Where the Laurel DMV is located and what it handles
The Mississippi Department of Public Safety Driver Services office in Laurel is located at 1428 Audubon Drive, Laurel, MS 39440. This office issues driver's licenses, handles vehicle registration and title work, and processes license renewals. It is one of several Driver Services locations across Mississippi, each serving a specific region.
Laurel's office serves Jones County and surrounding areas. If you live in or near Laurel and need to renew your license, register a vehicle, or obtain a new driver's license, this is your local office. The office does not handle all DMV functions — some services require a visit to a different location or an online transaction.
Key Takeaways
- The Laurel Driver Services office is at 1428 Audubon Drive and handles driver's licenses, vehicle registration, and title services for Jones County residents.
- Hours and wait times vary by day and season, so calling ahead at the office phone number before you visit can save you a trip.
- You will need a valid form of identification and proof of residency for most transactions, so bring documents before you go.
- Some services like license renewal can be completed online or by mail, which may be faster than visiting in person.
- The office does not handle commercial driver's license (CDL) testing — you must go to a separate CDL testing facility for that.
Hours, phone number, and how to reach the Laurel office
The Laurel Driver Services office is open Monday through Friday during standard business hours. The exact hours change seasonally and may shift without notice, so call the office directly at (601) 428-8758 before you visit to confirm they are open and to ask about current wait times.
Calling ahead also lets you ask whether you need an appointment or whether you can walk in. Some Mississippi Driver Services offices have moved to appointment-only systems during busy periods, and the Laurel office may do the same. A five-minute phone call can prevent a wasted trip.
You can also visit the Mississippi Department of Public Safety website to look up the office location and check for any service alerts or temporary closures. The website does not always show real-time hours, so the phone call remains your most reliable source.
What documents to bring for common transactions
For a driver's license renewal, bring your current license, proof of residency (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement with your name and address), and your Social Security number. If your address has changed, bring two forms of proof showing your new address.
For a new driver's license, bring a birth certificate or passport, a Social Security card or tax return, proof of residency, and a completed process form (available at the office). You will also take a written test and a driving test unless you are renewing an existing license.
For vehicle registration or title work, bring your current registration, proof of ownership (the title or bill of sale), proof of insurance, and proof of residency. If someone else owns the vehicle, bring a notarized power of attorney or the owner's signature on the title.
Bring originals or certified copies — photocopies are usually not accepted. If you are unsure whether a document counts as proof of residency, call the office before you visit.
Services you can handle online or by mail instead
Mississippi allows driver's license renewal by mail if your license is not expired and you have not had any violations or suspensions. You can mail in your current license, a completed renewal form, and the fee. Processing takes two to three weeks. This is faster than visiting if you are willing to wait for mail delivery.
You can also renew your license online through the Mississippi Department of Public Safety website if you meet the same conditions. Online renewal is the fastest option — you receive a temporary license when ready and the permanent one by mail within two weeks.
Vehicle registration renewal can also be done online or by mail if you have not changed your address, vehicle, or insurance. Check the website to see whether your specific situation qualifies for remote renewal.
What to expect during your visit
Arrive early in the day if possible — wait times are usually shorter in the morning and longer in the afternoon. Bring all required documents and have them organized before you reach the counter. The staff will review your documents, take your photo (for a license), collect payment, and give you a receipt.
For a driver's license, you will take a written test on a computer at the office. The test covers road signs, right-of-way rules, and safe driving practices. You must pass before you can schedule a driving test. If you fail, you can retake it the same day or return another day.
The driving test is scheduled separately and may take place on a different day. The examiner will test your ability to start the car, turn, brake, park, and follow traffic laws. Bring the vehicle you will use for the test and proof that it is insured.
Scams and safety alerts for the Laurel area
Do not use third-party websites that claim to renew your license or register your vehicle "faster" or "without visiting the office." These sites charge extra fees and often submit incomplete applications, which delays your transaction. The only official way to renew online is through the Mississippi Department of Public Safety website directly — there is no shortcut.
Be cautious of emails or texts claiming to be from the DMV asking you to verify your information or pay a fee. The Laurel office will not contact you by email or text. If you receive such a message, do not click any links or provide personal information.
If you are buying or selling a vehicle, handle the title transfer in person at the office or through a notary. Never sign a blank title or let someone else handle the paperwork on your behalf unless they have a notarized power of attorney.
If you cannot visit the Laurel office
If you live outside Jones County but need to use the Laurel office, you may be able to visit any Mississippi Driver Services location instead. Each office handles the same services, so you can renew your license or register a vehicle at whichever location is most convenient. Call the Laurel office to confirm whether your county is served by a different location.
If you are unable to visit in person due to disability or transportation barriers, ask the office staff whether they offer any accommodations. Some offices can arrange for a staff member to information you or may allow a representative to handle paperwork on your behalf with proper authorization.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get a new driver's license after my visit?
Your temporary license is issued at the office the same day. Your permanent license arrives by mail within two to three weeks. If you need it sooner, ask the staff whether expedited mail is available for an additional fee.
Can I renew my license if it has already expired?
No, you cannot renew an expired license by mail or online. You must visit the office in person, take the written test again, and pass a driving test. Bring all the documents required for a new license, not a renewal.
What if I lost my Social Security card and do not have the number memorized?
Call the Social Security Administration at 1-800-772-1213 to request a replacement or to confirm your number. You will need it to explore for a driver's license. Bring the replacement card or a letter from Social Security confirming your number.
Do I need an appointment to visit the Laurel office?
Call ahead to ask whether appointments are required. Some days may be walk-in only, while others may require a reservation. The staff can tell you the current policy and may be able to schedule you for a specific time.
Can I register a vehicle if I do not have the title yet?
No, you need the title or a bill of sale to register a vehicle. If you are waiting for the title from a previous owner or a lender, contact them to request it. The Laurel office cannot register a vehicle without proof of ownership.