Where to go and what to bring

In Arkansas, you replace a lost or damaged driver's license at your local Department of Finance and Administration (DFA) driver services office. There are 42 locations across the state, including offices in Little Rock, Fayetteville, Hot Springs, Jonesboro, and most county seats. You can find the office nearest you and check its hours on the DFA website.

Bring your Social Security number, proof of citizenship (a birth certificate, passport, or naturalization papers), and proof of your current address (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within 60 days). If you're replacing a license because it was damaged, bring what remains of the old card. If it was lost, you don't need to bring it — just tell the staff member at the counter.

You will also need to pass an eye test at the office. Bring glasses or contacts if you use them. The eye test is quick and included in the replacement fee.

Key Takeaways

  • Visit any DFA driver services office in Arkansas with your Social Security number, proof of citizenship, and proof of address.
  • The replacement fee is $24.50 for a standard license and $34.50 for a REAL ID-compliant license, paid at the time of your visit.
  • Your new license is mailed to the address you provide at the office, usually arriving within 7 to 10 business days.
  • If you need to drive before your new license arrives, you can request a temporary paper permit valid for 45 days.
  • Renewal and replacement are separate transactions — replacing a lost license does not extend your expiration date.

Cost and payment method

A standard replacement license costs $24.50. If you want a REAL ID-compliant license (required for federal building access and domestic air travel after May 7, 2025), the fee is $34.50. Both prices are current as of 2024 and are paid in cash or card at the office when you complete your replacement.

Arkansas does not charge extra for a replacement due to loss or damage — the fee is the same whether your license was stolen, worn out, or destroyed. There are no online payment options; you must pay in person at the office.

Timeline for receiving your new license

After you complete your replacement at the DFA office, your new license is printed and mailed to the address you provide. Standard delivery takes 7 to 10 business days. During busy periods or if there are processing delays, it may take up to two weeks.

You can track your order status by calling the DFA driver services line or visiting the office where you applied. If your license does not arrive within two weeks, contact the office to confirm the mailing address was correct.

Getting a temporary permit while you wait

If you need to drive before your new license arrives, ask the staff member at the DFA office for a temporary paper permit. This is issued on the spot at no additional cost and is valid for 45 days. It serves as proof of your right to drive and is recognized by law enforcement.

The temporary permit is printed on plain paper and should be carried with you whenever you drive. It is not a replacement for your license — once your permanent license arrives, the temporary permit is no longer valid.

REAL ID versus standard license

Arkansas offers two types of replacement licenses: standard and REAL ID-compliant. A standard license costs $24.50 and works for driving and state identification. A REAL ID license costs $34.50 and meets federal requirements for boarding domestic flights and entering federal buildings.

As of May 7, 2025, a standard license will not be accepted for domestic air travel — you will need either a REAL ID license or a passport. If you fly domestically or enter federal buildings, a REAL ID replacement is the better choice. The process process is identical; the only difference is the fee and what the card says.

What happens if you cannot visit an office in person

Arkansas does not offer mail-in or online replacement for lost licenses. You must visit a DFA driver services office in person to complete the replacement. There is no exception for residents who live out of state or cannot travel.

If you live far from an office, you can visit any DFA location in the state — you are not required to go to the office in your county. Some residents choose to visit an office during a trip home or ask a family member to handle the replacement on their behalf, though you will need to sign a power of attorney form if someone else applies for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can someone else replace my license for me?

Yes, if you sign a power of attorney form authorizing them to do so. The person acting on your behalf must bring the completed form, your Social Security number, proof of your citizenship, proof of your address, and a photo ID of their own. The DFA website has the power of attorney form available to read.

What if my address has changed since my last license?

Provide your current address when you explore for the replacement. Your new license will be mailed to that address. You do not need to update your address separately — the replacement process handles it.

Do I need to take a written test or driving test to replace my license?

No. Replacement requires only an eye test, which is done at the office. You do not retake the written or driving test unless your license was suspended or revoked.

Will my new license have the same number as my old one?

Yes. Your license number stays the same when you replace a lost or damaged card. The expiration date also remains the same — replacement does not renew your license or extend when it expires.

What if I lost my license out of state?

You still must visit an Arkansas DFA office to replace it. If you are living or traveling out of state, you will need to return to Arkansas or have someone with power of attorney visit an office on your behalf.