What to Bring to the Mississippi DMV for Your Permit Test
Don't get sent home. Here's the complete checklist — documents, fees, forms, and what to leave at home.
Before You Go
- →Call your local office to check if they accept walk-ins or require an appointment
- →Print the application form from the website to save time, but leave the signature blank
- →Arrive at least 15 minutes early to get your number and fill out paperwork
- →Study the Mississippi Driver's Manual thoroughly before going
- →Double-check that all your documents are originals and not expired
- →Make sure your parent knows they need to come with you
- →Bring a valid photo ID for your parent if they don't have their license
Required Documents
Proof of Identity (Primary Document)
- ✓Valid U.S. Passport or Passport Card
- ✓Certified U.S. Birth Certificate (with raised seal)
- ✓Permanent Resident Card (Green Card)
- ✓Certificate of Naturalization or Citizenship
- ✓Valid Military ID
Bring the original document only; photocopies are not accepted for the primary identity proof.
Proof of Social Security Number
- ✓Social Security Card (original)
- ✓W-2 Form with full SSN
- ✓Pay stub with full SSN
- ✓SSA-1099 Form
- ✓Non-SSA-1099 Form
Mississippi requires proof of your SSN. If you don't have a card, bring a W-2 or pay stub that clearly shows your full number. You cannot get a permit without proving your SSN.
Proof of Mississippi Residency
Bring 2 of these:
- ✓Parent's utility bill (electric, water, gas) within last 60 days
- ✓Parent's bank statement or credit card statement
- ✓Mississippi vehicle registration or title
- ✓Mississippi voter registration card
- ✓School report card or transcript with current address
- ✓Lease or mortgage agreement
Since you are under 18, your parent's documents count for your residency. You generally need two different documents showing the same address to get a REAL ID compliant license.
Parental / Guardian Consent (applicants under 18)
- ✓Parent or legal guardian must sign the application in person at the office
- ✓If the parent cannot appear, a notarized affidavit of consent is required
- ✓Legal guardians must bring court documents proving guardianship
- ✓Foster parents must bring specific agency documentation
One parent or guardian must be present to sign. If a parent is deceased or unavailable, you must bring legal documentation proving who has custody.
Fees & Payment
$7
The $7 fee covers the learner's permit application. If you fail the written test, there is a small fee to retake it, but the permit fee itself is paid once.
Accepted payment:
Forms
Application for Driver's License (Form DL-180)
Available at: Mississippi DPS office or downloadable from the official website
Do not sign the form until you are standing in front of the clerk; they need to watch you sign it.
What NOT to Bring
- ✗Your cell phone (turn it off or leave it in the car; no texting during the test)
- ✗Friends or siblings (they can't help you take the test)
- ✗Large backpacks or bags (storage is limited)
- ✗Food or drinks (no eating in the testing area)
- ✗Your own pen (the office provides them)
- ✗Fake documents or photocopies of originals
- ✗Pets (unless they are service animals)
At the Office
- →The written test is computer-based; you'll use a mouse or touchscreen
- →You must pass the vision screening before taking the written test
- →If you fail the written test, you can usually retake it the same day for a small fee
- →Once you pass, you'll get an interim paper permit immediately; the plastic card arrives by mail in a few weeks
- →Listen carefully to the clerk's instructions on how to use your new permit (like the 180-day holding period)
Official Mississippi Department of Public Safety info: www.dps.ms.gov
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