This comprehensive guide to Mississippi traffic laws provides clear, actionable explanations of the most commonly searched driving rules in the Magnolia State. Whether you're navigating I-55 through Jackson, I-10 along the Gulf Coast through Gulfport and Biloxi, I-20 from Vicksburg to Meridian, I-59 through Hattiesburg, or scenic highways through the Mississippi Delta and Natchez Trace Parkway, understanding Mississippi-specific traffic regulations helps you stay safe and avoid costly violations. From double yellow line rules to school bus stop requirements, DUI regulations, speed limits, roundabout navigation, open container laws, and right-of-way at four-way stops—every section references the official Mississippi Code (MS Code) and guidance from the Mississippi Department of Public Safety (MDPS), Mississippi Highway Patrol (MHP), and Mississippi Department of Transportation (MDOT). This is educational information, not legal advice; always obey posted signs, signals, and directions from law enforcement.
Mississippi highways including I-55, I-10, I-20, I-59, and rural Delta roads require strict adherence to lane markings and traffic laws.
In Mississippi, double solid yellow centerlines mark a no-passing zone where vehicles traveling in either direction are prohibited from crossing into the opposing lane to overtake another vehicle. According to MS Code § 63-3-603, these markings appear on curves, hills, bridges, narrow two-lane roads through rural areas, and locations where sight distance is limited. Violating this law can result in fines ranging from $100 to $500, plus 3 points on your Mississippi driving record and potential insurance premium increases. Mississippi Highway Patrol actively enforces no-passing zones on I-55, I-10, I-20, I-59, US-49, US-61, US-82, Natchez Trace Parkway, and rural county roads throughout the Delta region, Pine Belt, and Gulf Coast.
Legal Exceptions: When You May Cross Double Yellow Lines in Mississippi
Mississippi law recognizes several limited exceptions where drivers may legally cross double solid yellow lines:
Left turns into driveways and private roads: You may cross double yellow lines when making a left turn into a residential driveway, business entrance, farm road, plantation access, or private property, provided it is safe and no oncoming traffic is present.
Avoiding obstructions in your lane: When a temporary obstruction blocks your lane—such as a disabled vehicle, fallen tree or debris from storms, road damage, agricultural equipment, wildlife (deer, alligator), or accident scene—you may briefly cross the centerline if the opposing lane is clear and the maneuver can be done safely.
Following official directions: When law enforcement officers, Mississippi Highway Patrol, traffic control personnel, emergency responders, or road construction flaggers direct you to cross the centerline, you must follow their instructions.
Passing bicycles with adequate clearance: Mississippi law allows drivers to cross double yellow lines to pass bicycles when at least 3 feet of clearance can be provided, the opposing lane is clear, and the maneuver can be completed safely.
These exceptions do not permit passing slow-moving vehicles, farm tractors traveling under their own power, or general traffic congestion. The maneuver must be necessary, brief, and safe for all road users.
I-55 Through Mississippi: Memphis to Jackson to New Orleans Corridor
Interstate 55 runs 291 miles through Mississippi from the Tennessee border at Southaven (Memphis metro) through DeSoto County, Grenada, Jackson metro, Brookhaven, and McComb to the Louisiana border. This critical north-south artery carries heavy commercial truck traffic, commuters, and tourists. While I-55 uses white lane markings, double yellow lines appear on entrance/exit ramps, service roads, and connector routes. The I-55/I-20 interchange in Jackson (the junction of Mississippi's two major interstates) experiences significant congestion during rush hours and requires careful lane discipline. Mississippi Highway Patrol maintains active speed and lane enforcement, particularly during holiday travel periods including Thanksgiving, Christmas, Mardi Gras season, and summer tourism.
The Mississippi Delta region—stretching from Memphis to Vicksburg—features flat, agricultural landscapes with long straight highways including US-49 (Blues Highway) and US-61 (Great River Road). These two-lane highways have extensive double yellow no-passing zones despite appearing to have good visibility, particularly near intersections, towns (Clarksdale, Cleveland, Indianola, Greenwood, Yazoo City), bridges over bayous and rivers, and railroad crossings. Mississippi law prohibits passing across double yellow lines even when behind slow-moving farm equipment during planting and harvest seasons (March-May and September-November)—wait for a legal passing zone marked with dashed yellow lines. Watch for deer, especially at dawn and dusk, as vehicle-wildlife collisions are common in this region.
Mississippi law prohibits passing across double yellow lines but allows left turns into driveways when safe.
