In many ways, earning your driver's license is a rite of passage. As a teen driver in the state of Mississippi, you can take the first step when you turn 15 years old: getting your learner's permit.

Top Learner's Permit

Pick up a copy of the Driver's Manual at your local driver's license office and study this book thoroughly before you show up on test day. This manual contains everything you'll encounter when you take the written test. And while you are at it, also pick up a permit application to complete in advance.

When you are ready to apply for your learner's permit, a Class LP license, return to the licensing office with the following information:

• Certified birth certificate

• Social Security card (non-metal)

• Certificate of Attendance from your school (if you're under 18)

• Completed application with parental signatures; if your parents are divorced, only the custodial parent will need to sign

• Learner's permit fee: $4

Note: During the application process, you must pass the written exam as well as pass the vision test before you can get your hands on a learner's permit.

Top Intermediate License

Mississippi offers an intermediate license, one step above the learner's permit. This Class Y license allows you to drive, unsupervised, from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m.. If you need to drive outside of those hours, you must have a licensed driver who is at least 21 years old riding in the front passenger seat. You will still need to pass the written and vision tests, and you will need to provide the same information stated above that is required to obtain the learner's permit. The fee for an Intermediate License is $6.

Top Bypassing the Certificate of Attendance Requirement

In Mississippi, if you are under the age of 18, you must provide a Certificate of Attendance to receive any driver's license or permit. This document is only valid for 30 days. However, there is one exception to the rule: marriage.

If you are married and under 18, you are not required to provide the Certificate of Attendance when you apply for a learner's permit or driver's license. Instead, you will need to provide a certified copy of your marriage certificate. Your driver's license will only be valid for one year or until your next birthday. The license fee is $6.

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