Arkansas Driver's License Renewal: The Basic Process
In Arkansas, you can renew your driver's license by mail, online, or in person at a Driver Services office. The method you choose depends on your license type, how much time remains before expiration, and whether you need to update your address or other information. Most renewals take 7 to 10 business days by mail, 1 to 3 business days online, or same-day if you go in person.
Your Arkansas driver's license is valid for four years from the date of issue. The state sends renewal notices about 60 days before expiration, but you do not have to wait for that notice to renew. You can renew up to one year before your license expires.
Key Takeaways
- Arkansas offers three renewal methods: mail, online through the Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration website, or in person at any Driver Services office.
- Online renewal is the fastest option and costs $20 for a four-year license, but you must have a valid Social Security number and no address changes since your last renewal.
- Mail renewal requires the renewal notice sent by the state, a check or money order, and takes 7 to 10 business days; the fee is $20.
- In-person renewal at a Driver Services office requires a current ID, proof of residency, and Social Security verification, and you can complete it the same day.
- If your license has been expired for more than one year, you cannot renew by mail or online and must appear in person with original documents.
Online Renewal: Fastest Option for Most People
Online renewal through the Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration website is the quickest method if you meet the requirements. You can renew online if your license is not yet expired, you have not changed your address since your last renewal, and you have a valid Social Security number on file with the state.
To renew online, visit the Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration Driver Services portal, enter your driver's license number and date of birth, and follow the prompts to pay the $20 renewal fee by debit or credit card. You will receive a temporary digital license when ready, and your physical license will arrive by mail within 1 to 3 business days. You can use the temporary license while you wait for the card.
Online renewal does not work if you need to change your address, update your name, or correct any information on your license. If any of those explore, you must renew by mail or in person.
Mail Renewal: Using Your Renewal Notice
Mail renewal is available if you received a renewal notice from the Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration and your license is not yet expired. The notice includes a form you must complete and return with payment.
To renew by mail, fill out the renewal form included in your notice, write a check or money order for $20 payable to the Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration, and mail both to the address printed on the form. Do not send cash. Include your current mailing address on the form. Processing takes 7 to 10 business days after the state receives your envelope, so mail your renewal at least two weeks before your license expires.
If you did not receive a renewal notice or lost it, you can request a new one by calling the Arkansas Driver Services hotline at 501-682-7060, or you can renew in person instead. Mail renewal is not available if your license expired more than one year ago.
In-Person Renewal at a Driver Services Office
Renewing in person at an Arkansas Driver Services office is the best option if your license has been expired for more than one year, you need to change your address or name, or you prefer to complete the process when ready. You can walk in without an appointment at any Driver Services office during business hours.
Bring a current form of ID (passport, military ID, or another state's driver's license), proof of your current address (utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days), and your Social Security card or a document showing your Social Security number. If you do not have your Social Security card, bring a W-2, tax return, or 1099 form instead. The fee is $20, and you can pay by cash, check, debit card, or credit card.
Driver Services offices are located in Little Rock, Fort Smith, Jonesboro, Pine Bluff, Texarkana, and Hot Springs. Hours vary by location, but most are open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. You can find the office nearest you and its exact hours on the Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration website.
What Happens If Your License Expired More Than One Year Ago
If your Arkansas driver's license has been expired for more than one year, you cannot renew by mail or online. You must renew in person at a Driver Services office and bring original documents to verify your identity and residency.
Bring your expired license, a current form of ID, proof of your current address, and your Social Security card or equivalent document. You will also need to pass a vision test at the office. The fee remains $20. Processing is same-day, and you will receive your new license before you leave.
Fees and Payment Methods
Arkansas charges $20 for a four-year driver's license renewal, regardless of the method you choose. Online and in-person renewals accept cash, check, debit card, and credit card. Mail renewal requires a check or money order only; do not send cash through the mail.
If you are renewing a commercial driver's license (CDL), the fee is higher and varies depending on the endorsements you hold. Contact Driver Services directly at 501-682-7060 to confirm the exact fee for your CDL renewal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Do not wait until your license expires to renew. You can renew up to one year early, and doing so avoids the risk of driving on an expired license. If you miss the expiration date, you cannot renew by mail or online and must go in person with original documents.
Do not send cash by mail. Use a check or money order only. Do not forget to include your current mailing address on the renewal form if you are renewing by mail; the state will mail your new license to the address you provide, and if it is wrong, you may not receive your card.
Do not assume your address change will process automatically if you renew online. Online renewal does not allow address changes; if you have moved, you must renew by mail or in person and provide proof of your new address.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my Arkansas driver's license if I have moved out of state?
No. You must renew in person at a Driver Services office in Arkansas and provide proof of a current Arkansas address. If you no longer live in Arkansas, you will need to obtain a driver's license from your new state instead.
What if I lost my renewal notice?
Call the Arkansas Driver Services hotline at 501-682-7060 and request a new notice, or renew in person at any Driver Services office. You do not need the notice to renew in person.
How long does it take to receive my new license by mail?
Mail renewal takes 7 to 10 business days after the state receives your envelope. Online renewal is faster: you receive a temporary digital license when ready and your physical card within 1 to 3 business days.
Can I renew my license if my name has changed since my last renewal?
Yes, but you must renew in person or by mail and bring a document proving your name change, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. Online renewal does not allow name changes.
What if my license was suspended or revoked?
You cannot renew a suspended or revoked license. Contact the Arkansas Driver Services office directly at 501-682-7060 to find out the reason for the suspension or revocation and what steps you must take to restore your driving privileges.