Mississippi Right Turn on Red & Traffic Signal Laws
Mississippi Code § 63-3-407: Right on Red After Complete Stop
Mississippi law permits right turns on red signals after coming to a complete stop at the stop line, crosswalk, or intersection edge, unless a "NO TURN ON RED" sign prohibits it. Before turning, drivers must:
Come to a full stop—your vehicle must reach zero miles per hour
Yield to pedestrians in or approaching the crosswalk
Yield to all vehicles and cyclists with the right-of-way
Check for "NO TURN ON RED" signs, which may apply at all times or during specific hours
Ensure the turn can be made safely without interfering with traffic flow
Rolling through the stop or blocking the crosswalk is a common violation. Mississippi courts treat incomplete stops seriously, with fines typically ranging from $100 to $250 plus court costs and 3 points on your license.
Jackson Metro & Gulf Coast: No Turn on Red Restrictions
Downtown Jackson intersections near the State Capitol, Jackson Convention Complex, and busy commercial corridors along County Line Road and I-55 frontage roads frequently post "NO TURN ON RED" signs due to heavy pedestrian traffic and complex signal timing. Similarly, Gulfport and Biloxi intersections near the Gulf Coast casinos, beach boulevards (US-90), and tourist areas restrict turns on red to protect pedestrians and maintain traffic flow. Hattiesburg intersections near University of Southern Mississippi (USM) campus, Tupelo near downtown and Elvis Presley birthplace area, and Meridian near downtown entertainment districts also maintain no-turn-on-red zones. Always read supplemental plaques—some restrictions apply only during special events.
Left Turn on Red in Mississippi: One-Way to One-Way Streets
Mississippi permits left turns on red from one-way streets onto other one-way streets, provided you come to a complete stop, yield to pedestrians and traffic, and no sign prohibits the turn. This scenario occurs primarily in downtown Jackson, older sections of Vicksburg, and historic downtown Natchez. Before attempting a left turn on red, verify that both streets are one-way in the appropriate directions and check for prohibitive signage.
Mississippi Traffic Signal Timing & Yellow Light Duration
Mississippi traffic signals follow MDOT and Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) guidelines for yellow (amber) light timing, typically 3-5 seconds depending on intersection speed limits and approach geometry. If you are already in the intersection when the light turns red, complete your movement safely. Entering on yellow is legal if you cannot stop safely; entering on red is a violation subject to citation. Mississippi does not currently use automated red light cameras statewide, but enforcement by Mississippi Highway Patrol and local police remains active at high-violation intersections.
School Zone Traffic Signals: Flashing Yellow Lights & Speed Limits
Mississippi school zones use flashing yellow beacons to indicate reduced speed limits when children are present, typically 15-20 mph during school hours (usually 7-8:30 AM and 2:30-4 PM on school days). Some school zones use flashing red signals requiring a complete stop when activated. Always observe posted school zone speed limits— violations in school zones carry doubled fines ($200-$500), 3 points on your license, and possible community service requirements.
Mississippi has numerous four-way stop intersections in rural areas, small towns, and residential neighborhoods. Right-of-way rules at all-way stops follow standard protocol: the first vehicle to reach the intersection and come to a complete stop has right-of-way; if two vehicles arrive simultaneously, the vehicle on the right has priority; if vehicles arrive from opposite directions simultaneously and one is turning left, the through vehicle (or right-turning vehicle) has priority. Always come to a complete stop at the stop line or crosswalk—"rolling stops" or "California stops" are violations subject to $75-$200 fines and 3 points. Four-way stops are particularly common in Mississippi Delta towns and on county roads throughout the state.
In Mississippi, always stop fully and yield to pedestrians before making a right turn on red.
Mississippi School Bus Stop Laws & Severe Penalties
Mississippi Code § 63-3-615: Stopping for School Buses
Mississippi enforces strict school bus stop laws to protect children. When a school bus activates flashing red lights and extends its stop arm, the following rules apply under MS Code § 63-3-615:
Undivided roads (no median): All vehicles traveling in both directions must stop at least 10 feet from the bus and remain stopped until the red lights stop flashing and the stop arm retracts.
Divided highways (physical median or barrier): Only traffic traveling in the same direction as the bus must stop. Opposing traffic on the other side of a physical divider may proceed cautiously.
Multi-lane roads without median: All lanes in both directions must stop. Painted turn lanes or double yellow lines do not count as physical dividers.
Passing a stopped school bus is a serious violation in Mississippi. First-offense penalties include fines ranging from $350 to $750, possible license suspension for 30-90 days, mandatory driver improvement course, and 3-6 points on your license. Second offense within five years carries fines up to $1,000, license suspension up to six months, and possible criminal charges. Violations resulting in injury or death to a child can result in felony charges with substantial prison time.
Mississippi School Bus Camera Programs: Stop-Arm Video Enforcement
Many Mississippi school districts equip buses with exterior stop-arm cameras that record license plates of vehicles illegally passing stopped buses. Video footage is reviewed by local law enforcement or Mississippi Highway Patrol, who issue citations to registered owners. Camera-based enforcement has increased throughout DeSoto County (Southaven, Olive Branch), Jackson metro, Harrison County (Gulfport, Biloxi), Rankin County, Madison County, and rural school districts. Mississippi law authorizes automated enforcement with registered owner liability. Expect strict enforcement during morning (6:30-8:30 AM) and afternoon (2-4 PM) school hours on all roads.
