Renewing Your Arkansas License: The Basic Path

You can renew your Arkansas driver's license by mail, online, or in person at a Driver Services office. Most people renew by mail or online because it takes less time than a visit to an office. You'll need your current license, proof you live in Arkansas, and payment for the renewal fee. The process depends on whether your license is still valid, how long it's been expired, and whether you need to update any information.

Arkansas licenses are valid for four or eight years depending on your age. If your license expired less than two years ago, you can renew it through any method. If it expired more than two years ago, you must renew in person at a Driver Services office.

Key Takeaways

  • You can renew by mail, online, or in person, but mail and online are faster for most people.
  • Your current license must not be expired by more than two years, or you'll have to visit a Driver Services office in person.
  • You'll need proof of your current Arkansas address, such as a utility bill or lease agreement.
  • The renewal fee varies by license type and length, but typically ranges from $20 to $40.
  • Online renewal is available through the Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration website.

Renewing by Mail

Mail renewal is straightforward if your license hasn't been expired for more than two years. You'll fill out an process form, include a copy of your current license, and mail everything to the address provided by the Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration. Include a check or money order for the renewal fee. The state will process your process and mail your new license to the address on file.

Mail renewal typically takes two to three weeks from the time the state receives your process. You can continue driving on your current license while you wait. If you need your license sooner, in-person renewal is faster — you'll receive your new license the same day or within a few days.

Renewing Online

Online renewal through the Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration website is the fastest option for most people. You'll log in with your driver's license number and date of birth, review your information, make any necessary updates, and pay the renewal fee by credit or debit card. The state will mail your new license to your address on file.

Online renewal takes about one to two weeks for delivery. You must have a valid email address on file and access to a computer or smartphone. If your address has changed, you can update it during the online process. Your current license remains valid while you wait for the new one to arrive.

Renewing in Person at a Driver Services Office

Visit a Driver Services office if your license expired more than two years ago, if you need to change your address or other information, or if you prefer to handle the renewal face-to-face. Bring your current license, proof of your Arkansas address, and payment for the renewal fee. You may also need to bring your Social Security card or other identification documents depending on what you're updating.

In-person renewal is fastest — you'll receive your new license when ready or within a few days. Arkansas has Driver Services offices in most counties. You can find the office nearest you and check its hours on the Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration website. Some offices accept walk-ins, while others require you to schedule an appointment. Call ahead or check online to confirm the office's process.

What You'll Need to Bring

For any renewal method, have your current Arkansas driver's license ready. You'll also need proof that you live in Arkansas. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, bank statement, or government mail with your current address. The document must show your name and current address.

If you're renewing in person and have changed your name, address, or other information since your last license was issued, bring documents that support those changes. A marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order can verify a name change. You'll also need payment for the renewal fee — cash, check, money order, or credit card depending on the method you choose.

Renewal Fees and License Validity

Arkansas renewal fees depend on your age and the length of the license you're getting. A four-year license costs less than an eight-year license. Drivers under 21 pay a different rate than drivers 21 and older. The exact fee varies, so check the Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration website for current pricing before you renew.

Your new license will be valid for either four or eight years from the date of issue, depending on which option you choose. Older drivers may be limited to shorter renewal periods. Your license will show the expiration date clearly on the front.

If Your License Has Been Expired for More Than Two Years

You cannot renew by mail or online if your license expired more than two years ago. You must visit a Driver Services office in person. The office staff will process your renewal and may ask you to take a vision test or answer questions about your driving record. Bring all the documents listed above, including proof of your address and payment for the renewal fee.

The in-person process takes longer than a standard renewal because the office needs to verify your information and may support you're still may be able to access to hold a license. Plan to spend 30 minutes to an hour at the office. You'll receive your new license the same day or within a few days by mail.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my license if it's already expired?

Yes, you can renew an expired license as long as it hasn't been expired for more than two years. If it's been expired longer than that, you must renew in person at a Driver Services office. You cannot legally drive on an expired license, so renew as soon as possible.

How do I know if I'm may be able to access for online or mail renewal?

Check your current license's expiration date. If it expired less than two years ago, you can renew by mail or online. If it expired more than two years ago or you need to change your address or other information, renew in person at a Driver Services office.

What if my address has changed since I got my current license?

You can update your address during online renewal or mail renewal. If you're renewing in person, bring proof of your new address and the office will update it. Your new license will show your current address.

How long does it take to get my new license after I renew?

In-person renewal is fastest — you'll get your license the same day or within a few days. Mail renewal takes two to three weeks. Online renewal takes one to two weeks. You can drive on your current license while you wait for the new one to arrive.

What if I lost my current license?

You cannot renew by mail or online if you don't have your current license. Visit a Driver Services office in person with proof of your address and identity. The office will issue a replacement license, which counts as a renewal if your license hasn't expired yet.