Frequently Asked Questions

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Frequently Asked Questions

Am I required to take a motorcycle training course?
No, you are not required to take a motorcycle drivers ed course. Nonetheless, you are encouraged to enroll in motorcycle training school if you have little or no experience driving a motorcycle. If you would like to take a safety course when getting a motorcycle license, you can do so through the Motorcycle Safety Foundation, which offers programs throughout the country.

For more information: How to Apply for a Motorcycle License in Mississippi

Am I required to wear a helmet while riding a motorcycle?
Yes, in the state of Mississippi, you must wear a helmet at all times when operating a motorcycle. Both the driver and passenger must use a helmet. Since head injury is the leading cause of death in motorcycle accidents, this law was enacted to provide added protection and safety for all motorcycle riders on the road.

For more information: How to Apply for a Motorcycle License in Mississippi

Can I renew my commercial drivers license online?
The Mississippi Department of Public Safety does not allow commercial drivers to renew their license online. You must make a visit to a DMV branch in your area to complete your drivers license renewal process. You will need to have all proper documentation and payment ready for any applicable fees.

For more information: How to Renew a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) in Mississippi

Can I take the DMV written test online?
No, the Mississippi Department of Public Safety requireslearning permitapplicants to complete the written knowledge exam in person at a local office. You will be tested on topics such as road rules, traffic laws and safe driving in the state. This exam is a required portion of the application process when you are getting a learner s permit. Before you can advance to an intermediate license, you must first obtain a learners permit. You can start applying as young as 14.

For more information: Learner’s Permits for Beginner Drivers in Mississippi

Can I use my state CDL anywhere in the United States?
If you have obtained anMS commercial driving license for interstate commerce purposes, you are authorized to use your license across the country. However, you must adhere to the road rules and regulations of the states you are driving through. To apply for a CDL license and self-certify as interstate commerce, you must be at least 21 years old. Find a DPS branch near you to begin the process of getting a CDL license.

For more information: Mississippi Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Application

Do I need a motorcycle license to ride a scooter or moped?
In Mississippi, if you have a motor-driven cycle, then you must apply for a motorcycle endorsement.Part of your requirements will entail passing a written drivers test, as well as an on-road skills test. To get started with the process, visit a nearby Department of Public Safety branch and bring all required documents with you. In person, you will be asked to fill out a 17 or older application and have payment ready for any necessary fees.

For more information: How to Apply for a Motorcycle License in Mississippi

Do I need to take a drivers ed course?
If you are 14 and applying for a limited learners permit, you are required to show proof that you are enrolled in a driversed course. This course must be from the school you are currently attending. To find out more, contact the Mississippi Department of Revenue, the Motor Vehicle Licensing Bureau at 601-923-7100. You can also visit a DPS office in your area and speak to a DMV agent.

For more information: Learner’s Permits for Beginner Drivers in Mississippi

How can I get a veteran designation on my ID card?
If you are an eligible veteran, you can request to have this specific designation when filling out an ID card application.To qualify, present a certified copy of your discharge document from the MS Veterans Board at your local DPS office. You will need to bring this documentation in person, along with your current identification card (if applicable).

For more information: How to Apply for a Mississippi Identification Card

How do I apply for a commercial drivers license?
If you re wondering how to get a CDL license, you will need to bring the following to your local DPS branch:
  • A completed driver s license application
  • Your current driver s license
  • Your Social Security Card
  • Self-Certification stating your type of CDL operation
  • Proof of MS residency
  • CDL Medical Card
  • Payment for any applicable fees

To obtain a CDL license, you must pass both a written drivers test and a road skills test. If you would like to obtain a license with a HAZMAT endorsement, further testing is required.

For more information: Mississippi Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Application

How do I apply for a learner’s permit?
Mississippi follows a Graduated Driver Licensing program that is composed of the following stages:
  • Learner s Permit (Limited Learner s Permit for those who are 14)
  • Intermediate License
  • Standard Driver s License

If you are at least 14, you can begin the process of applying for a limited learner s permit. You can apply in person at your local DMV by presenting proof of a driversed course completion from your school, and other proper documentation. You are required to pass a written knowledge exam and a vision test.

Note: With a limited learner s permit, you are only allowed to drive a driversed vehicle in the presence of a driversed instructor. You must also be enrolled in a driversed course.

Once you reach 15, you can apply for a 15-year-old permit, which you will be required to hold for a full year before you are allowed to take a road skills test.

After maintaining yourMississippidrivers permit for at least one year, you can then apply for an intermediate license. Once you have held your intermediate license for six months and have turned 17, you can then apply for a standard driver s license.

