Mississippi plays a vital role in moving agricultural goods and freight from the Gulf of Mexico. Whether you are hauling cotton in the Delta or shipping containers from Gulfport, you need a CDL.
The Mississippi Department of Public Safety (DPS) oversees the licensing process. This 2026 guide helps you navigate the fees, forms, and specific laws.
1. Mississippi DPS CDL Fees (2026)
Mississippi separates its fees into application, permit, and license stages.
| Item | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| CDL Application Fee | $25.00 | Paid to start the process. |
| Learner's Permit (CLP) | $13.00 | Valid for 6 months. |
| Class A / B License | $55.00 | Valid for 5 years. |
| Endorsements | $5.00 each | Added to license. |
2. Agricultural Exemptions (Farm Waiver)
Agriculture is huge in Mississippi. You may be exempt from needing a CDL if:
- You are operating a farm vehicle controlled by a farmer.
- You are transporting agricultural products/machinery to or from a farm.
- You are within 150 air-miles of the farm.
- Important: This exemption does not apply if you are a “for-hire” carrier hauling someone else’s crops for money.
3. Modernized Skills Test
Mississippi has begun implementing the Modernized CDL Skills Test.
- Pre-Trip: The checklist is shorter and focuses on “Critical Safety Items.”
- Backing: The basic control skills now include a Forward Stop and a Box Backing maneuver, which replaces the traditional alley dock in some locations.
4. MS Practice Questions
1. In Mississippi, you must dim your high beams when an oncoming vehicle is within:
A. 200 feet.
B. 500 feet.
C. 300 feet.
Correct Answer: B.
You must switch to low beams within 500 feet of an oncoming vehicle or when following another vehicle within 500 feet (state law specifics may vary, but 500 is the general safety rule).
You must switch to low beams within 500 feet of an oncoming vehicle or when following another vehicle within 500 feet (state law specifics may vary, but 500 is the general safety rule).
2. When hauling a heavy load of logs in Mississippi, you must ensure:
A. The logs do not extend beyond the rear of the trailer.
B. The load is secured with at least two wrappers (chains/straps).
C. You only drive during daylight.
Correct Answer: B.
Proper securement is critical for logging trucks. Wrappers must be tight, and the load must be checked within the first 50 miles.
Proper securement is critical for logging trucks. Wrappers must be tight, and the load must be checked within the first 50 miles.
Conclusion
Mississippi offers a low cost of living and high demand for drivers. Master the DPS written tests first, then focus on the modernized backing skills.