What you need to get an Arkansas driver's license
Arkansas issues driver's licenses through the Department of Finance and Administration, Office of Driver Services. You'll need to visit a driver services office in person — you cannot complete this entirely by mail or online. Bring proof of identity (a passport, birth certificate, or consulate ID card), proof of Social Security number (a Social Security card or tax return), and proof of Arkansas residency (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days). If your name has changed, bring the document that shows the change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order.
You must pass a vision screening and a written knowledge test covering traffic laws and road signs. Arkansas also requires a driving skills test unless you're renewing a license you already hold. The written test is offered in English and Spanish. If you need the test in another language, contact your local driver services office ahead of time to arrange it.
Arkansas driver's licenses are valid for four years if you're under 21, and five years if you're 21 or older. Commercial driver's licenses (CDLs) are valid for five years. The renewal date is printed on your license.
Key Takeaways
- You must visit a driver services office in person with proof of identity, Social Security number, and Arkansas residency to get a new license.
- Arkansas requires a vision screening, written knowledge test, and driving skills test for a new license, but not for renewals.
- Standard driver's licenses expire in four or five years depending on your age; commercial licenses expire in five years.
- You can renew your license up to 90 days before it expires, either in person or by mail if you meet certain conditions.
- A Real ID-compliant license costs more and requires additional documents, but is required for federal building access and domestic air travel starting May 2025.
Where to find an Arkansas driver services office
The Office of Driver Services operates multiple locations across the state. You can find the office nearest you on the Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration website by entering your county or city. Most offices are open Monday through Friday during standard business hours, though some have extended evening or Saturday hours. Call ahead to confirm hours, as they vary by location.
Wait times vary significantly by location and time of day. Offices in larger cities tend to be busier during lunch hours and late afternoon. If you're renewing by mail, you don't need to visit an office at all, provided your license is not suspended or revoked and you meet the other renewal conditions.
Renewing your Arkansas driver's license by mail or in person
You can renew your license by mail if you are renewing a valid, non-commercial license and you have not had any suspensions or revocations in the past five years. You must also be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident. Mail renewal is available up to 90 days before your license expires. Send your current license, a completed renewal form (DFA Form 259), and the renewal fee to the address listed on the form. Processing typically takes two to three weeks.
If you don't meet the mail renewal conditions, or if you prefer to renew in person, visit a driver services office. In-person renewal is faster — you can usually walk out with a temporary license the same day and receive your permanent license by mail within one to two weeks. Bring your current license, proof of residency, and the renewal fee.
If your license has expired, you may still renew by mail within one year of expiration. After one year, you must explore for a new license and take the written and driving skills tests again.
Real ID versus standard Arkansas driver's licenses
Arkansas offers two types of driver's licenses: standard and Real ID-compliant. A Real ID license meets federal security standards and is required for boarding domestic flights and entering federal buildings (including military bases and federal courthouses) starting May 7, 2025. A standard license does not meet these requirements.
A Real ID license costs more than a standard license — the difference varies but is typically $10 to $15 extra. To get a Real ID license, you must provide additional documents beyond the standard requirements: an original or certified copy of your birth certificate, proof of Social Security number, and two forms of proof of Arkansas residency. If you've changed your name, bring the document showing the change.
If you already have a standard license and want to upgrade to Real ID, you can do so at any driver services office. You do not have to wait for your current license to expire. If you're renewing and want Real ID, request it when you renew — you cannot get Real ID by mail renewal.
Fees and what to bring to the office
Driver's license fees in Arkansas depend on the type and length of validity. A standard four-year license for drivers under 21 costs less than a five-year license for drivers 21 and older. Real ID licenses cost more. Commercial driver's licenses have a separate, higher fee. The exact amounts change periodically, so check the Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration website or call your local office before you go.
Bring the documents listed below in the order that applies to you:
- For a new license: Proof of identity (passport, birth certificate, or consulate ID), proof of Social Security number (Social Security card or tax return), proof of Arkansas residency (utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within 60 days), and payment.
- For a standard renewal in person: Current license, proof of residency, and payment.
- For a Real ID license (new or renewal): Original or certified birth certificate, proof of Social Security number, two forms of proof of Arkansas residency, and payment. If your name has changed, bring the document showing the change.
Bring originals or certified copies — photocopies are not accepted. If a document is in a language other than English, bring a certified English translation as well.
What happens if your license is suspended or revoked
An Arkansas driver's license can be suspended or revoked for reasons including unpaid traffic tickets, DUI convictions, accumulating too many points from traffic violations, or failure to pay child support. You cannot renew your license while it is suspended or revoked. You must resolve the underlying issue first — pay outstanding fines, complete a DUI program, or satisfy the other requirement — and then contact the Office of Driver Services to confirm the suspension or revocation has been lifted.
If you're unsure whether your license is suspended or revoked, call your local driver services office or check the Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration website. Some suspensions are temporary and lift automatically after a set period; others require you to take action. The office can tell you which applies to you and what steps to take next.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my Arkansas license before it expires?
Yes. You can renew up to 90 days before your license expires. This extends your expiration date by the full validity period (four or five years, depending on your age). Renewing early does not shorten the life of your new license.
What if I lost my license or it was stolen?
Visit a driver services office and request a replacement. Bring proof of identity and residency, just as you would for a renewal. You'll pay a replacement fee, which is typically lower than the cost of a new license. You should receive your replacement license by mail within one to two weeks.
Do I need a Real ID license if I only drive within Arkansas?
Not for driving. Real ID is required only if you plan to board a domestic flight or enter a federal building. If you never do either, a standard license is sufficient. However, Real ID will become the only option for federal access starting May 2025, so upgrading now may save you a trip later.
What if my address changed but my license hasn't expired?
You can update your address at any driver services office without renewing your license. Bring your current license and proof of your new Arkansas address. There is no fee for an address change. You can also update your address by mail by sending a completed form and proof of residency to the Office of Driver Services.
How long does it take to get a new license after I pass the test?
You receive a temporary license valid for 30 days when you pass the test and pay the fee. Your permanent license is mailed to you within one to two weeks. Do not drive without the temporary license during this period.