For more information: Learner’s Permits for Beginner Drivers in Mississippi

How do I apply for a motorcycle license?
In order to get anMS motorcycle license endorsement, visit your local DPS office and be prepared to complete the following:
  • Pass a written drivers test
  • Pass an on-cycle road skills test
  • Present the proper documentation
  • Have payment ready for any applicable fees

Before taking your on-cycle road skills test, the DMV will ask you to present proof of vehicle insurance, along with a valid inspection sticker.

For more information: How to Apply for a Motorcycle License in Mississippi

How do I get a duplicate ID card?
If you need to request a MS duplicate ID card, you can do so online or in person. If you recently changed your residential address, you will be unable to complete your duplicate request online. That s because you will be required to visit a DMV office to change your address before you can ask for a duplicate ID. If replacing your ID online, be aware that the transaction through the MS DPS website comes with a convenience fee.

For more information: How to Apply for a Mississippi Identification Card

How do I renew my driving permit?
If you need to renew your MS learning permit, visit your local DPS branch and re-submit the necessary documentation from when you first applied. However, if you are 15 and have maintained your learners permit for at least a year, you can then apply for an intermediate license. After six months, and once you have turned 17, you can then request a full, standard drivers license.

In order to be issued a full, standard driver s license, be prepared to take a road skills test at the time of application.

For more information: Learner’s Permits for Beginner Drivers in Mississippi

How do I renew my ID card?
For your convenience, you can renew ID cards either online or in person. To renew your ID card online, have the below information at hand:
  • Your ID card number
  • Your full name
  • Your date of birth
  • A credit card for payment

Whether you choose to renew your identification card online or in person, you will need to make payment for the $14 renewal fee (may vary).

For more information: How to Apply for a Mississippi Identification Card

How do I renew my medical report for a commercial license?
To renew your medical report, you must visit a licensed physician, who will complete a thorough examination to determine if you remain in a healthy and stable condition to operate a CDL vehicle. If your medical report receives an all-clear by your physician, they may then submit your paperwork to the Mississippi Department of Public Safety, so that your CDL license remains in good standing. Visit the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) website to read more about national CDL medical requirements.

For more information: Mississippi Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Application

How do I renew my motorcycle license?
To renew motorcycle drivers license, the state of Mississippi provides three options: online, in person or by mail. To complete the renewal online, visit the MS DPS website and follow the instructions on the screen. Only military members and college students may renew by mail. Visit your local DPS office to renew motorcycle license in person. Make sure to bring your current Mississippi drivers license with you.

A renewal payment must be made in cash or by check in person. No other form of payment will be accepted.

For more information: How to Apply for a Motorcycle License in Mississippi

How does a military member obtain a motorcycle license?
If you are a military service member, you have to make an in-person visit to your nearby Department of Public Safety office, so you can begin the application process. In order to get a MS motorcycle drivers license, you will need to pass both a written knowledge exam and an on-road cycle test. You must also bring any required documentation with you and payment for necessary fees. However, if you are renewing motorcycle license, the state of Mississippi allows military personnel to renew by mail.

For more information: How to Apply for a Motorcycle License in Mississippi

How long do I need my learners permit before I can get my drivers license?
Once you have completed several of the GDL stages and obtained an intermediate license, you will need to hold it for six months before you can apply for a standard license. Additionally, you must be 17.

When obtaining an intermediate license, you must have held your learner s permit for at least 12 months. You will need to present all proper documentation, as well as payment for any applicable fees. Before an intermediate license can be issued to you, you must also have passed a road skills test.

For more information: Learner’s Permits for Beginner Drivers in Mississippi

How long will it take to get my new ID card?
When applying for ID cards,residents will be issued a new one at that point in time. You will need to bring proper documentation and the correct fee to your local DPS office.Only cash or check is accepted as a form of payment at the DMV.

For more information: How to Apply for a Mississippi Identification Card

How often do I need to renew my CDL license?
To avoid any unwanted penalties, a CDL driver must renew their license before its expiration date. Part of the renewal process requires commercial drivers to complete a physical exam, and visit a local Department of Public Safety office with their current license to fill out a CDL application. You may also need to submit payment for any applicable fees, along with your recent medical certifications.

For more inforrmation: How to Renew a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) in Mississippi

If I’m out of state and lost my ID, how can I get a new one?
In the event that you have a lost ID card outside of Mississippi, you can request a duplicate online through the MS DPS website. When completing this online transaction, you must have an unchanged residential address. If you are no longer residing at the address you have on file with the DMV, then you will need to visit a nearby branch to update this information. You will need to have an up-to-date address in the system before you can request a duplicate identification card.

