Hardship Driver's License

Note: These are NOT available for individuals who have received a DUI.

   Consideration: 

     Any Mississippi resident (15-17 years old ONLY) who has successfully received a learner's permit and held it for a period of 30 days without any traffic infractions, a parent or legal guardian may request consideration for hardship driving privileges by completing the following:

  1. Request for Hardship Form submitted by e-mail to Hardship@dps.ms.gov as a PDF. Please do not submit photographs of your application. Please do NOT submit your application more than once. Notice of approval or denial will be sent by email. If approved, proof of hardship will also be sent by USPS.

  2. Meet the requirements of law (ALL ARE REQUIRED)​​​​​
  • Complete a certified driver's education course (ONLINE Driver's Education will not be accepted after January 31, 2026.) 
  • Have no prior traffic citations
  • Meet school attendance policy 

The following reasons will be considered for hardship request:

  • School Transportation
  • A death-related emergency
  • Assistance for transportation of siblings
  • Medical needs
  • Work requirement
  • Family business requirements (farm included)

   Revocation

     The Commissioner of Public Safety may revoke any hardship driving privilege for any reason, with special consideration to the following reasons:

  1. A request for revocation from any parent or guardian
  2. A citation issued by any law enforcement agency
  3. Law enforcement reporting of criminal activity or dangerous operations of a motor vehicle
  4. State Compulsory academic violations 

   Restrictions

     The hardship licensee will only be allowed unsupervised driving to:

  • school or a school related function
  • to assist with transporting siblings to school or a school related function
  • work
  • medical needs

At all other times the hardship licensee must be supervised by a parent, guardian, or other person twenty-one years or older who holds a valid driver's license and who is occupying the seat beside the driver. 

The Hardship Licensee will only be allowed to transport immediate family members, such as, siblings, parents, and/or grandparents. 

The Hardship Licensee will not be allowed to use a cell phone in any matter while driving the vehicle, including handsfree usage.