Where to Find the Mississippi DMV
The Mississippi Department of Motor Vehicles operates from a single headquarters location in Jackson, plus satellite offices in regional centers across the state. The main office is at 1104 Woolfolk Building, Jackson, MS 39201. If you live outside Jackson, you can visit a regional office closer to you — Mississippi has field offices in Biloxi, Gulfport, Hattiesburg, Meridian, and Tupelo, among others.
The easiest way to find the office nearest you is to visit the official Mississippi DMV website at dmv.ms.gov. The site lists all office locations, hours of operation, and the services each location offers. Not every office handles every transaction — some smaller branches handle renewals and address changes only, while the Jackson headquarters handles commercial licenses, CDL testing, and more complex matters.
Before you drive to any office, call ahead or check the website for current hours. Mississippi DMV offices sometimes close for staff training or due to staffing shortages, and hours vary by location. Many offices are closed on Mondays or have limited hours on certain days.
Key Takeaways
- The main Mississippi DMV office is in Jackson, but regional offices in Biloxi, Gulfport, Hattiesburg, Meridian, and Tupelo handle many routine transactions.
- Not all offices offer the same services — check dmv.ms.gov or call ahead to confirm your local office handles what you need.
- Hours vary by location and can change without notice, so verify before making a trip.
- You can renew your driver's license, register a vehicle, or change your address at most locations, but some services require the Jackson office.
- The Mississippi DMV does not accept walk-ins at all locations — some require appointments, so call first.
Services You Can Handle at Regional Offices
Most Mississippi DMV regional offices handle driver's license renewals, replacements, and address changes. You can also register or renew vehicle registration at these locations. If you need to change your address on your license or vehicle registration, a regional office is usually sufficient and often faster than the main office.
Commercial driver's license (CDL) testing, hazmat endorsements, and certain specialized licenses are handled only at the Jackson headquarters or specific testing centers. If you need a CDL, the website will direct you to the correct location. The same applies to motorcycle endorsements in some cases — verify with your local office first.
What Documents to Bring
For a driver's license renewal or address change, bring your current license, proof of residency (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days), and proof of Social Security number (your Social Security card, W-2, or 1099). If you are changing your name, bring a certified copy of the document that changed it — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order.
For vehicle registration or renewal, bring your current registration, proof of insurance, and a form of identification. If you are registering a vehicle for the first time in Mississippi, you will also need the title and bill of sale. The exact documents required can vary slightly by transaction, so check dmv.ms.gov or call your local office before you go.
Online and Mail Options
Mississippi allows some transactions online through dmv.ms.gov. You can renew your driver's license online if it is not expired and you have not had a name change. Vehicle registration renewal is also available online. These options are faster than visiting an office and do not require an appointment.
For transactions that cannot be done online, you may be able to mail documents to the Jackson headquarters, though processing times are longer — typically two to three weeks. Not all services accept mail-in requests, so check the website or call 601-987-1200 to ask whether your specific transaction can be handled by mail.
Appointment Scheduling and Wait Times
Some Mississippi DMV offices require appointments, while others operate on a first-come, first-served basis. The Jackson office and larger regional locations often have appointment systems to manage crowds. You can schedule an appointment through dmv.ms.gov or by calling the office directly.
Wait times vary widely depending on the office and time of day. The Jackson headquarters can have waits of one to two hours during peak times, while smaller regional offices may have shorter waits. Early morning visits, typically before 10 a.m., tend to be less crowded. Avoid Fridays and the end of the month when possible.
Contact Information and Hours
The main Mississippi DMV phone line is 601-987-1200. This number connects you to the Jackson headquarters, where staff can answer questions about services, locations, hours, and required documents. Regional offices have their own phone numbers, which are listed on dmv.ms.gov.
Most offices are open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., but hours vary by location. Some offices close for lunch or have shortened hours on certain days. The website shows the exact hours for each office. If you cannot reach an office by phone during business hours, try calling back later or visiting the website for email contact options.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my Mississippi driver's license online?
Yes, if your license is not expired and you have not had a name change. You can renew online through dmv.ms.gov. If your license is expired or you need a replacement card, you must visit an office in person.
Do I need an appointment at the Mississippi DMV?
It depends on the office. Some locations require appointments, while others are first-come, first-served. Check dmv.ms.gov or call your local office to find out. If appointments are available, scheduling one will save you time.
What is the fastest way to change my address on my driver's license?
Renewing online is fastest if your license is not expired. If you must visit an office, a regional location outside Jackson often has shorter wait times than the main office. Bring your current license and proof of residency dated within the last 60 days.
How long does it take to get a replacement driver's license in Mississippi?
If you explore in person, you receive your replacement card the same day in most cases. If you mail in your request, processing takes two to three weeks. Visiting an office is faster if you need the license soon.
Can I handle vehicle registration renewal by mail?
Yes, you can renew online through dmv.ms.gov, which is faster than mail. If you must mail it, send your renewal notice and payment to the Jackson headquarters. Processing by mail takes longer than in-person or online renewal.