For more information: How to Apply for a Mississippi Identification Card

Is there a minimum age I have to be to get a commercial drivers license?
To apply for a CDL license that operates intrastate commerce, you must be at least 18. However, you must be at least 21if you would like to drive in interstate commerce (across state lines). All CDL license applicants will need to pass a number of tests that include both a written knowledge exam and a commercial road skills test.

For more information: Mississippi Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Application

What are the age restrictions to ride a motorcycle?
If you are a minor who has never obtained a MS motorcycle license before, you will be required to apply for a motorcycle permit first. In order to get a regular operator license, you must be 17 or older. If you have an out-of-state drivers motorcycle license, you are allowed to transfer it to the state of Mississippi and have both your written knowledge test and road skills test waived.

To begin applying for a motorcycle license, visit your local Department of Public Safety office.

For more information: How to Apply for a Motorcycle License in Mississippi

What are the available commercial license endorsements?
In Mississippi, there are seven different commercial license endorsements. Depending on the type of CDL vehicle you would like to operate, you may have any of the following listed on your driver s license:
  • Class S To operate a school bus and transport students.
  • Class N To operate tank vehicles
  • Class K To operate a vehicle not equipped with air brakes
  • Class H To operate a vehicle transporting Hazardous Materials
  • Class P To operate a vehicle carrying passengers
  • Class X To operate a vehicle that represents hazmat and tank vehicle endorsements

When applying for a Mississippi commercialdrivers license, part of your requirements consist of submitting a Medical Card. The MS DPS now provides the option to complete this step online. Visit the MS DPS website for further information.

For more information: Mississippi Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Application

What are the fees associated with an ID card?
The fee is $14 to get ID cards for the first time in Mississippi. If renewing your identification card, the same fee applies. This cost is subject to change without notice. When applying for an ID card at your local Department of Public Safety office, you must bring either cash or check with you, as these are the only forms of payment accepted in person.

For more information: How to Apply for a Mississippi Identification Card

What are the learners permit restrictions during my first year?
In Mississippi, you are not authorized to drive until you have passed the road skills test and obtained an intermediate license. With an intermediate license, the restrictions are as follows:
  • Unsupervised driving is permitted from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday through Thursday, these hours are expanded to 11:30 p.m.
  • Supervised driving must take place at all other times with a licensed driver who is 21 or older, a parent or a legal guardian. The adult passenger must be seated next to the driver with an intermediate license.

For more information: Learner’s Permits for Beginner Drivers in Mississippi

What are the medical certifications required to obtain a CDL?
The Mississippi Department of State requires CDL license applicants to submit their medical card, in addition to a Medical Self-Certification form. To make the process more convenient for you, the MS DPS website now allows you to submit a CDL Medical Card Submission Application electronically. You must also notify the DPS about the type of commercial vehicle operation you expect to drive with your CDL license.

Since 2014, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) now makes it mandatory to have medical cards issued with a National Registry Number. If you would like to learn more, visit the FMCSA website.

For more information: Mississippi Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Application

What are the penalties for getting a traffic ticket with a driver’s permit?
A young driver who has been issued a traffic ticket price may face high fines, as well as late fees if you fail to pay for your citation on time. If you committed a serious offense, your penalty may become more severe. Depending on the violation, you may have an immediate drivers license suspension. For example, the state will suspend your license if you are guilty of the following:

For more information: Learner’s Permits for Beginner Drivers in Mississippi

What are the requirements to operate a three-wheel motorcycle?
If you would like to operate a three-wheel motorcycle, you will need to get a separate license endorsement. Other requirements will include the following:
  • Passing a written knowledge test
  • Passing an on-cycle road test

When applying for this endorsement, make sure to bring any proper identification with you to your local DPS office, such as these listed below:

  • Your Social Security card
  • A completed 17 or older application
  • Your state-certified Birth Certificate
  • Proof of MS residency

For more information: How to Apply for a Motorcycle License in Mississippi

What documents do I need to get a learner’s permit?
Depending on which stage of GDL you are applying for, the documents you must present to your DMV vary.

If you are getting drivers permits or an Intermediate License, you must have the following on hand:

  • Your birth certificate (either an original or certified copy)
  • A completed Application for Mississippi Driver’s License (if you are 15 or 16) or a 17 and Older Driver’s License Application
  • Social Security card
  • Proof of drivers ed completion
  • Certificate of School Attendance form from your school if you are under 18.
  • Two proof of residence

For more information: Learner’s Permits for Beginner Drivers in Mississippi

What documents do I need to get a motorcycle license?
When obtaining a Mississippi motorcycle drivers license, some of the required documents you need to present include:
  • Your Social Security Card
  • A completed 17 or older application
  • Your state-certified Birth Certificate
  • Proof of MS residency

Gather these documents prior to making your way to a nearby DPS office. At the time of application, you will also need to submit payment for your license. Only cash will be accepted.

