How to Get Your Mississippi Learner's Permit (DPS Guide)
Everything you need to apply for a Regular Learner's Permit through the Mississippi Department of Public Safety, Driver Service Bureau (DPS) — the age requirement, documents to bring, the knowledge test, fees, and what comes next.
Requirements & minimum age
To get a Regular Learner's Permit in Mississippi, you must be at least 15 and apply in person at the Mississippi Department of Public Safety, Driver Service Bureau (DPS). Applicants under 18 generally need a parent or guardian to sign, and many states also require enrollment in or completion of a driver-education course.
Mississippi's DPS knowledge test covers road signs, traffic laws, and safe driving from the Mississippi Driver's Manual. Teens follow a graduated licensing program with intermediate nighttime restrictions.
Documents to bring to the DPS
Bring original or certified documents (not photocopies) that establish:
- Proof of identity and age, such as an original or certified copy of your birth certificate (photocopies are not accepted) or another acceptable identity document
- Proof of Social Security number, such as your Social Security card or official government correspondence showing all nine digits
- Two documents proving Mississippi residency
- A completed application; if the applicant is under 18, the required signatures must be notarized as parental or guardian consent
- A school attendance/enrollment compliance form for applicants ages 15 to 17 (not required if the minor is married and presents a marriage license)
- Court or legal documents supporting any name change, if you are applying under a name different from your birth certificate
The knowledge test
In Mississippi, the knowledge test is taken in person. A multiple-choice written knowledge exam taken in person at a Driver License Station, requiring at least 80 percent to pass, along with a vision screening.
Rehearse with our free Mississippi practice test — 25 random questions with instant explanations.
Start the Mississippi Practice Test →Fees
The DPS charges $7.00 (valid for two years) for the permit. Amounts can change and sometimes include separate knowledge-test or service fees, so verify the current cost with the DPS before you visit.
What happens after you pass (graduated licensing)
The learner's permit may be issued at age 15 after passing the vision and knowledge tests, and holders must drive accompanied by a licensed adult. The permit must generally be held for at least 12 months before advancing to a Class R license, though applicants age 17 and older may obtain both on the same day.
Mississippi permit FAQ
How many questions is the Mississippi permit test?
The DPS knowledge test has about 30 questions, and you need 24 of 30 (80%) to pass. Our free practice test uses a random set of 25 questions so you can rehearse before the real thing.
Can you take the Mississippi permit test online?
In Mississippi, the knowledge test is taken in person. A multiple-choice written knowledge exam taken in person at a Driver License Station, requiring at least 80 percent to pass, along with a vision screening.
What do I need to bring to the DPS?
Bring documents that prove your identity, Social Security number, and Mississippi residency, plus anything required for a Regular Learner's Permit. Applicants under 18 also need parental or guardian consent. See the full checklist above.
How old do you have to be to get a Mississippi permit?
You can apply for a Regular Learner's Permit at 15 in Mississippi, provided you meet the DPS's other requirements.
How much does a Mississippi permit cost?
The DPS charges $7.00 (valid for two years) for the permit. Fees can change and may include separate testing or service charges, so confirm the current amount with the DPS.
What happens if I fail the Mississippi permit test?
Applicants who fail may retake the knowledge exam after studying the Mississippi Driver's License Manual. Anyone caught with prohibited electronic devices or cheating has the test cancelled immediately and is banned from testing for six months.
Official sources: www.driverservicebureau.dps.ms.gov · www.driverservicebureau.dps.ms.gov