FAQ for future drivers from Mississippi
1. How old do you have to be to get a CAR driver's licence in Mississippi?
Here’s how the process for getting a driver’s license works:
- Learner's Permit:
At 15 years old, you can apply for a learner's permit, which allows you to drive with a licensed adult who is at least 21. This is the first step toward building driving experience.
- Intermediate License:
At 16 years old, you can upgrade to an intermediate license if you've held your learner's permit for at least 12 months and passed the driving test. This license comes with some restrictions, like no driving between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m. unless supervised.
- Full License:
At 17 years old, you can apply for a full, unrestricted license, provided you’ve completed the earlier steps and met all requirements.
It’s all about gaining experience safely before full independence on the road!
2. What documents do you need to apply for a CAR driver's licence in Mississippi?
To apply for a driver’s license, here’s a breakdown of the documents you’ll need based on the type of license:
Standard Driver’s License:
- Proof of Identity: U.S. birth certificate, passport, or certificate of naturalization.
- Proof of Social Security Number (SSN): Social Security card, W-2, or pay stub showing your SSN.
- Proof of Mississippi Residency: Two documents such as a utility bill, lease agreement, or bank statement with your name and address.
REAL ID:
For a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license, you’ll need:
- Proof of Identity: U.S. passport or certified birth certificate.
- Proof of SSN: Social Security card, W-2, or pay stub with your SSN.
- Two Proofs of Mississippi Residency: Utility bill, lease, or bank statement with your current address.
- Proof of Legal Presence: Non-U.S. citizens must provide valid immigration documents.
Exceptions:
- New Residents: If you just moved here, you have 60 days to apply for a new license. Bring the same documents as first-time applicants.
- Non-U.S. Citizens: You must provide immigration documents to prove your legal presence in the U.S.
- Military: Active-duty military and their dependents might qualify for special extensions or exemptions.
Make sure your documents are original or certified copies. Always check with the Mississippi Department of Public Safety for any updates before heading to the DMV!
3. What should i do if i don't pass the practical driving exam from the first try?
If you don’t pass the driving test on the first try, you’ll need to wait one week before retaking it. There's no limit to how many times you can retake the test, but make sure to practice and come prepared.
4. What are the restrictions for new drivers in Mississippi?
Beginner drivers with an intermediate license have a few important restrictions:
- Curfew: You can't drive between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m. from Sunday to Thursday, and between 11:30 p.m. and 6 a.m. on weekends, unless you're with a licensed adult or driving to/from work or school.
- Passenger limits: You can’t have more than one passenger under 21 who’s not a family member.
- No phone use: You're not allowed to use a phone while driving unless it’s an emergency.
These rules are designed to help you gain experience and stay safe on the road!
5. How long is an Mississippi driver's licence valid for?
A standard driver's license is valid for 4 years. The license expires on your birthday, and you can renew it up to 6 months before it expires.
For renewal, you can do it online if you're eligible, or you can renew in person at the Mississippi Department of Public Safety (DPS) office. If you're 65 or older, you can also renew in person at the office. Make sure to bring the required identification documents and pay the renewal fee. It's always a good idea to check the DPS website for the latest details.
6. Can I drive a CAR in Mississippi with a foreign license?
Yes, you can drive with a foreign driver's license if you are a visitor. However, if your license is not in English, it’s recommended to carry an International Driving Permit (IDP) alongside it. If you become a resident, you must obtain a Mississippi driver’s license within 60 days of establishing residency.