For more information: How to Apply for a Motorcycle License in Mississippi

What exams do I need to pass to get a motorcycle license?
Getting a motorcycle license will require you to pass the following exams:
  • A written knowledge test
  • An on-cycle road test

Your on-cycle road test may take place in an off-street section or in a traffic location. The written knowledge exam will test you on motorcycle safe driving, road rules and operation of the vehicle. To be best prepared, take a practice test ahead of time.

If you have an out-of-state license, you may have these tests waived.

For more information: How to Apply for a Motorcycle License in Mississippi

What happens to my commercial driver license if I am convicted of a DUI?
A commercial driver who is convicted of driving under the influence will face an immediate drivers license suspension of a 12-month period if it is your first offense. You will be required to notify your employer about your lost driving privileges, and you will need to abide by all the terms of your suspension notice.

Part of these requirements includes paying a reinstatement fee, which can be made payable to the Department of Public Safety, and sent to the address below:

Department of Public Safety PO Box 958 Jackson, MS 39205

For more information: Mississippi Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Application

What is an ID card?
An identification card is a government-issued document, mainly used by non-drivers for identity purposes. Your Mississippi DMV ID card can be used for matters such as to enter an official government building, to open up a bank account in your name, or to make select purchases. If you would like to obtain an ID card in the state of Mississippi, simply visit a nearby DPS branch to begin the process. Make sure to have payment ready for the identification fee of $14 (may vary).

For more information: How to Apply for a Mississippi Identification Card

What is the passing score for a written test?
In the event that you fail the exam, you are required to retake it at a later date. The exam will test you on matters such as Mississippi s road rules and safe driving.

In order to be best prepared for the test, review the Mississippi Driver s Manual carefully. Questions will be collected from the manual itself.

For more information: Learner’s Permits for Beginner Drivers in Mississippi

What test do I need to take for my learners permit?
If you are applying for aMSdriving permit (between the ages of 14 and 15), you must pass the following exams:
  • A written knowledge exam
  • A vision test

If you are applying for an intermediate license (between the ages of 16 and 17), you must pass the following exam:

  • A road skills test

Payment for any applicable fees will also be asked for at the time of application. All the aforementioned must be taken in person at a local Department of Public Safety office.

For more information: Learner’s Permits for Beginner Drivers in Mississippi

What tests do I have to take to obtain a CDL?
If you are an applicant who would like to get a license to drive commercial, there are a few tests you must take and pass before you can become an authorized CDL operator. Some of these tests will include the following:
  • A written knowledge test
  • A CDL road skills test

Your CDL skills exam will test you on these crucial elements:

  • Pre-trip inspection
  • Basic vehicle control
  • On-road driving

Depending on the type of endorsement you are applying for, additional testing may be required. For example, those who would like to obtain a HAZMAT endorsement will need to complete a background check and submit fingerprints for a background check.

For more information: Mississippi Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Application

When does my ID card expire?
A Mississippi ID card is good for a period of four years. This length of time is extended to 10 years for individuals who are legally blind. Prior to the expiration of your ID card, you will be required to request a renewal. In Mississippi, you can renew your identification card online or in person. If renewing online, have your ID card number on hand, as you will be unable to complete your transaction without it.

For more information: How to Apply for a Mississippi Identification Card

Where can I obtain an ID card?
Residents can apply for ID cards at any Mississippi Department of Public Safety office. During your visit, you will need to provide the documents listed below:
  • Your Social Security card
  • Your Birth Certificate, either an original or certified copy
  • Proof of MS residency

You will also need to bring in payment for the $14 ID fee. This fee is subject to change without notice. Payment is only accepted in the form of cash or check.

For more information: How to Apply for a Mississippi Identification Card

Who can sign for my permit or license if I am under 18?
If you are 15 or 16 years old, you must have a parent or legal guardian sign your Application for Mississippi Driver’s License. If your parents are divorced, then the one who has custody is required to provide their signature.

If you are 17 or older, you will need to fill out a different form, the 17 and Older Driver’s License Application. This application must be presented when you are obtaining a learner s permit, an intermediate license or a regular driver s license. In addition to a few, personal questions, you will also be asked whether or not you would like to register to vote when applying for your license.

For more information: Learner’s Permits for Beginner Drivers in Mississippi