📅 2026 Update: Significant Changes to Mississippi Traffic Fines and DUI Laws

Since the original article on Mississippi traffic fines was published, several key changes have occurred regarding DUI laws and penalties. Most notably, the rules around non-adjudication and various fees have been updated. This section highlights the important changes that affect individuals facing DUI charges in Mississippi.

The earlier article continues further down the page.

🚦 Non-Adjudication Eligibility

In 2024, Mississippi introduced new guidelines for non-adjudication of DUI offenses. Individuals can now qualify for non-adjudication only once, provided they meet specific conditions. This includes completing all court-imposed terms and not having a commercial driver's license or learning permit at the time of the offense.

💰 Current Fees and Costs

There are several fees associated with DUI penalties in Mississippi. After a suspension under the Implied Consent Law, drivers must pay a $175 reinstatement fee to regain their regular driver’s license. Installing an ignition interlock device also costs $175, and obtaining an ignition interlock-restricted driver’s license has a fee of $56.

First-time DUI offenders must pay a $225 fee for the Mississippi Alcohol Safety Education Program (MASEP).

📝 Steps for Ignition Interlock License

To get an ignition interlock-restricted license, individuals must first install an ignition interlock device in all vehicles they operate. They then need to submit proof of installation to the Department of Public Safety (DPS). This is crucial for complying with court orders following a DUI conviction.

⏰ Processing Times and Deadlines

License suspensions for non-adjudications or convictions start 21 days after the court order. For non-adjudication, all required documents must be mailed from the court within 5 business days. Drivers appealing a conviction must submit a "Notice of Appeal" within 30 days.

📌 Key Points Summary

  • Non-Adjudication is available only once for eligible individuals.
  • A $175 reinstatement fee is required for license restoration.
  • First-time DUI offenders must pay a $225 MASEP fee.
  • Ignition interlock devices are often required for DUI convictions.
  • License suspensions start 21 days after court orders.

💡 Tips for Navigating Mississippi DUI Laws

Review the details of your specific situation with your attorney.

📋 Know Your Fees

Be aware of all fees related to your DUI case. From reinstatement fees to the costs of programs like MASEP, understanding these expenses can help you plan effectively.

⏳ Meet Deadlines

Make sure to keep track of all important deadlines. Submitting documents within specified timeframes can affect your eligibility for non-adjudication or appeals.

🚗 Install Ignition Interlock Devices Promptly

If required to install an ignition interlock device, do it as soon as possible. This can help you regain driving privileges sooner, especially if you apply for an ignition interlock-restricted license.

📞 Utilize Free Resources

Take advantage of free resources like the Mississippi Alcohol Safety Education Program (MASEP) and the Department of Mental Health. These organizations can provide valuable information and support for individuals facing DUI charges.

🔍 Understand Non-Adjudication Requirements

Familiarize yourself with the requirements for non-adjudication. Successful completion of all court-imposed terms is necessary to qualify, and knowing this can help you avoid complications.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

🚗 What are the consequences of refusing a chemical test in Mississippi?

Refusing a chemical test results in a 90-day suspension for a first offense and a 1-year suspension for subsequent refusals, according to Mississippi law.

💼 How long do I need to hold an SR-22 after a DUI conviction?

After a DUI conviction, drivers must maintain an SR-22 form for 3 years to show proof of financial responsibility.

📅 How can I appeal a DUI conviction in Mississippi?

To appeal a DUI conviction, you must submit a file-stamped "Notice of Appeal" to the Department of Public Safety within 30 days of your conviction date.

🛠️ What is the process for getting an ignition interlock device?

To obtain an ignition interlock device, drivers must have it installed in all vehicles they operate and provide proof of installation to the Department of Public Safety before getting an ignition interlock-restricted license.

🎓 What is the Mississippi Alcohol Safety Education Program (MASEP)?

The MASEP is a mandatory program for first-time DUI offenders, costing $225. It aims to educate individuals about the effects of alcohol and drugs on driving.

🚦 What happens if I get a DUI with a child in the vehicle?

A DUI involving a child under 16 years old can lead to additional charges and harsher penalties in Mississippi.

⚖️ Recent Court Rulings Related to DUI Cases

Recent court rulings in Mississippi have focused on how DUI laws are enforced and the penalties for violations. These rulings can significantly impact individuals facing DUI charges.

You can browse more rulings on the news page to stay updated on the latest legal developments.

End of October 2026 Update






 



An Introduction to Mississippi Traffic Fines



 

Mississippi Traffic Fines


 



The State government of Mississippi takes traffic violations very seriously, and has been known to punish traffic violations with very severe Mississippi traffic fines. Everyone charged with a Mississippi traffic violation will have to consider whether to plead guilt to a traffic violation and therefore agree to pay the associated Mississippi traffic fine, or whether to fight it and potentially pay even more in court costs and lawyer fees. Some important elements to knowing whether or not to plead guilty is understanding what the Mississippi traffic fine is that you will be facing and understanding better the traffic court system. Here are a few tips to help you along the way.



 



 



A Brief Sampling of Mississippi Traffic Fines



 



 



Unfortunately, there is simply no such thing as essentially Mississippi traffic fines, the reason being that each local district and county has their own traffic laws and their own Mississippi traffic fines associated with those laws. You’ll absolutely need to check with your own local court to see what the traffic fine is that you might have to pay.



 



 



However, you might also be able to get an idea of what the Mississippi traffic fine will be based on the fees given out by Jackson, Mississippi’s largest city. Here are a few of Jackson’s Mississippi traffic fees:



 



 



•Driving 10 miles per hour above the posted speed limit: $168.50



 



 



•Driving 20 miles per hour above the posted speed limit: $238.50



 



 



•Ignoring stop signs, traffic lights, and railroad crossing: $183.50



 



 



•Improper passing as well as improper turning, including failure to signal: $158.50



 



 



Please not that these are some of the heftiest traffic fees inflected throughout the entirety of the United States of America, and your county may not be any more lenient. The curious may also want to know that no publicly-available formula dictates how much the Mississippi traffic fine will be for each particular speed over the limit. The number is set arbitrarily per speed.



 



 



Accepting Mississippi Traffic Fines



 



 



Depending on the charge filed against you and the county in which it is filed, you will have anywhere from ten days to thirty days to respond to your ticket. If you plead not guilty, a trial date will be set and you will appear in court on a specific date. If you plead guilty, then you should be able to pay simply through the mail, with your Mississippi traffic fee mailed to you for your convenience.



 



 



Starting in 2006, the State of Mississippi began offering traffic school courses. The advantage of this is that, if you enroll, you can have your record cleaned of previous violations. Beware, though, that traffic school has a price, which means enrolling may in effect be a second Mississippi traffic fine. On the plus side, traffic school as well as defensive driving courses may lower your monthly insurance payments by a great deal over time.