The Arkansas driver's license test has two parts: a written knowledge test and a driving skills test

Arkansas requires anyone explore for a driver's license to pass both a written exam and a behind-the-wheel driving test. The written test covers road signs, traffic laws, and safe driving practices from the Arkansas Driver License Study Guide. The driving test evaluates whether you can control the vehicle safely and follow traffic laws in real conditions.

You cannot take the driving test until you pass the written test on the same day. Both tests happen at your local Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration (DFA) driver license office. The entire process—written test, waiting, and driving test—typically takes two to three hours.

Key Takeaways

  • The written test covers 50 questions about Arkansas traffic laws and road signs, and you must answer at least 40 correctly to pass.
  • You can study using the free Arkansas Driver License Study Guide, available on the DFA website or in print at any license office.
  • The driving test lasts about 15 to 20 minutes and includes basic maneuvers like parking, turning, and stopping at traffic signals.
  • You must bring your learner's permit, proof of identity, proof of residency, and a vehicle that is registered and insured to take the driving test.
  • If you fail either test, you can retake it, but you may have to wait and pay the test fee again depending on which test you failed.

What the written knowledge test covers

The written test has 50 multiple-choice questions drawn from the Arkansas Driver License Study Guide. Questions cover traffic signs and their meanings, right-of-way rules, speed limits, parking laws, what to do at traffic lights and stop signs, and safe driving practices like following distance and turning. You have 30 minutes to complete the test.

You need to answer at least 40 of the 50 questions correctly—an 80 percent score—to pass. The test is offered in English and several other languages. If you fail, you can retake it the same day or come back another day; the DFA charges a fee each time you take the test.

The study guide is free and covers everything on the test. You can read it from the Arkansas DFA website or pick up a printed copy at any driver license office. Most people study the guide for a few days before taking the test.

How the driving skills test works

The driving test lasts about 15 to 20 minutes. An examiner sits in the passenger seat while you drive a predetermined route in your own vehicle. The examiner watches how you handle the car, obey traffic laws, and respond to road conditions.

The test includes basic maneuvers: starting the engine, pulling into traffic, turning left and right, stopping at traffic signals and stop signs, parking (usually parallel parking), and backing up. The examiner will also ask you to demonstrate that you understand your vehicle's controls—where the windshield wipers are, how to turn on the headlights, and how to use the turn signals.

Common reasons people fail the driving test are running a stop sign or red light, improper lane changes, hitting the curb while parking, speeding, and not using turn signals. If you fail, you can retake the driving test, but you must pass the written test first if you have not already.

Documents and vehicle requirements

You must bring your learner's permit to the test. You also need proof of identity (a birth certificate, passport, or state ID), proof of Arkansas residency (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement with your current address), and your Social Security number or an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number.

The vehicle you use for the driving test must be registered in Arkansas, have current insurance, and be in safe working condition. The examiner will check that the brakes, steering, lights, windshield wipers, and mirrors all work. The vehicle must have seat belts for both the driver and examiner.

You must have a licensed adult (at least 21 years old) in the vehicle with you during the driving test if you are under 18. If you are 18 or older, you can take the test alone.

How to register for the test

You do not need to schedule an appointment in advance at most Arkansas DFA driver license offices. You can walk in during business hours, pay the test fee, and take the written test the same day. However, some offices in larger cities may have online scheduling; check your local office's website to see if appointments are available.

The test fee varies by office but is typically around $20 to $25 for the written test and $25 to $30 for the driving test. Fees change periodically, so confirm the current amount when you arrive or call ahead.

Bring all required documents with you. If you are missing any document, the office will not let you take the test. Arrive early, especially on weekdays, because offices can have long waits during busy times.

What happens if you fail

If you fail the written test, you can retake it the same day or return another day. You pay the test fee each time you take it. Most people pass on the second or third attempt after studying the guide more thoroughly.

If you fail the driving test, you must pass the written test before you can take the driving test again. You can retake the driving test after a waiting period; the length of the waiting period depends on your age and how many times you have failed. Call your local DFA office to find out the specific waiting period and fee for a retest.

If you fail the driving test multiple times, consider taking a defensive driving course or getting extra practice with an experienced driver. Some driving schools in Arkansas offer test preparation courses that can help you understand what the examiner is looking for.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use someone else's car for the driving test?

Yes, as long as the car is registered in Arkansas, has current insurance, and is in safe working condition. The car does not have to be registered in your name. Make sure the owner gives you permission and that you have proof of insurance in the vehicle.

What if I fail the written test—can I take the driving test anyway?

No. You must pass the written test before you can take the driving test. If you fail the written test, you can retake it the same day or come back another day, but you cannot proceed to the driving test until you pass the written portion.

Do I need a learner's permit before I take the license test?

Yes. Arkansas requires you to hold a learner's permit for at least 30 days before you can take the driving test. The permit shows you have passed the written knowledge test and are ready to practice driving with a licensed adult.

How many times can I retake the driving test?

There is no limit on the number of times you can retake the driving test, but you must wait a certain period between attempts and pay the test fee each time. The waiting period and fee structure depend on your age; call your local DFA office for details.

What should I do the day before the test?

Get a good night's sleep and review the study guide one more time. The morning of the test, eat breakfast, arrive early, and bring all required documents. Practice deep breathing if you are nervous—the examiner expects some nervousness and will not penalize you for it.