including:
- Driver’s License Application (DPS-11)
- Vehicle Registration Application (77-901)
- Duplicate Title Request (77-003)
- Change of Address Notification (77-037)
Download official MS DPS forms from their website for accuracy.
Services
Administration |
Driver Service Bureau (Driver License) |
Highway Patrol |
Bureau of Investigation |
Bureau of Narcotics |
Homeland Security |

Registration Renewal Mississippi Department of Public Safety Driver Service Bureau
Mississippi vehicle registrations must be renewed annually. Renewal notices are mailed out 4-8 weeks prior to expiration.
Registrations can be renewed online, by mail, at DPS offices, municipal tax collectors, or tag agencies. Have your renewal notice, insurance, and mileage available.
Appointment Scheduling
The MS DPS offers appointments for driving exams at select locations which can help reduce wait times.
Book road test appointments online in advance when available. Be sure to verify what documents to bring.
Driver Exam Stations
There are over 100 DPS driver license offices in MS that conduct knowledge and skills testing. Study the driver guide and take practice tests.
Bring proper ID, glasses if required, and your completed application. Both exams are administered on a walk-in basis.
2024 Mississippi Driver’s Manual
The 2024 Mississippi Driver’s Manual covers laws, road signs, licensing steps, and safe driving tips.
Read the entire manual before taking your knowledge test. Review sections on traffic signals, pavement markings, and right-of-way rules prior to your road test.
License Renewal Mississippi Department of Public Safety Driver Service Bureau
MS driver’s licenses are valid for 4 years and expire on your birthday. Renewal reminders are mailed out 1 month before expiration.
Licenses can be renewed up to 6 months prior to expiration online, by mail, or in-person. Updated identity documents are required.
License Plates
All vehicles registered in Mississippi must display current license plates on the rear bumper only. Standard plates have blue characters on a white background.
Obtain required MS plates by providing your title or registration and insurance verification to the DPS. Specialty plates cost extra fees.
Contact DPS
Find contact information for your local MS DPS driver license office on their website. You can also call (601) 987-1212 for questions.
Office hours vary but are typically Monday-Friday from 8am-5pm. Some locations offer extended hours and Saturday availability.
5 Key Mississippi DPS Questions
1. How do I transfer my out-of-state license to Mississippi?
Apply for a MS license within 60 days of becoming a resident. Bring your old license, proof of residency, and identity documents.
2. Does Mississippi require emissions testing?
No, Mississippi does not require any emissions or smog testing to register vehicles.
3. What’s the penalty for late registration renewal?
Registrations renewed after expiration incur a $20 penalty plus an additional $5 per month late.
4. Can I hold both a MS driver’s license and ID card?
Yes, Mississippi allows holding both a driver’s license and identification card at the same time.
5. How much are replacement license plates in MS?
It costs $3 per plate to replace lost, stolen, or mutilated Mississippi license plates.