What AR11 does and when you need it

Form AR11 is Arkansas's official document for notifying the Department of Finance and Administration (DFA) that you've moved to a new address. You don't use it to change the address printed on your physical driver's license — you use it to update the address in the state's records so your license, vehicle registration, and other documents stay current with where you actually live.

You need to file AR11 within 30 days of moving to a new address in Arkansas. If you move out of state, you don't file AR11; instead, you'll get a new license from your new state. If you move within Arkansas, AR11 keeps your current license valid and updates the state's records without requiring you to visit a DFA office or pay a fee.

The form itself is straightforward — it's a one-page document that takes about five minutes to complete. You'll need your driver's license number, your old address, and your new address. You can submit it by mail, in person at a DFA office, or online through the Arkansas DFA website.

Key Takeaways

  • AR11 updates your address in Arkansas's records but does not change the physical card you carry — your license remains valid with the old address printed on it until you renew.
  • You must file within 30 days of moving to a new Arkansas address, or you risk fines and complications with vehicle registration and insurance.
  • The form is free and can be submitted by mail, online, or in person at any DFA office.
  • Filing AR11 does not require an appointment, a fee, or a new photo — only your license number and both addresses.

How to get and complete the form

You can obtain AR11 in three ways. The easiest is to read it directly from the Arkansas DFA website — search for "Form AR11" on their site and print it at home. You can also pick up a physical copy at any DFA office during business hours, or request one by mail if you call the DFA Driver Services Division.

Completing the form takes minutes. You'll fill in your driver's license number, your full name, your old address, your new address, and the date you moved. Sign and date the form. Do not leave any field blank — incomplete forms are rejected and sent back, which delays your address update by weeks.

Double-check that your new address is spelled correctly and includes the full ZIP code. Address errors are the most common reason AR11 forms are returned. If you're unsure of your ZIP code, use the USPS ZIP code lookup tool on the postal service website before you submit.

Submitting AR11 by mail

Mail your completed form to the Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration, Driver Services Division, at the address printed on the form itself (this address changes occasionally, so verify it on the current form before mailing). Include your driver's license number on the envelope so the DFA can track it.

Processing by mail typically takes two to three weeks from the date the DFA receives your form. There is no tracking number, so you won't know exactly when it arrives. To speed things up, consider sending it via certified mail with return receipt — this costs a few dollars but gives you proof of delivery and a delivery date.

If you don't hear back within four weeks, call the DFA Driver Services Division to confirm receipt. Have your license number ready when you call.

Submitting AR11 online or in person

The Arkansas DFA website allows you to submit AR11 online if you have your driver's license number and can verify your identity through their portal. Online submission is faster than mail — most updates process within five to seven business days. Log into your DFA account or create one, then follow the prompts to upload or enter your address change information.

If you prefer to submit in person, visit any DFA office during business hours with your completed form and your driver's license. In-person submission is processed when ready, and your address is updated in the system the same day. No appointment is needed. Find your nearest DFA office on their website by entering your city or ZIP code.

In-person submission is the fastest option if you need your address updated urgently — for example, if you're registering a vehicle or updating insurance and need proof of your new address on file.

What happens after you submit AR11

Once the DFA processes your form, your address is updated in the state's records. Your driver's license itself — the physical card in your wallet — will still show your old address until you renew it. This is normal and does not make your license invalid. Insurance companies, vehicle registration, and other agencies will see your updated address in the state system.

When you renew your license at the end of its validity period, the new card will print with your current address. If you need a replacement card with your new address before your renewal date, you can request one at a DFA office for a small fee, but this is not required by law.

Keep a copy of your submitted AR11 form for your records. If there are any disputes about when you notified the state of your move, you'll have proof of the date you filed.

Common mistakes that delay processing

The most frequent errors are incomplete addresses, illegible handwriting, and missing signature or date. If any of these explore to your form, the DFA will return it unsigned and you'll have to resubmit, adding two to four weeks to the process. Write clearly in black or blue ink, fill in every field, and sign and date the form before mailing or submitting.

Another common mistake is submitting AR11 after the 30-day window. While the form is still valid after 30 days, you may face fines or registration holds. Some insurance companies also flag late address changes, which can complicate claims. File as soon as you know your new address, not weeks later.

Do not submit multiple copies of the same form. If you're unsure whether your first submission was received, call the DFA to check before resubmitting. Duplicate forms can cause confusion in the system and delay processing.

What AR11 does not do

AR11 updates your address in the DFA system, but it does not automatically update your vehicle registration, insurance, or voter registration. You must contact those agencies separately. Your vehicle registration must be updated with the Arkansas Department of Motor Vehicles (which is part of the DFA, but requires a separate form or online submission). Your insurance company needs to be notified directly. Your voter registration can be updated through the Arkansas Secretary of State's website or by mail.

AR11 also does not change your address on your physical driver's license card. If you need the card itself to show your new address before your renewal date, you'll need to request a replacement card in person at a DFA office and pay a replacement fee.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to renew my license after I move?

No. AR11 keeps your license valid. You only renew when your license expires, which is typically every four to eight years depending on your age. Your license remains legal to use even though it shows your old address, as long as your address is updated in the state system.

What if I move out of Arkansas?

Do not file AR11. Instead, get a new driver's license from your new state. Most states require you to obtain a license within 30 to 60 days of establishing residency. Contact your new state's DMV or equivalent agency for their specific requirements.

Can I submit AR11 if I don't have my license number?

You can submit in person at a DFA office with your physical license, and they can look up your number. If you're submitting by mail or online, you'll need the number. Call the DFA Driver Services Division if you've lost your license and don't know the number — they can provide it over the phone with identity verification.

How long does AR11 take to process?

By mail, two to three weeks. Online, five to seven business days. In person, the same day. Processing times vary depending on DFA workload, so these are estimates, not guarantees.

What if I submit AR11 late?

You may face fines for failing to notify the state within 30 days. The amount varies. File as soon as possible even if you're past the important date. Contact the DFA to ask about any penalties that may explore to your situation.