How to Check if Your Mississippi Driver’s License is Suspended – 3 Easy Ways

Driving with a suspended license in Mississippi can lead to serious consequences, including hefty fines, extended suspensions, or even jail time. If you’re unsure about the status of your driver’s license, it’s important to check it as soon as possible.

Fortunately, the Mississippi Department of Public Safety (DPS) provides several ways to verify your license status. This guide outlines three simple ways to check if your Mississippi driver’s license is suspended and what steps you can take to reinstate it if necessary.

1. Check Online Through the Mississippi DPS Website

The easiest and quickest way to check the status of your driver’s license in Mississippi is through the Mississippi Department of Public Safety (DPS) online portal.

Steps to Check Online:

1. Visit the Mississippi DPS Website – Go to the official website of the Mississippi Department of Public Safety.
2. Navigate to the Driver’s License Status Section – Look for the section that allows you to check your driver’s license status.
3. Enter Your Personal Information – You will need to provide details such as your driver’s license number, name, date of birth, and possibly your Social Security number.
4. Submit the Request – Once you enter your information, the system will process your request and display the status of your license.

What You’ll See:

• Valid: Your license is active, and you can legally drive.
• Suspended: Your license has been suspended, and you must take action to reinstate it.
• Revoked: Your license is no longer valid, and you will need to apply for a new one after a waiting period.

Online Verification Limitations:

• The online system may not always provide detailed reasons for a suspension.
• If the website is down or experiencing issues, you may need to use an alternative method.

2. Call the Mississippi DPS Customer Service Line

If you don’t have internet access or prefer to speak with a representative, you can check your license status by calling the Mississippi Department of Public Safety (DPS) Driver Records Division.

Steps to Check by Phone:

1. Dial the DPS Driver Services Number – Call the Mississippi DPS at (601) 987-1212 during business hours.
2. Provide Your Information – Be ready to provide your full name, date of birth, driver’s license number, and possibly your Social Security number for verification.
3. Request License Status Information – Ask the representative to confirm whether your license is active, suspended, or revoked.
4. Ask for Further Details – If your license is suspended, inquire about the reason and what steps you need to take for reinstatement.

Pros of Calling DPS:

• You can speak directly to a representative and ask follow-up questions.
• If your license is suspended, you can get immediate information on reinstatement requirements.

Cons:

• Long wait times, especially during peak hours.
• Limited availability outside of business hours.

3. Visit a Mississippi DPS Office in Person

For the most detailed information, visiting a local Mississippi DPS office in person is a reliable option.

Steps to Check in Person:

1. Find the Nearest DPS Office – Use the Mississippi DPS website to locate the closest driver’s license office or Mississippi Highway Patrol Troop Office that handles driver records.
2. Bring Required Documents – To verify your identity, bring your driver’s license (if available), a government-issued ID, and any letters you may have received about your license status.
3. Request Your License Status – Speak with a DPS representative and ask for a copy of your driving record or a license status check.
4. Discuss Reinstatement Options – If your license is suspended, the representative can provide step-by-step guidance on what to do next.

Advantages of an In-Person Visit:

• You can get official documents, such as a copy of your driving record.
• You can address any issues immediately, such as unpaid fines or required paperwork.
• If eligible, you may be able to start the reinstatement process right away.

Disadvantages:

• Requires travel to a DPS office, which may not be convenient.
• Offices may have long wait times, especially without an appointment.

What to Do If Your Mississippi License Is Suspended

If you discover that your Mississippi driver’s license is suspended, don’t panic. There are steps you can take to reinstate your driving privileges.

1. Determine the Reason for Suspension

Common reasons for a suspended license in Mississippi include:

• Unpaid traffic tickets or fines
• DUI (Driving Under the Influence) convictions
• Excessive traffic violations
• Failure to carry insurance
• Failure to appear in court

2. Pay Any Outstanding Fines or Fees

Check with the Mississippi DPS or court system to see if you have any unpaid fines or reinstatement fees. In most cases, you must clear these payments before your license can be reinstated.

3. Complete Any Required Courses

If your suspension is due to a DUI or multiple traffic violations, you may need to complete a defensive driving course, alcohol education program, or community service before reinstatement.

4. Submit a Reinstatement Application

Once you have met all the requirements, submit your license reinstatement application to the Mississippi DPS and pay any required fees.

5. Obtain SR-22 Insurance (If Required)

If your suspension is due to a DUI or failure to carry insurance, you may need to obtain SR-22 insurance, which provides proof of financial responsibility.

Conclusion

Checking whether your Mississippi driver’s license is suspended is crucial to avoiding legal trouble. You can verify your status through the Mississippi DPS website, by calling customer service, or by visiting a DPS office in person. If your license is suspended, take immediate steps to resolve the issue, such as paying fines, completing required courses, and submitting a reinstatement application. Staying informed about your license status ensures that you remain a legal and responsible driver on Mississippi’s roads.