Documents and identification required for an Arkansas driver's license

To get an Arkansas driver's license, you will need to bring proof of identity, proof of residency, and your Social Security number to a Department of Finance and Administration (DFA) driver services office. The state accepts a narrow list of documents for each category, and bringing the wrong documents means a second trip.

For proof of identity, Arkansas accepts a U.S. passport, passport card, certified birth certificate, or an unexpired military ID. If you are using a birth certificate, it must be a certified copy with the state seal — a photocopy or hospital-issued certificate will not work. The document must show your full legal name and date of birth.

Proof of residency requires a document dated within the last 60 days showing your name and current Arkansas address. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, property tax bill, or a bank or credit card statement. A phone bill or insurance bill also works. If you live with someone else, a letter from that person on their utility bill with their signature is acceptable, though you will also need to bring that person's ID.

Key Takeaways

  • You must bring a certified birth certificate, U.S. passport, passport card, or military ID as proof of identity — photocopies and hospital birth certificates are not accepted.
  • Proof of residency must be dated within the last 60 days and show your name and current address, such as a utility bill or lease agreement.
  • You will need your Social Security number and must pass a vision test and written knowledge test at the DFA office.
  • First-time applicants under 18 must have a parent or guardian present with their own ID, and the state may require a certified driving record from any previous state.
  • Fees vary by license type and duration; a standard four-year license costs less than an eight-year license.

Testing requirements and what to expect at the DFA office

When you arrive at the DFA driver services office, you will take a vision test and a written knowledge test. The vision test checks that you can see well enough to drive safely; if you wear glasses or contacts, bring them. The written test covers Arkansas traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You can study using the Arkansas Driver's License Study Guide, which is available free on the DFA website.

If you are renewing a license and have not had any violations or suspensions, you may not need to retake the written test — the office will tell you when you call or visit. First-time drivers and anyone with a lapsed license will take both tests. The written test is typically 50 questions, and you must answer at least 80 percent correctly to pass.

After you pass both tests, you will have your photo taken for the license. Wear something you are comfortable being photographed in; the DFA has specific rules about head coverings and backgrounds, but standard clothing is fine. Your license will be mailed to the address you provide, usually within 7 to 10 business days.

Age-specific rules for minors and first-time drivers

If you are under 18, a parent or legal guardian must be present when you explore. That parent or guardian must bring their own ID. Arkansas also requires anyone under 18 to hold a learner's permit for at least 14 days before taking the road test for a full license, and you must have held that permit for at least 50 hours of supervised driving — 10 of those hours at night.

Minors are also subject to the Graduated Driver License (GDL) program. During the first six months after you receive your license, you cannot drive between midnight and 4 a.m. unless a parent, guardian, or licensed driver 21 or older is in the vehicle. After six months, the restriction lifts to 1 a.m. to 5 a.m. These restrictions end when you turn 18 or after one year, whichever comes first.

License types and how long they last

Arkansas offers several license types depending on your age and needs. A standard driver's license for someone 21 or older is valid for four or eight years, depending on which you choose. The eight-year license costs more but means fewer trips to renew. If you are 18 to 20, your license is valid for four years. Minors under 18 receive a license valid until their 18th birthday.

The state also issues commercial driver's licenses (CDL) for people who drive large trucks or buses for work, and motorcycle endorsements if you ride a motorcycle. These have separate testing and fee requirements. If you need a CDL or endorsement, the DFA office can tell you what additional documents and tests you will need.

Fees and payment methods

The cost of an Arkansas driver's license depends on the type and length. A four-year standard license costs less than an eight-year license. Renewal fees are lower than first-time fees. The DFA office accepts cash, check, and debit or credit card. Exact fees are listed on the DFA website and can also be confirmed by calling your local office, since fees occasionally change.

If you are replacing a lost or damaged license, you will pay a replacement fee, which is typically lower than a renewal fee. If you change your name due to marriage or court order, you will need to bring a certified copy of the marriage certificate or court order along with your current license.

Finding a DFA driver services office and what to bring

Arkansas has DFA driver services offices in most counties. You can find the office nearest you on the DFA website by entering your county or city. Some offices are open Monday through Friday during standard business hours; a few have extended hours or Saturday appointments. Call ahead or check online to confirm hours, because some offices close for lunch or have limited schedules.

Bring all your documents in originals — the DFA will not accept photocopies of your birth certificate, ID, or residency proof. Bring your Social Security card or know your number by heart. If you are a non-citizen with work authorization, bring your Employment Authorization Document (EAD) or visa. If you are a non-citizen without work authorization, Arkansas will issue a license but will note it on the card.

Arrive early, especially on Fridays or the first of the month, when offices are busier. Bring a pen in case you need to fill out forms by hand. The office will provide the process form, but having one ahead of time from the DFA website can speed things up.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a driver's license if I do not have a birth certificate?

If you do not have a certified birth certificate, you can use a U.S. passport, passport card, or military ID instead. If you have none of these, you will need to obtain a certified birth certificate from the state where you were born before you can get an Arkansas license. That process takes several weeks and costs a fee.

What if I moved to Arkansas from another state and still have an out-of-state license?

You must get an Arkansas license within 30 days of moving to the state. Bring your current out-of-state license along with your proof of identity and residency. You will still take the vision test, but you may not need to retake the written test if your out-of-state license is valid and you have no violations. Call your local DFA office to ask.

Do I need to take the written test again if I am renewing my license?

If your license is not expired and you have no suspensions or violations, you usually do not need to retake the written test. However, if your license has been expired for more than a year, or if you have had violations, you will need to retake it. The DFA office will tell you when you call or visit.

What happens if I fail the written test?

You can retake the test the same day or return another day. There is usually a small fee for each retake. You have a limited number of attempts before you must wait a certain period before trying again; ask the office staff what the current policy is when you take the test.

Can I get a license if I do not have a Social Security number?

Arkansas requires a Social Security number to get a driver's license. If you are a non-citizen and do not have a Social Security number, you will need to explore for an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) from the IRS first. Bring your ITIN documentation to the DFA office along with your other required documents.