In a release Wednesday, the Mississippi Department of Public Safety said anyone visiting one of the state’s driver license offices must wear a mask beginning Monday, July 13.

Before Wednesday’s announcement, face coverings were strongly encouraged, but not required.

In order to help the offices run safely and more efficiently, customers are also being asked to follow proper social distancing protocols while waiting to be served.

“We have to be diligent in our efforts to limit transmission of the virus,” said DPS Public Safety Commissioner Sean Tindell. “We also feel it is imperative to require a facemask be worn by all patrons and personnel inside driver license offices to accomplish that goal.”

Each station location will continue following the daily schedule according to the first letter of customers’ last names:

• Monday — A-E

• Tuesday — F-L

• Wednesday — Firearm permits, security guard permits, renewals and duplicates

• Thursday — M-S

• Friday — T-Z

In order to limit exposure, customers can take advantage of the online services by visiting www.dps.ms.gov and the Driver Service Bureau link.