How to Renew Your Arkansas Driver's License

What You Need to Do to Renew in Arkansas

You can renew your Arkansas driver's license by mail, online, or in person at a driver services office. Mail and online renewals are the fastest routes if you meet the requirements — you'll need a current license that hasn't been suspended or revoked, and you must be renewing before it expires or within a short window after expiration. If your license was suspended, revoked, or you need to change information like your address or name, you must go in person.

Arkansas allows you to renew up to one year before your license expires, so you don't have to wait until the last moment. The state charges a renewal fee that varies depending on whether you choose a standard license or a REAL ID-compliant license (required for federal buildings and domestic flights starting in 2025).

Key Takeaways

You can renew by mail or online if your license is current and in good standing, but in-person renewal is required if your license is suspended, revoked, or you're changing your name or address.
Arkansas lets you renew up to one year before expiration, so you have time to plan without rushing.
A REAL ID license costs more than a standard license but is required for federal building access and domestic flights after May 2025.
Mail renewal takes about two weeks; online renewal is faster but has stricter requirements about which licenses may have access to.

Renewing by Mail

Mail renewal is available if your current license is valid and you're not changing any personal information. You'll need to send in your current license, the renewal form (DL 43), a check or money order for the renewal fee, and proof of your Social Security number if this is your first renewal or if your number has changed. The form is available on the Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration website, or you can request one by calling the driver services office.

Mail your packet to the address listed on the form. Processing takes about two weeks from the time the office receives it. Your new license will arrive by mail at the address on file. If you're moving, update your address in person or online before you mail in your renewal, because the new license will go to your current address on record.

Renewing Online

Online renewal through the Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration website is the fastest option if you meet the requirements. You can renew online only if your license is current, you're not changing your name or address, and you have a valid email address. You'll pay the renewal fee by credit or debit card during the process.

After you complete the online renewal, your new license will be mailed to the address on file. The state typically processes online renewals within a few business days. This method works well if you're staying in the same place and don't need to update any information on your license.

Renewing in Person at a Driver Services Office

You must renew in person if your license is suspended or revoked, if you're changing your name or address, or if you need a REAL ID license and want to verify your identity in person. Bring your current license, proof of your Social Security number (Social Security card, W-2, or tax return), and proof of your current address (utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days). If you're changing your name, bring a certified copy of the document that shows the change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order.

Visit any Arkansas driver services office during business hours. You'll fill out the renewal form, have your photo taken, and pay the renewal fee in cash, check, or card. Your new license will be mailed to you within about two weeks. Some offices accept walk-ins, but many operate by appointment; check the office locator on the Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration website to see what your local office requires.

Understanding REAL ID and Standard License Costs

Arkansas offers two types of driver's licenses: a standard license and a REAL ID-compliant license. A standard license costs less but cannot be used for federal building access or domestic air travel after May 7, 2025. A REAL ID license costs more but meets federal requirements and will work for all travel and federal building entry.

If you're renewing by mail or online, you'll choose which type you want when you submit your renewal. If you're renewing in person, the office staff can explain the difference and help you decide. Many people choose REAL ID during renewal to avoid having to renew again in a few years when the federal important date becomes strict.

What Happens If Your License Has Expired

If your license expired fewer than five years ago, you can still renew it through the mail or online using the same process as a current license. If your license expired more than five years ago, you must renew in person and may need to retake the written test and vision test, depending on how long it's been expired. Call your local driver services office to ask what tests you'll need before you go in.

Driving with an expired license is illegal in Arkansas, even if you've submitted a renewal process. If you're waiting for your new license to arrive, carry a copy of your renewal confirmation or receipt as proof that you've renewed.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to renew my Arkansas driver's license?

The renewal fee varies depending on the type of license and how long it's valid for. A standard four-year license costs less than a REAL ID license. Contact your local driver services office or check the Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration website for the exact current fee, as it may change.

Can I renew my license if I have an outstanding traffic ticket or fine?

Outstanding tickets or unpaid fines may prevent you from renewing your license. If you're unsure whether you have any holds on your record, call your local driver services office before you submit your renewal. They can tell you whether anything is blocking your renewal.

What if I need to change my address when I renew?

If you're renewing by mail or online, you cannot change your address at the same time — you'll need to renew in person. Visit a driver services office with proof of your new address (utility bill, lease, or bank statement from the last 60 days) and your current license. The office will update your address and issue your new license.

How long does it take to get my new license after I renew?

Mail and online renewals take about two weeks from processing. In-person renewals also take about two weeks for the new license to arrive by mail. If you need to drive before your new license arrives, keep a copy of your renewal receipt or confirmation as proof of renewal.

Do I need a REAL ID license if I only drive in Arkansas?

You only need a REAL ID license if you plan to fly domestically or enter a federal building after May 7, 2025. If you only drive within Arkansas and don't travel by air, a standard license is sufficient. However, many people choose REAL ID during renewal to avoid renewing again soon.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.