Flashing Yellow vs Flashing Red School Bus Signals
Mississippi school buses first activate flashing yellow (amber) lights approximately 200-300 feet before the intended stop to warn drivers that the bus is preparing to stop for children. You should slow down and prepare to stop but are not yet legally required to do so. Once the flashing red lightsactivate and the stop arm extends, you must come to a complete stop. Do not proceed until the red lights stop flashing, the stop arm retracts, and children are clear of the roadway.
Enhanced Penalties for School Bus Violations Causing Injury
Mississippi imposes severe penalties if passing a stopped school bus results in injury or death. Violations causing bodily injury can result in misdemeanor or felony charges with fines up to $5,000 and up to five years in prison. Violations resulting in death can be prosecuted as felonies with substantially higher penalties including multiple years imprisonment and permanent license revocation. Always stop for school buses—children's safety depends on full compliance with stop-arm laws.
On undivided Mississippi roads, all traffic in both directions must stop when a school bus displays flashing red lights.
School zones: 15-20 mph when children are present (flashing beacons active)
Always obey posted signs, which supersede default limits. Speed limits can change frequently based on road conditions, construction zones, weather (hurricanes, tropical storms, flooding), and traffic patterns.
Troopers use stationary radar, moving patrol, and LIDAR. Mississippi has a reputation for strict speed enforcement—expect tickets for 10-15 mph over the limit on rural interstates. Speed limit enforcement also generates significant revenue for municipalities, so be especially cautious in small towns along major highways.
Mississippi Basic Speed Law: Reasonable and Prudent Speed
In addition to maximum speed limits, Mississippi enforces a basic speed law requiring drivers to operate at speeds reasonable and prudent for current road, traffic, and weather conditions (MS Code § 63-3-501). This means you can be cited for driving too fast for conditions even if you're under the posted speed limit. Factors include:
Heavy rain, thunderstorms, hurricanes, tropical storms, fog, or reduced visibility
Flooding on roadways (common in Delta lowlands and coastal areas)
Heavy traffic or congestion during special events
Road construction or maintenance activity
Narrow roads, curves, or bridges
Wildlife on roadway (deer, wild hogs, alligators in coastal areas)
Mississippi experiences severe weather including hurricanes, tropical storms, tornadoes, flash flooding, and severe thunderstorms. Always reduce speed appropriately for conditions—failure to do so can result in citations for "driving too fast for conditions" plus liability for any resulting accidents.
Work Zone Speed Limits & Increased Penalties
Mississippi law authorizes increased fines for speeding in highway work zones when workers are present (MS Code § 63-3-513). Work zones are marked by orange construction signs, cones, barrels, and reduced speed limits (typically 45-55 mph on highways). MDOT posts "FINES DOUBLED IN WORK ZONES" or "SPEED LIMIT ENFORCED BY RADAR" signs to warn drivers. A typical speeding ticket might cost $150; in an active work zone with workers present, the fine can double to $300 plus court costs and points. Additionally, Mississippi has enacted enhanced penalties for speeding violations in work zones that endanger highway workers.
Natchez Trace Parkway: National Park Service Speed Enforcement
The Natchez Trace Parkway is a 444-mile scenic highway running from Natchez, Mississippi to Nashville, Tennessee, with approximately 310 miles within Mississippi. This National Park Service road has a strictly enforced 50 mph speed limit throughout its entire length, with no exceptions. Commercial trucks and vehicles are prohibited. National Park Service rangers issue federal citations for speeding, which appear in federal court (not Mississippi courts) and carry substantial fines. The Parkway has no traffic signals, no development, and limited services—plan accordingly. The scenic, winding nature of the road and wildlife crossings (deer, wild turkey) make the 50 mph limit appropriate. Photography, hiking, and historic site access make this one of Mississippi's premier scenic drives—observe the speed limit and enjoy the journey.
During hurricane threats to the Mississippi Gulf Coast, MDOT activates evacuation routes on I-10, I-59, US-49, and US-90. Contraflow operations may reverse inbound lanes to create additional outbound capacity on I-59 northbound from the coast. Evacuation speed limits are typically reduced (45-55 mph) with zero tolerance for speeding, reckless driving, or lane violations. Mississippi Highway Patrol, National Guard, and emergency management personnel enforce traffic laws strictly during evacuations. Running out of fuel during evacuation is prohibited—fuel up before evacuating and follow official evacuation routes posted by MDOT and Mississippi Emergency Management Agency (MEMA). Hurricane season runs June through November, with peak threat in August-October.
