The Arnold License Office handles driver's licenses and ID cards for people in Arnold, Missouri

The Arnold License Office is a Missouri Department of Revenue location where you can get a driver's license, renew an existing one, obtain a state ID card, or handle other license-related transactions. It is a physical office you visit in person — you cannot complete these transactions online or by mail, though you can renew some licenses through the mail if you meet certain conditions.

The office is located in Arnold, which is in Jefferson County, south of St. Louis. If you live in or near Arnold, this is likely your closest option, though the Missouri Department of Revenue runs similar offices throughout the state. Knowing what documents to bring, what the process looks like, and how long it typically takes will help you plan your visit.

Key Takeaways

  • You must visit the Arnold License Office in person to get a new driver's license or state ID card, though some renewals can be done by mail if your license is not expired.
  • Bring your Social Security number, proof of residency (such as a utility bill or lease), and proof of identity (such as a birth certificate or passport) — the exact documents depend on whether you are getting a license for the first time or renewing.
  • The office operates during standard business hours on weekdays; calling ahead or checking the Missouri Department of Revenue website will tell you the exact hours and whether you need an appointment.
  • Processing times vary, but you should expect to spend 30 minutes to an hour at the office, and your new license will be mailed to you within one to two weeks.
  • Fees vary depending on the type of license and how long it is valid; the Missouri Department of Revenue website lists current fees by transaction type.

Documents you need to bring

The documents required depend on whether you are getting a license for the first time, renewing an expired license, or renewing a valid one. For a first-time license, you will need proof of your Social Security number (your Social Security card itself, a W-2 form, or a tax return), proof of identity (an original or certified birth certificate, a U.S. passport, or a military discharge paper), and proof of your current address (a utility bill, lease agreement, bank statement, or government mail dated within the last 60 days).

If you are renewing an expired license, bring your expired license along with the same proof of identity and address. If your license is still valid and you are renewing early, you may be able to renew by mail instead of visiting the office — check the Missouri Department of Revenue website or call the Arnold office to confirm whether you are may be able to access for mail renewal.

Bring the original documents, not photocopies. If any of your documents are not in English, bring both the original and a certified English translation. If you have changed your name since your last license, bring a document proving the change, such as a marriage certificate or court order.

What happens during your visit

When you arrive at the Arnold License Office, you will check in at the front desk and may receive a number or be placed in a queue. You will then wait until your number is called. At the window, the staff member will review your documents, ask you questions to verify your identity and address, and take your photograph and signature for the license.

You will also take a vision test at the office. If you wear glasses or contacts, bring them with you. You may also be asked to take a written test about traffic laws and road signs if you are getting a license for the first time or if your license has been expired for a long time — the staff member will let you know whether this applies to you.

Once everything is complete, you will pay the fee. Your new license will be mailed to the address you provided, usually within one to two weeks. You will receive a temporary paper license at the office that you can use while you wait for the permanent one to arrive.

Hours, location, and how to prepare

The Arnold License Office is open during standard business hours on weekdays. The exact hours change seasonally and may vary, so check the Missouri Department of Revenue website or call the office directly before you go. Many offices now require appointments or operate on a first-come, first-served basis; calling ahead will tell you which system the Arnold office uses and whether you need to schedule a time.

The office is located at 2 Crossings Drive, Arnold, Missouri 63010. If you are driving, allow time to find parking and locate the entrance. Bring all your documents in a folder or envelope so they do not get lost or damaged on the way.

Plan to spend 30 minutes to an hour at the office, depending on how busy it is. Arrive early in the day or on a weekday morning if you can, as offices tend to be less crowded then. Bring a pen in case you need to fill out any forms by hand.

Fees and payment methods

The fee for a driver's license or state ID card depends on the type of license, how long it is valid, and whether you are getting it for the first time or renewing. A standard driver's license valid for six years costs less than one valid for eight years. The Missouri Department of Revenue website lists the current fees for each type of transaction.

The Arnold License Office accepts cash, check, and debit or credit card. Ask the staff member which payment methods they accept when you arrive, in case the office has specific rules about checks or card payments.

If you cannot visit in person

If your current license is still valid and you meet certain conditions, you may be able to renew by mail without visiting the office. You are usually may be able to access for mail renewal if your license is not expired, you have not had any violations or suspensions, and you have not changed your address or name. Contact the Missouri Department of Revenue or the Arnold office directly to find out whether you may have access to.

If you cannot visit the Arnold office because of a disability or other hardship, call the office to ask whether they can make accommodations or whether another location might be easier for you to reach. The Missouri Department of Revenue has offices throughout the state, and some may offer services the Arnold office does not.

What to do if something goes wrong

If your license does not arrive within two weeks, or if you notice an error on it when it does arrive, contact the Missouri Department of Revenue. You can call their main line or visit their website to report the problem. If there is an error on your license, you may be able to get a replacement without paying another fee.

If you were denied a license, the staff member will tell you why and what you can do next. Common reasons include not having the right documents, failing the vision test, or having a suspension or revocation on your record. The Missouri Department of Revenue website explains the steps to take if you have been denied.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my license by mail instead of going to the Arnold office?

You may be able to renew by mail if your license is still valid, you have no violations or suspensions, and your address and name have not changed. Contact the Missouri Department of Revenue or call the Arnold office to confirm whether you are may be able to access. Mail renewal is faster than visiting in person if you may have access to.

What if I do not have a birth certificate?

You can use other documents to prove your identity, such as a U.S. passport, military discharge paper, or naturalization certificate. Bring whichever original document you have. If you do not have any of these, contact the Missouri Department of Revenue to ask what alternatives they accept.

Do I need an appointment at the Arnold License Office?

Some Missouri license offices require appointments, while others operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Call the Arnold office or check the Missouri Department of Revenue website to find out which system they use. If appointments are required and none are available, ask when the next ones open up.

How long does it take to get my license after my visit?

Your new license is usually mailed to you within one to two weeks. You will receive a temporary paper license at the office that you can use while you wait. If your license does not arrive after two weeks, contact the Missouri Department of Revenue to report it.

What if I fail the vision test?

If you do not pass the vision test, you can retake it after getting glasses or contacts if you need them. Bring your new glasses or contacts to the office and ask to retake the test. If you still do not pass, the staff member will explain what restrictions may explore to your license.