Identification Cards

Who is Eligible?

Mississippi's Department of Public Safety offers identification cards to any resident six years of age or older, and to any blind or physically disabled person. ID cards are valid for four years for most people; IDs for legally blind residents are good for 10 years.

What to Bring

To obtain a state ID card, visit your local driver's license office with the following information:

• A completed application form.

• Proof of residency. The following may work: electric or water bill, lease agreement, vehicle-registration receipt, mortgage documents, homestead exemption receipt, bank statement, notarized employer verification on company letterhead (with a phone number) that states your address, your parent or guardian's state driver's license (valid for those who are under 21).

• Social Security card (non-metal) or a print out from the Social Security Administration.

• Certified birth certificate (not a hospital certificate).

Fees

Identification cards cost $13 for the first card you are issued. If your card is lost or stolen, you will pay $5 for a duplicate card. If you lose it a second time, the fee is $10. Fees must be paid in cash only; no checks, credit cards, or money orders are accepted.

Renewing Your ID Card

Mississippi ID cards are issued for a period of four years, expiring on the last day of the cardholder's birth month. For blind cardholders, the renewal is every 10 years.

Mississippi has Online renewal available, but with certain day and time exceptions. You may not renew your ID card online at these times:

• Between 2 a.m. and 3 a.m. Monday through Saturday.

• Any time on Sunday.

• On New Year's Day, Fourth of July, Thanksgiving or Christmas Day.

Of course, you may renew your ID card in person at your local Mississippi Highway Patrol Office.

The renewal fees for ID cards in Mississippi are $11 plus a photograph fee, if applicable.

Replacing Your ID Card

If necessary, make sure you update your address before requesting a duplicate ID card to avoid additional delays and fees.

You can replace your card online. Follow the instructions at the state's Web site, and get your credit card ready. You'll need to provide basic information, exactly as it appears on the original card, and pay a modest convenience fee.