How to Renew Your Arkansas Driver's License

Arkansas driver's license renewal basics

You can renew your Arkansas driver's license online, by mail, or in person at a driver services office. Online renewal is the fastest option if you're may be able to access — it takes about 10 minutes and costs $24.50. Mail renewal takes two to three weeks. In-person renewal is when ready but requires a trip to an office during business hours.

may be able to access for online or mail renewal depends on your current license status and how long it's been expired. If your license expired more than five years ago, you must renew in person. If it expired within the last five years, you can use mail or online. Online renewal requires that your address on file matches your current address and that you have a valid Social Security number on record with the state.

Key Takeaways

Online renewal through the Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration website takes 10 minutes and costs $24.50 if your license expired within five years.
Mail renewal takes two to three weeks and requires you to submit your current license, a completed form, and payment by check or money order.
In-person renewal at a driver services office is when ready but requires proof of residency, your Social Security number, and a valid photo ID.
If your license expired more than five years ago, you must renew in person and may need to retake the written and vision tests.

Online renewal through the state website

The Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration operates the online renewal system. You'll need your current driver's license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your date of birth. The system will verify your information against state records and confirm your address.

After you complete the online form and pay the $24.50 fee with a debit or credit card, the state mails your new license to the address on file. Delivery typically takes seven to ten business days. You can continue driving on your current license until the new one arrives. Online renewal is not available if you need to change your address, update your name, or add restrictions or endorsements to your license.

Mail renewal with a paper form

To renew by mail, read form DL-43 from the Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration website or request it by phone at 501-682-7060. Fill out the form completely, sign it, and mail it along with your current driver's license and a check or money order for $24.50 to the address listed on the form.

The state processes mail renewals in the order they arrive. You should expect your new license in two to three weeks from the date the office receives your envelope. Mail your renewal at least four weeks before your license expires if you need it by a specific date. Keep a copy of the form and your payment receipt until you receive the new license.

In-person renewal at a driver services office

Visit any Arkansas driver services office with your current driver's license, proof of residency (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within 90 days), and your Social Security card or a document showing your Social Security number. Bring a second form of photo ID if your driver's license is expired. The office will take a new photo, verify your information, and issue your new license on the spot.

Driver services offices are located in most counties. You can find the office nearest you and check its hours on the Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration website. Offices are typically open Monday through Friday during standard business hours, though some locations have extended hours on certain days. Arrive early or during off-peak times to avoid long waits, especially near the end of the month.

What happens if your license is expired more than five years

If your Arkansas driver's license has been expired for more than five years, you cannot renew it — you must reapply as a new driver. This means you'll need to pass the written test, vision test, and road test. You'll also need to provide proof of residency, your Social Security number, and proof of identity.

Schedule your road test appointment through the Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration website or by calling 501-682-7060. Written and vision tests are administered at driver services offices on a walk-in basis during regular hours. Plan to spend two to three hours at the office for the written and vision tests, then schedule your road test for a separate appointment.

Address changes and other updates during renewal

If you need to change your address, you cannot use online renewal. Instead, visit a driver services office in person or mail form DL-43 with your new address clearly marked. The office will update your address when ready if you renew in person. If you mail the form, include a proof of residency document dated within 90 days showing your new address.

Name changes, adding endorsements (such as a motorcycle endorsement), or removing restrictions also require in-person renewal. Bring a certified copy of your marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order showing your legal name change. If you're adding an endorsement, you may need to pass an additional written test depending on the endorsement type.

Fees and payment methods

Arkansas driver's license renewal costs $24.50 for a four-year license. This fee is the same whether you renew online, by mail, or in person. Online and in-person renewals accept debit cards, credit cards, and cash. Mail renewals require a check or money order made payable to the Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration.

Some driver services offices may charge an additional fee if you need a duplicate license the same day or if you're adding an endorsement. Ask about these fees when you visit or call ahead. Replacement licenses for lost or stolen licenses cost the same as renewal and follow the same process.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my Arkansas driver's license if I live out of state?

Yes. You can renew online if you meet the may be able to access requirements, or by mail using form DL-43. If you need to renew in person, you'll need to visit an Arkansas driver services office during a trip home or arrange for someone to handle it on your behalf, though the state does not allow proxy renewals for most situations.

What if my name has changed since my last license?

You must renew in person and bring a certified copy of your marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. The office will update your name and issue a new license with the correct name. This cannot be done online or by mail.

How long is an Arkansas driver's license valid after renewal?

A renewed driver's license is valid for four years from the date of issue. The expiration date will be printed on your new license. You can renew it anytime during the four-year period, though most people wait until closer to the expiration date.

What if I don't receive my renewed license in the mail?

Contact the Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration at 501-682-7060 with your license number and the date you submitted your renewal. They can track your license and reissue it if it was lost in the mail. You may be charged a replacement fee.

Can I drive while waiting for my renewed license to arrive?

Yes. Your current license remains valid until it expires. If you renewed online or by mail, you can continue driving on your current license until your new one arrives in the mail.

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.