Mississippi Driver's License Manual

Overview

This manual from the Mississippi Department of Public Safety provides comprehensive instructions, requirements, rules, and safety information for obtaining and maintaining a driver’s license and operating a motor vehicle in Mississippi.

Key License Requirements

• A valid Mississippi driver’s license or learner’s permit is required to operate most motor vehicles.
• Exemptions include non-residents with valid home-state licenses, military vehicles, and road/farm equipment.
• Ineligible persons include those under sixteen (or under seventeen without meeting prerequisites), unverified school enrollment (under 18), certain medical/mental conditions, and revoked licenses.
• Licenses for new residents must be obtained within 60 days; plates/registration within 30 days.

Types of Licenses & Permits

• Regular Learner’s Permit: Minimum age 15; must be held for one year before obtaining a regular license, unless applicant is 17 or older.
• Class R Regular Driver’s License: Requires passing written and vision exams, completion of driver’s education (from July 2027), and 50 hours of supervised driving (if under 17).
• Motorcycle Endorsement: Requires additional tests; helmet use is mandatory.
• School Bus License: Minimum age 21.

Examination & Application Process

• Applicants must complete forms, provide proof of identity (birth certificate, Social Security card), and proof of residency (two documents).
• Under 18s must show school attendance certification and, from July 2027, driver’s education completion.
• Examinations include vision and a computerized test based on manual content.

Vehicle & Equipment Regulations

• Vehicles must have functioning brakes, horns, lights, muffler, and wipers; properly maintained tires are required.
• Squatted vehicles (front fender significantly higher than rear) are prohibited.
• Specific equipment rules apply to commercial vehicles and trucks.

Rules of the Road & Safe Driving

• Always drive defensively, stay attentive, and avoid distractions (including handheld phone use).
• Obey all pavement markings, traffic signals, and signs.
• Speed limits: Interstates (70 mph), four-lane highways (65 mph), two-lane highways (55 mph), Natchez Trace (50 mph), and school zones (15 mph).
• Follow safe following distances and use turn signals; know proper turning, passing, and parking procedures.
• Yield right-of-way to pedestrians, school buses, and emergency vehicles as specified.

Special Situations & Safety

• Use headlights from sunset to sunrise or when visibility is below 500 feet.
• Seat belts are mandatory for all occupants; child restraint rules are specified by age and size.
• Guidelines for hazardous driving conditions, emergencies, and accident procedures are included.

Legal & Administrative Actions

• Proof of insurance is mandatory; failure to provide it can result in suspension.
• DUI laws and penalties are outlined, with zero tolerance for underage drivers.
• License suspension/revocation can result from multiple offenses, failure to pay child support, or certain convictions.
• Procedures for reinstatement are specified.

Additional Topics

• Information on organ donation, Natchez Trace Parkway rules, and the “Share the Road” safety campaign is included.
• Littering is illegal and subject to fines; dispose of trash responsibly.

Decisions

• Driver’s education required from July 2027 for new licenses.
• Helmet use is mandatory for motorcycle operators and passengers.

Action Items

• By July 1, 2027 – All new license applicants: Complete driver’s education before applying.
• Upon moving to Mississippi – New residents: Obtain a local license within 60 days and license plate within 30 days.

Key Dates / Deadlines

• Obtain Mississippi driver’s license within 60 days of residency.
• Obtain vehicle license plate within 30 days.
• Complete license renewal up to six months before expiration.
• Licensees under 18 must provide school attendance documentation not more than 30 days old.

Recommendations / Advice

• Always drive defensively and avoid distractions.
• Regularly check and maintain vehicle equipment and tires.
• Observe all legal requirements for documents, insurance, and safety devices.