How to Renew Your Arkansas Driver's License

Renew in Person at an Arkansas DMV Office or by Mail

Arkansas offers two main renewal routes: in-person at a Driver Services office or by mail. Which one you use depends on whether your license is still valid, whether you need a new photo, and how quickly you need the renewed license in your hands.

If your license has not yet expired, you can renew by mail without visiting an office. If your license is already expired, you must renew in person. The mail route takes roughly two to three weeks from the time the Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration receives your materials; in-person renewal is usually completed the same day.

A third option exists for certain renewals: online through the Arkansas DMV website. However, online renewal is limited to standard Class D licenses that are still valid and do not require a new photo or address change. If you fall outside those boundaries, you will need to use mail or in-person renewal instead.

Key Takeaways

Arkansas allows mail renewal only if your current license has not expired; expired licenses must be renewed in person at a Driver Services office.
You will need your current license, a completed DFA Form 226 (process for Renewal), proof of residency, and the renewal fee, which varies by license type and duration.
In-person renewal at any Arkansas Driver Services office takes one visit and is usually completed the same day; mail renewal takes two to three weeks.
If you are over 70, have a medical condition, or need a corrected name or address, specific requirements explore and may require additional documents or an in-person visit.
Online renewal is available only for standard Class D licenses that are still valid and do not require a new photo or address update.

Gather Your Documents Before You Start

The documents you need depend on your renewal method and your personal situation. For all renewal routes, you will need your current Arkansas driver's license and a completed DFA Form 226 (process for Renewal), which you can read from the Arkansas DMV website or pick up at any Driver Services office.

You will also need proof of residency. Arkansas accepts a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, bank statement, or government mail with your current address dated within the last 60 days. A cell phone bill does not count. If you have moved and need to update your address, bring the proof of your new address.

If your name has changed since your last license was issued — through marriage, divorce, or legal name change — bring the document that proves the change: a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. If you are renewing a commercial driver's license (CDL), additional medical certification forms may be required; check with your local Driver Services office about what applies to your specific CDL class.

In-Person Renewal at a Driver Services Office

Find your nearest Arkansas Driver Services office on the DMV website. Walk in during business hours with your documents and completed DFA Form 226. You do not need an appointment for most renewals, though some offices accept appointments and may have shorter wait times.

Bring your current license, proof of residency, the completed form, and your payment method (cash, check, or debit/credit card — accepted methods vary by office, so call ahead if you want to confirm). The staff will verify your documents, take a new photo, and process your renewal on the spot. You will receive a temporary paper license valid for 30 days while your plastic card is mailed to you, which typically arrives within two to three weeks.

If you are over 70, Arkansas requires you to renew in person every two years instead of every four years. If you have a medical condition that affects your ability to drive safely, you may be required to provide a medical certification form signed by your doctor. Bring any such documentation with you.

Mail Renewal for Valid Licenses

Mail renewal is available only if your current license is still valid (not expired). Complete DFA Form 226, gather your proof of residency, and include a check or money order for the renewal fee made payable to the Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration. Do not send cash.

Mail your documents to the address listed on the DMV website for your region. Include a copy of your current license (front and back) so the office can match it to your record. The processing time is typically two to three weeks from receipt. You will receive a temporary paper license by mail valid for 30 days, followed by your plastic card.

Mail renewal does not include a new photo. If you want a new photo on your renewed license, you must renew in person. If your address has changed, you can update it by mail, but you must include proof of your new residency dated within the last 60 days.

Online Renewal Through the Arkansas DMV Website

Online renewal is the fastest option if you are may be able to access. You can renew online if your Class D license is still valid, you do not need a new photo, your address has not changed, and you have no medical restrictions or name changes to process.

Visit the Arkansas DMV website, select the online renewal option, and follow the prompts. You will need your current license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your date of birth to verify your identity. Pay the renewal fee by debit or credit card. You will receive a temporary paper license by email when ready, valid for 30 days. Your plastic card will be mailed to your current address within two to three weeks.

If you do not meet the may be able to access requirements for online renewal — for example, if your license is expired, you need a new photo, or your address has changed — you will be directed to use mail or in-person renewal instead.

Renewal Fees and License Duration

Arkansas renewal fees depend on your license type and how long you want the license to be valid. A standard Class D license can be renewed for four years or eight years. The four-year renewal costs less than the eight-year renewal. Exact fees change periodically, so check the Arkansas DMV website for current amounts before you send payment or visit an office.

Commercial driver's licenses (CDL) have different renewal fees and may require medical certification. Motorcycle endorsements and other special endorsements may also have separate fees. If you are renewing a license with multiple endorsements, ask the office or check the website to confirm the total cost.

If you renew before your current license expires, you do not lose the time remaining on your old license. Your new license expiration date is calculated from the date you renew, not from the date your old license would have expired.

What Happens If Your License Is Expired

If your Arkansas license has already expired, you cannot use mail or online renewal. You must renew in person at a Driver Services office. Bring the same documents you would for a standard in-person renewal: your expired license, proof of residency, completed DFA Form 226, and payment.

An expired license does not disqualify you from renewal, but you will not be able to drive legally until your new license is issued. If you need to drive before your plastic card arrives, the temporary paper license you receive at the office is valid for 30 days and can be used as proof of your renewed license status.

If your license has been expired for more than a certain period (typically several years), Arkansas may require additional steps, such as retaking the written test or vision test. Call your local Driver Services office before you visit to confirm what will be required in your situation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my Arkansas license if I live out of state?

Yes. If you live outside Arkansas but hold an Arkansas license, you can renew by mail or online if you are may be able to access for those methods. Mail your completed DFA Form 226, a copy of your current license, proof of residency (which can be from your current state), and payment to the Arkansas DMV address for your region. Processing takes two to three weeks.

What if my name on my license does not match my current legal name?

You must renew in person and bring the document that proves your name change: a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. The office will update your record and issue a new license with your current legal name. You cannot make this change by mail or online.

Do I need a new photo when I renew?

A new photo is taken automatically during in-person renewal. If you renew by mail or online, your old photo remains on your license unless you specifically request a new one. To get a new photo by mail, you must renew in person instead.

How long is the temporary paper license valid?

Your temporary paper license is valid for 30 days from the date of renewal. Your plastic card should arrive within two to three weeks. If it does not arrive within that window, contact the Arkansas DMV to check the status of your card.

What if I need to renew before my current license expires but I am not sure of my exact expiration date?

Check the expiration date printed on your current license — it is on the front. You can renew any time before that date. If you cannot locate your license, call your local Driver Services office with your name and date of birth, and they can tell you when your license expires.

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.