The basic path to getting your license back
To reinstate a suspended Arkansas driver's license, you must first contact the Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration, Driver Services Division, to find out why your license was suspended and what specific steps you need to take. The reason for suspension determines what you must do — whether that's paying a fine, completing a defensive driving course, or resolving a child support or insurance issue. Once you have completed all requirements, you submit proof to the Driver Services Division, pay a reinstatement fee, and your license becomes valid again.
The process typically takes one to three weeks from the time you submit all required documents, though it can be faster if you handle everything in person at a Driver Services office. You cannot drive legally until your license is officially reinstated, even if you have started the process.
Key Takeaways
- Contact the Arkansas Driver Services Division first to learn the exact reason for your suspension and what you must complete before reinstatement.
- Different suspension reasons require different actions — unpaid traffic fines, insurance lapses, child support arrears, and DWI convictions each have their own requirements.
- You must pay a reinstatement fee (the amount varies by suspension type) along with proof that you have met all other requirements.
- You can reinstate in person at any Driver Services office or by mail, though in-person processing is usually faster.
Finding out why your license was suspended
The Arkansas Driver Services Division will not reinstate your license until you know the reason for suspension. Call the Driver Services Division at 501-682-7060 or visit their website to check your driving record. You will need your driver's license number or Social Security number to look up your record online. The record will show the suspension reason and the date it took effect.
Common suspension reasons in Arkansas include unpaid traffic fines or court costs, failure to maintain auto insurance, child support arrears reported by the Department of Human Services, a DWI or DUI conviction, failure to appear in court, or accumulation of too many points on your driving record. Each reason has a different path to reinstatement, so confirming the exact reason before you take any action saves time.
What you must complete before reinstatement
If your suspension is due to unpaid fines or court costs, you must pay the full amount owed to the court that issued the citation. Contact the court directly to confirm the exact amount and whether you can pay by phone, online, or in person. Once paid, ask the court to send proof of payment to the Driver Services Division, or bring the receipt to a Driver Services office yourself.
If your suspension is due to a lapsed insurance policy, you must obtain a new insurance policy and provide proof of current coverage. Your insurance company can send an SR-22 form (proof of financial responsibility) directly to the Driver Services Division, or you can submit it yourself. The policy must be active on the date you submit it.
If your suspension is tied to child support arrears, contact the Arkansas Department of Human Services, Division of Child Support Enforcement, to arrange a payment plan or bring your account current. Once the arrears are resolved or a payment plan is in place, DHS will notify the Driver Services Division. This process can take several weeks.
If your suspension follows a DWI or DUI conviction, you may be required to complete a substance abuse treatment program or a DWI education course, depending on the conviction and whether it was your first offense. The court handling your case will specify which program you must complete. You must provide a certificate of completion to the Driver Services Division.
Submitting your reinstatement request and paying the fee
Once you have completed all requirements for your suspension reason, gather proof of completion — a court receipt, insurance documentation, DHS letter, or course certificate — and submit it to the Driver Services Division. You can do this in person at any Driver Services office, by mail to the address on the Driver Services website, or by submitting documents through their online portal if available for your suspension type.
You must also pay a reinstatement fee. The fee varies depending on the reason for suspension and ranges from $50 to $150 in most cases. Payment can be made by check, money order, or credit card at a Driver Services office, or by check or money order if submitting by mail. Do not send cash through the mail.
Include a completed process for Reinstatement of Driver's License (form DL-43), which is available on the Driver Services website or at any Driver Services office. Write your driver's license number clearly on all documents you submit.
Processing time and what happens next
After the Driver Services Division receives your completed reinstatement request and fee, processing typically takes one to three weeks. If you submitted documents by mail, add time for postal delivery. You can check the status of your reinstatement by calling Driver Services or checking your driving record online.
Once your license is reinstated, you will receive written confirmation by mail. Your license itself does not change — the suspension is straightforward removed from your record. You can then drive legally again. If you do not receive confirmation within three weeks, contact Driver Services to confirm receipt of your documents.
Reinstatement in person versus by mail
Visiting a Driver Services office in person is usually the fastest option. You can submit all documents, pay the fee, and have your reinstatement processed the same day or within a few business days. Bring your driver's license, proof of completing all requirements, the reinstatement fee, and a completed form DL-43. The office staff can review your documents on the spot and tell you if anything is missing.
Submitting by mail takes longer because of postal delays and because Driver Services processes mail in batches. Mail your documents to the address listed on the Driver Services website, include a copy of your driver's license for identification, and keep a copy of everything you send. Use certified mail with return receipt if you want proof of delivery.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drive while my reinstatement is being processed?
No. Your license remains suspended until the Driver Services Division officially reinstates it. Driving with a suspended license is illegal and can result in additional fines, criminal charges, and a longer suspension. Wait for written confirmation of reinstatement before driving.
What if I cannot pay the full amount owed for fines or child support right away?
Contact the court or the Department of Human Services to ask about a payment plan. Many courts and child support offices will work with you to set up installments. Once a plan is approved and you make the first payment, you can often request a temporary driving permit while you complete the plan, though this varies by situation.
Do I need a new driver's license photo or test after reinstatement?
No. Reinstatement straightforward removes the suspension from your record. Your existing license remains valid. You do not need to retake the written or driving test unless your license has expired for other reasons.
What if I was suspended for points on my driving record?
Points suspensions in Arkansas are typically lifted automatically after a waiting period (usually 6 to 12 months depending on how many points you accumulated). You do not need to complete additional requirements, but you still must pay the reinstatement fee. Contact Driver Services to confirm when you become may be able to access and submit your fee.
Can I get a hardship or work permit while my license is suspended?
Arkansas does not issue hardship permits for most suspension reasons. However, if your suspension is for unpaid fines or child support, you may be able to request a restricted license for work purposes if you can show financial hardship. Contact the Driver Services Division or the court handling your case to ask about this option.