Mississippi DUI Laws & Implied Consent Requirements
Mississippi Code § 63-11-30: Driving Under the Influence
Mississippi prohibits driving under the influence (DUI) with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of0.08% or higher for drivers 21 and over, 0.02% or higher for drivers under 21 (Zero Tolerance law), and 0.04% or higher for commercial drivers (MS Code § 63-11-30). Even if your BAC is below the legal limit, you can still be charged with DUI if alcohol or drugs have impaired your ability to drive safely. Mississippi courts take DUI offenses seriously, particularly given the state's history of alcohol-related traffic fatalities.
First-Offense DUI Penalties in Mississippi
A first-time DUI conviction in Mississippi carries:
Fines: $250-$1,000 plus court costs, fees, and surcharges
Jail time: Up to 48 hours (may be suspended with conditions)
License suspension: 90 days (30 days hard suspension, remainder may be eligible for hardship license)
Possible ignition interlock device (IID): May be required for hardship license or as condition of probation
If your BAC is 0.16% or higher on first offense (aggravated DUI), penalties increase significantly including higher fines, longer jail time, extended license suspension, and mandatory ignition interlock device. Penalties increase substantially for repeat offenses, refusal to submit to chemical testing, DUI incidents involving accidents, injuries, child endangerment (child under 16 in vehicle), or property damage.
Mississippi Implied Consent Law & Chemical Test Refusal
Under Mississippi implied consent law (MS Code § 63-11-5), by driving on Mississippi roads you automatically consent to chemical testing (breath, blood, or urine) if lawfully arrested for DUI. Refusing the test results in automatic administrative penalties:
First refusal: 90-day license suspension
Second refusal within five years: 2-year suspension
Third or subsequent refusal: 3-year suspension
Refusal does not prevent prosecution—the state can still charge you with DUI based on officer observations, field sobriety tests, and other evidence. Refusal can be used against you in court and typically results in harsher penalties if convicted. Additionally, refusing the test may prevent eligibility for certain diversion programs or reduced charges.
Mississippi Open Container Law & Passenger Drinking
Mississippi has historically had unique open container laws, though regulations have tightened in recent years. Under MS Code § 67-3-70, Mississippi now prohibits open containers of alcohol in the passenger area of motor vehicles on public roads. Violations carry fines up to $100. However, open containers in the trunk, locked glove compartment, or areas not accessible to the driver or passengers are permitted. Some Mississippi municipalities have additional open container restrictions. Passengers drinking alcohol in a vehicle can create probable cause for DUI investigation of the driver. The safest practice is to keep all alcohol sealed and inaccessible while driving.
Mississippi Roundabout Rules & Modern Traffic Circles
Navigating Mississippi Roundabouts: Yield to Circulating Traffic
Mississippi has increasingly installed modern roundabouts (traffic circles) at key intersections throughout the state to improve traffic flow and safety. Notable roundabouts include locations in Madison, Ridgeland, Oxford (University of Mississippi area), Tupelo, and Hattiesburg. Mississippi roundabout rules follow national standards:
Yield to circulating traffic: Vehicles already in the roundabout have right-of-way. Enter only when there is a safe gap.
Proceed counterclockwise: Always travel to the right (counterclockwise) around the central island.
Use turn signals: Signal right when exiting the roundabout. Do not signal when entering.
Stay in your lane: Multi-lane roundabouts require staying in your lane—do not change lanes within the circle.
Yield to pedestrians: Pedestrians in crosswalks approaching or within the roundabout have priority.
Do not stop inside the roundabout unless traffic conditions require it. Never drive the wrong way or pass other vehicles in the roundabout. Mississippi drivers unfamiliar with roundabouts should slow down, observe yield signs, and enter cautiously. Multi-lane roundabouts are more complex—choose the appropriate lane based on your exit (right lane for first exit, left lane for exits beyond the first) and stay in that lane.
Mississippi Four-Way Stop vs Roundabout: Safety Benefits
Studies show roundabouts reduce severe crashes by up to 80% compared to traditional signalized intersections or four-way stops. Mississippi's increasing adoption of roundabouts at rural highway intersections and suburban developments reflects this safety advantage. However, the learning curve for drivers unfamiliar with roundabouts can create confusion. Always yield, watch for signs indicating multiple lanes, and observe other vehicles' positions. Mississippi Highway Safety Patrol occasionally conducts education campaigns at new roundabout locations to help drivers understand proper navigation.
Official Mississippi Traffic Law Resources & MDPS Information
This guide summarizes common Mississippi traffic rules based on the Mississippi Code (MS Code) and guidance from the Mississippi Department of Public Safety and MDOT. It is not legal advice. Always follow posted signs, signals, and instructions from law enforcement. Consult an attorney for specific legal questions or if you are facing traffic citations or criminal charges.
