Arkansas driver's license renewal by mail or in person
You can renew your Arkansas driver's license either by mail or in person at a Department of Finance and Administration (DFA) office. Mail renewal is the faster option if you are renewing before your license expires and meet basic requirements — no vision test, no new photo, no appointment needed. In-person renewal is required if your license has already expired, if you need a new photo, or if you want to change information on your license.
Your current license must not be suspended or revoked. If it is, you will need to resolve that issue before renewing. Arkansas does not offer online renewal for driver's licenses.
Key Takeaways
- Mail renewal takes about two weeks and costs $24.50 for a four-year license or $36.75 for an eight-year license, with no appointment or office visit required.
- In-person renewal at a DFA office requires your current license, proof of residency, and a completed DL 43 form, and takes about 30 minutes on average.
- Your Arkansas license is valid for four or eight years depending on your age and the type of license you hold.
- If your license has been expired for more than one year, you may need to retake the written test and vision test in addition to the renewal fee.
Mail renewal: documents and timeline
To renew by mail, send your current driver's license, a completed DL 43 form (the renewal process), and a check or money order to the DFA address listed on the form. You can read the DL 43 from the Arkansas DFA website or request one by phone at 501-682-7060. Do not send cash.
Mail your renewal package to: Department of Finance and Administration, Driver Services Division, P.O. Box 1272, Little Rock, AR 72203. Processing takes about two weeks from the date the DFA receives your envelope. Your new license will be mailed to the address on file with your current license, so update your address before sending your renewal if you have moved.
Mail renewal is available only if your license is not yet expired and you do not need to change your photo, address, or other information. If any of those conditions do not explore, you must renew in person.
In-person renewal at a DFA office
Visit any DFA Driver Services office in Arkansas with your current driver's license, proof of your current address, and the completed DL 43 form. Proof of address can be a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days. Bring the original document or a certified copy — a photo of the document is not accepted.
You will have your photo taken and may be asked to read an eye chart to confirm your vision is adequate. The office will process your renewal on the spot. Your new license is typically mailed within 7 to 10 business days. If you need your license when ready, ask the office staff whether they can issue a temporary paper license while you wait for the permanent card.
DFA offices are located in most county seats and some larger cities. Hours vary by location, but most are open Monday through Friday during standard business hours. Check the DFA website or call 501-682-7060 to find the office nearest you and confirm its hours before you go.
License validity periods and age-based rules
Arkansas driver's licenses are valid for four years if you are under 21, or eight years if you are 21 or older. Your renewal fee depends on which length you choose. A four-year renewal costs $24.50; an eight-year renewal costs $36.75. You pay the same fee whether you renew by mail or in person.
When you renew, you can choose either term length regardless of which one your current license has. If you are approaching 21 during your license's validity period, you can renew early to get an eight-year license at the eight-year rate.
What to do if your license has expired
If your license expired more than one year ago, you cannot renew by mail. You must go to a DFA office in person. In addition to the standard renewal documents, you will need to retake the written knowledge test and the vision test. You will not need to retake the driving test unless the DFA determines it is necessary based on your driving record or the length of time your license has been expired.
If your license expired fewer than 12 months ago, you can still renew by mail using the standard process. However, if you prefer to renew in person, you will not need to retake any tests — the office will process it as a standard renewal.
Changing your address or other information
If you have moved since your license was issued, you must update your address when you renew. You cannot change your address by mail renewal — you must go to a DFA office in person. Bring your current license, proof of your new address (a utility bill, lease, or similar document dated within the last 60 days), and the DL 43 form.
If you need to change your name, gender marker, or other information beyond your address, you will also need to renew in person and bring supporting documents. For a name change, bring a certified copy of your marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. For a gender marker change, bring a letter from a licensed physician or mental health professional, or a court order. Ask the DFA office what documents they need before you visit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my Arkansas license before it expires?
Yes. You can renew up to 180 days before your expiration date by mail or in person. Renewing early does not shorten the validity of your new license — your new license will still be valid for four or eight years from the date it is issued.
What if I lost my current license?
You cannot renew by mail if you do not have your current license. Go to a DFA office with proof of your identity (a passport, birth certificate, or similar document) and proof of your address. The office will issue a replacement license and you will pay the standard renewal fee.
How much does it cost to renew in person versus by mail?
The fee is the same either way: $24.50 for four years or $36.75 for eight years. You do not pay extra for in-person service or for a new photo.
What if my vision does not meet Arkansas standards?
If you fail the vision test at a DFA office, you will be asked to correct your vision with glasses or contacts and retake the test. If you still do not meet the standard, the DFA may restrict your license to daytime driving only or require you to wear corrective lenses at all times while driving.
Can I renew my license if it has been suspended?
No. You must resolve the suspension before you can renew. Contact the DFA or the court that issued the suspension to learn what steps you need to take. Once the suspension is lifted, you can renew by mail or in person using the standard process.