Getting a Mississippi learner's permit
The steps in plain English. Each one links to the Mississippi Department of Public Safety, Driver Service Bureau page it came from. Last checked Nov 15, 2026.
Study the Mississippi Driver's License Manual, a free download from the Driver Service Bureau.
Source: driverservicebureau.dps.ms.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026Gather the signed application, original birth certificate, Social Security proof and two proofs of residency.
Source: driverservicebureau.dps.ms.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026Get a school attendance form from your school that is less than 30 days old (ages 15-17).
Source: driverservicebureau.dps.ms.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026If you are under 17, have your parents sign the application and get their signatures notarized.
Source: driverservicebureau.dps.ms.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026Book an appointment at a Driver Service station.
Source: driverservicebureau.dps.ms.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026Pass the in-person knowledge exam and eye exam, then pay the $7 permit fee.
Source: driverservicebureau.dps.ms.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026
Check before you go: requirements and fees change, and some depend on your age or situation. The official page is the final word.
Related facts
- Minimum age for a learner's permit
- 15, and you must show proof of school enrollment.Source: driverservicebureau.dps.ms.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026
- Learner's permit fee
- $7.00; the permit is valid for 2 years.Source: driverservicebureau.dps.ms.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026
- Permit validity
- 2 years.Source: driverservicebureau.dps.ms.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026
- How long you hold the permit
- At least 12 months (or until your 17th birthday, whichever comes first). Applicants 17 and older can get the permit and license the same day.Source: driverservicebureau.dps.ms.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026
- Applicants 17 and older
- No 12-month holding period; the permit and license can be issued the same day.Source: driverservicebureau.dps.ms.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026
- Driving on a permit
- Only with a licensed driver aged 21 or older sitting in the seat next to you.Source: driverservicebureau.dps.ms.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026
- Parent signatures
- Applicants under 17 need both parents' signatures (or a guardian's/employer's), and whoever signs must have the signature notarized.Source: driverservicebureau.dps.ms.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026
- Knowledge exam
- A computerized multiple-choice exam based on the Driver's License Manual, taken in person; a headset can read questions aloud.Source: driverservicebureau.dps.ms.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026
- Where the exam is taken
- All knowledge exams are taken in person; phones, earbuds and smart watches are banned from the testing area.Source: driverservicebureau.dps.ms.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026
- How long a passed exam counts
- A passed computerized exam score is valid for 2 years.Source: driverservicebureau.dps.ms.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026
- Documents for a first permit
- Signed application, original birth certificate (no photocopies), Social Security card or document showing all 9 digits, 2 proofs of Mississippi residency, name-change papers if needed, and a school attendance form (ages 15-17).Source: driverservicebureau.dps.ms.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026
- Appointments
- Not required, but the Driver Service Bureau highly recommends booking one.Source: driverservicebureau.dps.ms.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026
- Out-of-state permit time
- Months held on a valid out-of-state learner's permit count toward the 12-month requirement.Source: driverservicebureau.dps.ms.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026
More in the Mississippi guide
Official Mississippi links
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