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How to Get Your Mississippi Permit License

The actual step-by-step process, from application to full license — not just what's on the exam. Confirm anything time-sensitive (fees, forms) with Mississippi DPS directly.

Under 18 (Graduated Licensing)

  1. Apply for a limited learner's permit at 14, if enrolled in driver education

    A teen enrolled in a certified driver education program can apply for a limited learner's permit a year early, at 14, with a parent or guardian's signature.

    • Proof of identity and residency
    • Parent or legal guardian's signature
    • Driver education enrollment proof

  2. Otherwise, apply for a standard learner's permit at 15

    Apply at a Driver Service Bureau office with parent or guardian consent. Pass the 30-question knowledge test (80%, 24 correct), computer-based and given in person, plus a vision test.

    • Birth certificate or equivalent
    • Proof of Social Security number and residency
    • Parent or guardian signature

  3. Hold the permit at least 12 months

    Hold the learner's permit for at least 12 months before becoming eligible for an intermediate license.

  4. Apply for an intermediate license

    Once the 12-month holding period is met, apply for an intermediate license.

  5. Follow intermediate-license restrictions for 12 months

    For the first 12 months of holding the license, or until turning 18, whichever comes first: no driving 10 p.m.-6 a.m. Sunday-Thursday or 11:30 p.m.-6 a.m. Friday-Saturday, except for employment or with a supervising adult 21+; no more than one passenger under 20 without a parent or guardian present; and no cell phone use, even hands-free.

  6. Move to a regular license at 17

    A Mississippi driver reaches a regular, unrestricted operator's license at 17.

18 and Older

  1. Apply for a learner's permit

    Apply at a Driver Service Bureau office; the graduated stages and their restrictions apply only to an applicant who starts before turning 18.

  2. Pass the knowledge test

    Pass the same 30-question knowledge test (80%, 24 correct) and a vision test.

    • Proof of identity, Social Security number, and residency

  3. Practice and pass the road test

    Practice driving under the terms of your learner's permit, then pass the road test to receive your license.

  4. Receive your full license

    Adult first-time applicants receive a standard, unrestricted license upon passing.

Notes

  • Mississippi's licensing agency is the Department of Public Safety's Driver Service Bureau — the state doesn't use a "DMV" name.
  • Mississippi's zero-tolerance law charges an under-21 driver testing between 0.02% and 0.08% with an actual DUI, not a lesser civil violation.
  • Exact fees and current procedures change over time — confirm the current process on the official Mississippi Driver Service Bureau website before your appointment.

Last reviewed: 2026-07-23