What you need to get an Arkansas driver's license
Arkansas issues driver's licenses through the Department of Finance and Administration, Office of Driver Services. To get a license, you must be at least 16 years old, pass a written test on traffic laws, pass a vision test, and pass a driving test. You will also need to bring documents that prove your identity, Social Security number, and Arkansas residency.
The documents you bring depend on whether you are getting your first license, renewing an expired one, or replacing a lost or stolen license. Arkansas accepts a U.S. passport, birth certificate, military ID, or tribal ID as proof of identity. For residency, you can use a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days. You must also bring your Social Security card or a document that shows your number.
If you are under 18, you will need a parent or legal guardian to sign your process in person. Arkansas also requires all applicants to provide their fingerprints at the time of process.
Key Takeaways
- Arkansas driver's licenses are issued by the Department of Finance and Administration, Office of Driver Services, and require proof of identity, Social Security number, and residency.
- You must pass a written test on traffic laws, a vision test, and a driving test before you receive your license.
- Licenses expire every four years for drivers under 65 and every five years for drivers 65 and older.
- You can renew your license by mail, online, or in person at a driver services office, depending on your situation.
- Replacement licenses for lost or stolen cards cost less than a new license and can be ordered by mail or in person.
Where to explore for an Arkansas driver's license
You must explore in person at a driver services office for your first license. Arkansas has multiple regional offices across the state, and you can find the location nearest you on the Department of Finance and Administration website. Bring all required documents and be prepared to spend 30 minutes to an hour at the office, depending on how busy it is.
The main driver services office is located in Little Rock, but there are branch offices in Fayetteville, Fort Smith, Jonesboro, Pine Bluff, and Texarkana. Some county clerk offices also handle driver's license transactions, so you may have a closer option than a regional office. Call ahead to confirm hours and current wait times before you go.
How much an Arkansas driver's license costs
A four-year driver's license costs $24.50 for drivers under 65. A five-year license for drivers 65 and older costs $24.50 as well. These fees cover the cost of the license itself and the tests you take. Arkansas accepts cash, check, and debit or credit card at most offices.
If you need to replace a lost or stolen license, the cost is $11.00. A duplicate license (an extra copy of your current license) costs $11.00. If you need to correct information on your license, such as your name or address, you may need to pay a small fee depending on the type of correction.
How to renew your Arkansas driver's license
You can renew your license online, by mail, or in person, depending on your situation. Online renewal is available if your license is not expired and you have not had any major changes to your information, such as a name change or address change outside Arkansas. To renew online, visit the Department of Finance and Administration website, enter your license number and date of birth, and follow the steps to pay the renewal fee.
If you cannot renew online, you can renew by mail. Fill out the renewal form, include a copy of your current license, and mail it to the address on the form along with the renewal fee. Processing by mail takes about two weeks. If you prefer to renew in person, visit a driver services office with your current license and proof of residency if your address has changed.
Arkansas driver's licenses expire every four years for drivers under 65 and every five years for drivers 65 and older. You will receive a notice in the mail about 60 days before your license expires. You can renew your license up to one year before it expires, so you do not have to wait until the last minute.
What to do if your Arkansas license is suspended or revoked
A driver's license can be suspended or revoked for reasons such as unpaid traffic tickets, driving under the influence, accumulating too many points on your driving record, or failing to pay child support. If your license is suspended, you cannot legally drive. A suspension is usually temporary and your license will be restored after you meet certain conditions, such as paying fines or completing a defensive driving course.
A revocation is more serious and means your license has been permanently cancelled. To get your license back after a revocation, you may need to wait a certain period of time, pay fees, and reapply. You can contact the Office of Driver Services to find out why your license was suspended or revoked and what steps you need to take to restore it.
Getting a Real ID-compliant Arkansas driver's license
A Real ID-compliant license has a gold star in the upper right corner and meets federal standards for identification. You will need a Real ID-compliant license to board a domestic flight or enter a federal building as of May 7, 2025. Arkansas began issuing Real ID licenses in 2017, and all new licenses issued now are Real ID-compliant by default.
If your current license does not have a gold star, you can get a Real ID license by visiting a driver services office in person and bringing the same documents you would need for a new license. The cost is the same as a regular license renewal. You do not need to do anything special to request a Real ID license — the office will issue one automatically when you renew.
Changing your name or address on your Arkansas driver's license
If you change your name due to marriage, divorce, or court order, you must update your license. Bring your current license, a document that proves your name change (such as a marriage certificate or court order), and proof of residency to a driver services office. The fee for a name change is $11.00.
If you move to a new address within Arkansas, you can update your address online if your license is not expired. Visit the Department of Finance and Administration website and enter your license number and date of birth. If you cannot update online, visit a driver services office in person with your current license and proof of your new address. There is no fee to update your address.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get an Arkansas driver's license after I pass the test?
You will receive a temporary license at the driver services office on the day you pass your test. Your permanent license will arrive in the mail within 7 to 10 business days. The temporary license is valid for 45 days and allows you to drive while you wait for your permanent license.
Can I renew my Arkansas driver's license if I am out of state?
Yes, you can renew by mail if your license is not expired and you have not had major changes to your information. Fill out the renewal form, include a copy of your current license, and mail it with the renewal fee to the address on the form. Processing takes about two weeks.
What happens if I fail the driving test in Arkansas?
You can retake the test after waiting one business day. There is no additional fee to retake the test. You can schedule your next test appointment at the driver services office or online through the Department of Finance and Administration website.
Do I need to take the written test again if I renew my Arkansas driver's license?
No, you do not need to retake the written or driving test when you renew your license. You only need to renew by mail, online, or in person with your current license and proof of residency if your address has changed.
Can I get an Arkansas driver's license if I do not have a Social Security number?
Arkansas requires a Social Security number to get a driver's license. If you do not have one, you can contact the Social Security Administration to request one. You will need to provide proof of identity, age, and citizenship or immigration status.