How to Schedule an Appointment at the Mississippi DSB

Navigating the Mississippi Driver Service Bureau (DSB) has become significantly more efficient with the implementation of the TeleGov scheduling system. Whether you are a first-time driver, moving to the Magnolia State, or renewing your credentials, most in-person visits now require a pre-scheduled time slot to avoid the long lines of the past.

How to Make a Mississippi Driver Service Appointment

The most reliable way to book your visit is through the official Mississippi Department of Public Safety (MDPS) portal.

  1. Access the Appointment Wizard: Go directly to the Mississippi DPS TeleGov Portal.
  2. Select Your Service: Choose the specific transaction you need (e.g., Mississippi driving record request, Permit, Road Test, or Renewal).
  3. Choose a Location: Select the county or city office nearest to you. Note that some smaller “sub-stations” may have limited hours.
  4. Pick Date and Time: The system will show you the “Next Available” slots. If your local office is booked, check a neighboring county for earlier openings.
  5. Enter Personal Details: Provide your full name, email, and phone number to receive a confirmation text/email.
  6. Verify & Save: Save your confirmation code. You will need to show this on your phone or a printout when you arrive at the station.

Specific Appointment Types & Requirements

1. Learner’s Permit & Written Test

In Mississippi, the written knowledge test and the vision screening are performed during the same appointment as your permit issuance.

  • Age Requirement: You must be at least 15 years old.
  • The Test: 30 multiple-choice questions; you must score at least 24/30 (80%) to pass.
  • Required Documents: You must bring a Certified Birth Certificate, your Social Security Card, and an up-to-date School Attendance Form (if under 18).

2. Road Skills Test Appointment

You cannot take the road test until you have successfully held your learner’s permit for the required duration (12 monthsif under 17; no wait time if 17 or older).

  • Vehicle Prep: You must provide your own vehicle with valid insurance and a current inspection/tag.
  • Check-In: Arrive 15 minutes early to allow for the vehicle safety inspection before the driving portion begins.

3. Driver’s License Renewal

You may renew your license up to 6 months before it expires. If your license has been expired for more than 5 years, you must retake the written knowledge exam. Many residents are eligible to renew online every other cycle, but if you need a new photo, an in-person appointment is mandatory.

The “Skip the Line” Live Cam Feature

One of the most useful tools for Mississippi drivers is the Skip the Line Cam. Before you leave for your appointment, you can view live camera feeds of the waiting areas at major troop locations (like Biloxi, Pearl, and Hattiesburg). This allows you to gauge the crowd size and ensure the station is running on schedule.

What Documents Should I Bring?

To ensure your appointment isn’t wasted, you must bring original documents. Photocopies are not accepted.

  • Identity: Certified U.S. Birth Certificate or Passport.
  • SSN: Original Social Security Card (not a copy).
  • Residency: Two (2) proofs of Mississippi residency (utility bill, bank statement, or mortgage paper) dated within the last 60 days.
  • Fees: Bring a Credit/Debit card or a Money Order. Most stations are now cashless.

Major Mississippi County Tax Collector Offices

CountyOffice AddressPhone Number
Hinds (Jackson)316 S. President St., Jackson, MS 39201(601) 968-6587
Harrison (Gulfport)1801 23rd Ave., Gulfport, MS 39501(228) 865-4039
DeSoto (Hernando)365 Losher St., Suite 110, Hernando, MS 38632(662) 469-8030
Rankin (Brandon)211 East Government St., Brandon, MS 39042(601) 825-1467
Madison (Canton)229 North Union St., Canton, MS 39046(601) 859-5226
Forrest (Hattiesburg)601 N. Main St., Hattiesburg, MS 39401(601) 582-8228
Lafayette (Oxford)300 N. Lamar Blvd., Suite 103, Oxford, MS 38655(662) 234-6006
Lauderdale (Meridian)612 22nd Ave. S., Meridian, MS 39301(601) 482-9786

If your county is not listed above, you can find your local Tax Collector’s contact information using this method:Mississippi Department of Revenue (DOR): The MDOR maintains a complete directory of County Tax Collectors.

    Important: Vehicle Registration vs. Driver Services

    A common mistake is trying to register a car or get license plates at a DPS Driver Service station.

    • Driver Licenses/Permits: Handled by the DPS Driver Service Bureau via the appointment process above.
    • Tags, Titles, and Registration: Handled by your County Tax Collector or the Mississippi Department of Revenue. These offices typically operate on a walk-in basis and do not use the TeleGov system.

    Tips for a Successful Visit

    • Best Time to Visit: Mid-week (Tuesday through Thursday) is generally less crowded. Avoid the first and last day of the month when registration renewals spike.
    • Cancellations: If you cannot make your time, use the “Cancel/Reschedule” link in your confirmation email. This helps other drivers secure a slot.
    • Reinstatements: If you are visiting to reinstate your Mississippi license, ensure you have already paid your fees online to speed up the process.
    Conclusion

    Once your appointment is booked, your primary focus should be on gathering your original documents. Even with a confirmed appointment, the DPS will turn you away if your Social Security card is a photocopy or your residency proofs are expired. Check your confirmation email for a “Confirmation Number”—this is your digital ticket into the building.

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