The Gulfport DMV Location and Hours

The Mississippi Department of Public Safety Driver Services office in Gulfport is located at 2500 25th Avenue, Gulfport, MS 39501. This is the main location where you can renew your driver's license, get a state ID, take a written or road test, or handle most other driver services transactions.

Hours are typically Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., though the office closes for state holidays. Call ahead at (228) 896-6500 to confirm current hours or ask about wait times before you go. Mississippi DMV offices do not take appointments, so you arrive and wait your turn.

Gulfport's office serves Harrison County and the surrounding coastal area. If you live outside Gulfport but in Harrison County, this is your closest state-run location. If you are in a different county, you may have a closer office — check the Mississippi DMV website for the full list of Driver Services locations statewide.

Key Takeaways

  • The Gulfport DMV is at 2500 25th Avenue and is open Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., with no appointments available.
  • You will need a valid form of ID, proof of residency, and your Social Security number for most transactions.
  • Road tests are offered at this location, but you must schedule them in advance by phone or online through the Mississippi DMV website.
  • If you are renewing by mail or online, you do not need to visit the office in person, and many renewals are available through both methods.
  • Bring original documents or certified copies — photocopies and digital images are not accepted for most transactions.

Documents You Need for a Driver's License or Renewal

For a new driver's license or a renewal, bring your current license or state ID if you have one. You will also need proof of your Social Security number — an original Social Security card, W-2, or 1099 form works. A birth certificate or passport serves as proof of identity and date of birth.

Proof of Mississippi residency is required. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days and showing your name and current address. A government check or tax return also works. Do not bring a photocopy — bring the original or a certified copy.

If you are changing your name, bring a certified copy of the document that changed it: a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. If you are a non-citizen, bring your passport and visa or other immigration documentation. The Gulfport office staff can tell you exactly what form of immigration document they need if you call ahead.

Road Tests and Written Tests at the Gulfport Location

The Gulfport DMV office administers both written knowledge tests and behind-the-wheel road tests. Road tests must be scheduled in advance — you cannot walk in and take one the same day. Schedule online through the Mississippi DMV website or call (228) 896-6500 to book a time slot.

Written tests are also given at this location and can often be taken the same day you arrive, though wait times vary. Bring your learner's permit and two forms of ID. The test is computer-based and covers Mississippi traffic laws and road signs. You must score at least 80 percent to pass.

For the road test, bring your learner's permit, proof of insurance, and a vehicle that is registered, insured, and in safe working condition. The vehicle must have working brakes, lights, wipers, and mirrors. A staff member will ride with you for about 15 to 20 minutes on local roads. You must demonstrate basic driving skills, parking, and knowledge of traffic laws.

Online and Mail Renewals to Avoid the Office

If your driver's license is not expired and you have no medical or legal restrictions, you may be able to renew online or by mail without visiting the Gulfport office. Online renewal is available through the Mississippi DMV website for most drivers whose licenses are still valid. The fee is lower than in-person renewal, and you receive your new license by mail within 7 to 10 business days.

Mail renewal is also an option for some drivers. You will need to send in your current license, a completed process form, and the renewal fee. The form is available on the Mississippi DMV website. Processing takes 2 to 3 weeks. Call the Gulfport office to confirm whether your situation qualifies for mail renewal before you send documents.

You cannot renew online or by mail if your license has expired for more than 5 years, if you have medical restrictions, if you are changing your name, or if you are a non-citizen. In those cases, you must visit the Gulfport office in person.

Getting a State ID Card Instead of a Driver's License

If you do not drive or do not want a driver's license, you can get a Mississippi state ID card at the Gulfport office. It serves as official photo identification for voting, banking, travel within the United States, and other purposes. The documents you need are the same as for a driver's license: proof of identity, Social Security number, and proof of residency.

State ID cards cost less than driver's licenses and do not require a road test or written test. The process is faster than getting a license. You can renew a state ID by mail or online under the same conditions as driver's license renewal. If your state ID has expired, you must renew in person at the Gulfport office.

What to Expect During Your Visit

Arrive early — the Gulfport office can have a wait of 30 minutes to over an hour depending on the day and time. Bring all required documents in original form or as certified copies. Have your documents organized and ready to show. Staff will not search through a bag or folder for you.

You will first check in at the front desk and receive a number. Wait for your number to be called, then go to the window. The staff member will review your documents, take your photo, and collect your fee. Payment is by cash, check, or card — confirm which methods the office accepts by calling ahead.

For a license or state ID, you will receive a temporary paper license on the spot that is valid for 45 days while your permanent card is printed and mailed. The permanent license arrives within 7 to 10 business days. If you do not receive it within that time, call the office to check the status.

Fees and Payment Methods

Driver's license renewal costs $24.50 for a four-year license. A new license costs $24.50. A state ID card costs $12.50 to renew and $12.50 for a new card. These fees are set by Mississippi state law and do not vary by location. The Gulfport office accepts cash, check, and card payment, though you should call to confirm card payment is available on the day you visit.

If you are renewing online, the fee is $20 instead of $24.50. Mail renewal costs the same as in-person renewal. Road test fees are separate and cost $15. Written test fees are $10. These fees do not include the cost of your license itself.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my license online if it expired more than a year ago?

No. Online renewal is only for licenses that are still valid. If your license has expired, you must renew in person at the Gulfport office. Bring your expired license, proof of identity, proof of residency, and proof of your Social Security number. You will not need to take a test unless your license expired more than 5 years ago.

Do I need an appointment to visit the Gulfport DMV?

No. The Gulfport office does not take appointments. You arrive during business hours and wait your turn. Road tests are an exception — you must schedule those by phone or online in advance. Call (228) 896-6500 to book a road test appointment.

What if I lost my Social Security card?

Bring a W-2, 1099, tax return, or bank statement showing your Social Security number instead. You do not need the card itself, just proof of the number. If you have none of these documents, contact the Social Security Administration to request a replacement card before you visit the DMV.

How long does a road test take?

The actual driving portion takes about 15 to 20 minutes. Add time for check-in and paperwork before and after. Plan to spend 30 to 45 minutes total at the office for a road test, not counting wait time if the office is busy.

Can I take my road test in a borrowed vehicle?

Yes, as long as the vehicle is registered, insured, and in safe working condition. The registration and insurance do not have to be in your name. Bring proof of insurance and the vehicle registration with you. The vehicle must have working brakes, lights, wipers, and mirrors.