How to Get a Replacement Driver's License in Arkansas

Where to get a replacement license and what it costs

The Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration, Revenue Division handles replacement driver's licenses. You can get one at any of the 42 driver license offices across the state, or you can order one by mail if you meet certain conditions. The fee is $24.50 for a standard replacement license, or $34.50 if you want a REAL ID-compliant license (which works for federal purposes like flying domestically or entering federal buildings).

If your license was lost, stolen, or damaged, you'll need to decide whether to replace it in person or by mail. In-person replacement takes about 30 minutes at a driver license office and you'll get a temporary paper license on the spot. Mail replacement takes longer but works if you can't visit an office.

Key Takeaways

Visit any Arkansas driver license office with your Social Security number, proof of residency, and payment to get a replacement the same day.
Mail-in replacement is available only if your license was lost or stolen (not damaged) and you haven't had a replacement by mail in the past five years.
A standard replacement costs $24.50; a REAL ID replacement costs $34.50 and requires additional documents but works for federal identification purposes.
Bring an original or certified copy of your birth certificate, passport, or other identity document — a photocopy alone will not work.

What documents you need to bring in person

For an in-person replacement at any driver license office, bring three things: proof of identity, proof of Social Security number, and proof of residency. Proof of identity means an original or certified copy of your birth certificate, U.S. passport, passport card, or military ID. A photocopy does not count, even if it's notarized.

For Social Security number, bring your Social Security card, a W-2 form, a 1099 form, or a tax return. For residency, bring a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days with your name and Arkansas address on it. If you're getting a REAL ID license, you'll also need to bring proof of your current address — the same documents work for both residency and REAL ID address proof.

Getting a replacement by mail

Mail-in replacement is only available if your license was lost or stolen, not if it was damaged. You also cannot use mail replacement if you've had a mail replacement in the past five years. To explore by mail, read the DL 43 form from the Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration website, fill it out completely, and mail it with a check or money order for $24.50 to the address listed on the form.

Include a copy (not original) of your identity document with your process. The Revenue Division will mail your new license to the address on file, which typically takes two to three weeks after they receive your process. You won't get a temporary license this way, so if you need to drive before the new one arrives, you'll need to visit an office in person instead.

Replacing a license that was damaged or defaced

If your license is damaged, torn, faded, or unreadable, you must replace it in person — mail replacement is not an option for damage. Bring the damaged license itself along with your identity and residency documents. The office will keep the damaged license and issue you a new one on the spot.

If your license is so damaged that you can't carry it safely, you can request a temporary paper license at any driver license office even before you formally explore for a replacement. This temporary license is valid for 30 days and lets you drive while you arrange the full replacement.

REAL ID versus standard replacement

A standard Arkansas driver's license costs $24.50 and works for driving and state identification. A REAL ID license costs $34.50 and meets federal requirements for boarding domestic flights, entering federal buildings, and accessing military bases. If you already have a REAL ID license and just need a replacement, you can get another REAL ID license for the same $34.50 fee.

The main difference at the office is that REAL ID requires you to prove your current address with a recent utility bill, lease, or bank statement. Standard replacement only requires proof of residency, which can be older documents. If you're not sure whether your current license is REAL ID compliant, check the upper right corner of your license — REAL ID licenses have a small star or marking there.

Finding a driver license office near you

Arkansas has 42 driver license offices spread across the state. The Revenue Division website has a searchable office locator with addresses, phone numbers, and hours. Most offices are open Monday through Friday during standard business hours, though some have limited Saturday hours. Call ahead or check online before you go, because some smaller offices have reduced hours or may close for lunch.

Wait times vary by location and time of day. Offices in larger cities like Little Rock, Fayetteville, and Hot Springs tend to be busier in the morning and on Fridays. If you're in a rural area, your nearest office might be 30 minutes away, so plan accordingly.

What happens if your license expires while you're waiting for a replacement

If you get a temporary paper license at an office, it's valid for 30 days and covers you while your permanent replacement is being processed. If you ordered by mail and your old license expires before the new one arrives, you can still drive legally with the paper receipt or confirmation from your mail process — keep that documentation with you.

If your license has already expired and you're replacing it, you don't need to renew it separately. The replacement license will be issued with a new expiration date, typically eight years from the date of replacement for drivers under 65, and four years for drivers 65 and older.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I replace my license online?

No. Arkansas does not offer online replacement for lost, stolen, or damaged licenses. You must either visit a driver license office in person or mail in your process using the DL 43 form. You cannot start the process on the Revenue Division website.

What if I don't have my Social Security card?

You don't need your actual Social Security card. Bring a W-2, 1099, tax return, or other document showing your Social Security number instead. The office will verify your number with the Social Security Administration.

Do I need an appointment to get a replacement license?

Most Arkansas driver license offices do not require appointments and operate on a first-come, first-served basis. A few larger offices may offer appointment scheduling — check the office locator on the Revenue Division website to see if your local office takes appointments.

How long does a replacement license take if I go in person?

You'll receive a temporary paper license when ready, usually within 30 minutes of explore. Your permanent replacement license will arrive by mail within two to three weeks. The temporary license is valid for 30 days and works for all driving purposes.

What if my name has changed since my last license?

Bring documentation of your name change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. The office will update your name in the system and issue a replacement license with your current legal name at no extra charge.

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.