Get your Arkansas driver's license at a Driver Services office run by the Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration
Arkansas has one state agency that issues driver's licenses: the Driver Services Division of the Department of Finance and Administration. You cannot get a license at a county courthouse, city hall, or third-party vendor — only at an official Driver Services office. There are 17 locations across the state, and you must visit one in person with your documents and payment.
The office you visit does not have to be in your county, though most people choose the one closest to home for convenience. Each location handles the same services: written tests, vision tests, photo, and license issuance. Wait times vary by location and time of day, but visiting early in the morning or mid-week typically means shorter lines.
Key Takeaways
- Arkansas Driver Services offices are located in 17 cities across the state, and you must visit one in person — there is no online or mail option.
- You need a valid form of identification, proof of residency, your Social Security number, and payment (cash, check, or card accepted at most locations).
- The main office in Little Rock is open Monday through Friday, and most branch offices have similar hours, though some close for lunch.
- You can find the full list of office addresses, phone numbers, and hours on the Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration website.
- Bring original documents, not copies — the staff will not accept photocopies of your ID or proof of residency.
The 17 Driver Services office locations across Arkansas
The main Driver Services office is located in Little Rock at 1900 West Seventh Street. This is the largest office and handles all services, including commercial driver's license (CDL) testing. The other 16 branch offices are spread across the state in cities including Fayetteville, Fort Smith, Jonesboro, Pine Bluff, Texarkana, Hot Springs, Russellville, Magnolia, Batesville, Searcy, Arkadelphia, Monticello, Springdale, Conway, Sheridan, and Morrilton.
Each branch office serves the surrounding region and handles standard driver's license services. However, not all branches offer CDL testing or renewal of certain endorsements — if you need a commercial license or a specialized endorsement, call ahead to confirm the branch can handle your request. The Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration website lists each office with its street address, phone number, and current hours of operation.
You do not need an appointment at most locations, though some offices now offer optional online scheduling to reduce wait time. Check the website or call the office you plan to visit to see if scheduling is available there.
Documents you must bring to the office
Arkansas requires original documents — photocopies are not accepted. You will need proof of identity, proof of residency, and your Social Security number. For proof of identity, bring one of these: a valid passport, a military ID, a birth certificate, a tribal ID, or a foreign national ID with a visa or work permit.
For proof of residency, bring a recent utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, bank statement, or government mail with your current address. The document must show your name and address and be dated within the last 60 days. If you do not have a utility bill or lease in your name, a letter from your landlord or a recent property tax bill will work.
Bring your Social Security card or a document showing your full Social Security number. If you do not have your card, a tax return, W-2, or 1099 form will work. You will also need to bring payment: Arkansas charges a fee for a new license, and most offices accept cash, check, and debit or credit card.
What to expect during your visit
When you arrive, you will check in at the front desk and receive a number. Staff will review your documents to confirm they meet the requirements. If anything is missing or incorrect, they will tell you what you need to bring back. If your documents are in order, you will take a written test (unless you are renewing), a vision test, and a photo.
The written test covers road signs, right-of-way rules, and safe driving practices. You can study using the Arkansas Driver's Manual, which is free on the Department of Finance and Administration website. The vision test checks that you can see clearly enough to drive safely. The photo is taken on the spot and printed on your license.
After you pass the tests and pay the fee, your license is printed when ready. You will receive it before you leave the office. The entire process usually takes 30 minutes to an hour, depending on how busy the office is and whether you pass the written test on your first try.
Fees and payment methods
Arkansas charges different fees depending on the type of license and how long it is valid. A standard driver's license is less expensive than a commercial license. Renewal fees are lower than fees for a new license. The exact amount varies, so call your local Driver Services office or check the website for the current fee.
Most offices accept cash, personal check, and debit or credit card. A few smaller branch offices may accept only cash or check, so call ahead if you want to confirm payment methods. If you pay by check, write it to the Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration.
Hours of operation and how to contact an office
The main Little Rock office is typically open Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., with a lunch break from noon to 1:00 p.m. Branch offices have similar hours, though some may close earlier or have different lunch times. A few branch offices are open on Saturday mornings, but this varies by location.
To find the exact hours for the office nearest you, visit the Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration website and select your county or city. You can also call the office directly — the phone number is listed on the website. If you call, ask about current wait times and whether the office is accepting walk-ins or if you need to schedule ahead.
What to do if you cannot visit in person
Arkansas does not offer online or mail-in driver's license services. You must visit a Driver Services office in person. However, if you are unable to travel due to a medical condition or disability, contact your local office to ask about accommodations. Some offices may be able to arrange a special appointment or provide other options.
If you are a member of the military stationed outside Arkansas, you may be able to renew your license by mail or through a military installation. Contact the Driver Services office to ask about military options before your license expires.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my license at any Driver Services office, or does it have to be the one in my county?
You can renew at any of the 17 Driver Services offices in Arkansas, regardless of which county you live in. Choose whichever location is most convenient for you. The process is the same at every office.
Do I need to bring my old license to get a new one?
Bring your old license if you have it, but it is not required. If you have lost your license, bring your other documents (ID, proof of residency, Social Security number) and staff will issue a replacement. You will pay a replacement fee, which is usually lower than the fee for a new license.
What if I fail the written test?
You can retake the written test the same day at most offices. There is usually a small fee for each retake. Study the Arkansas Driver's Manual before you return, and ask staff if they can point out which topics gave you trouble.
How long does it take to get a license after I pass the test?
Your license is printed on the spot and given to you before you leave the office. You do not have to wait for it to arrive by mail. You can drive legally as soon as you receive it.
What if my address has changed since my last license?
Bring proof of your new address (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days) along with your other documents. The staff will update your address during your visit, and your new license will show the correct address.