How to renew your Arkansas driver's license
You can renew your Arkansas driver's license by mail, online, or in person at a Driver Services office. The method you choose depends on whether your license is still valid, how much time you have before expiration, and whether you need to update your photo. Most people renew by mail or online without visiting an office, but in-person renewal is required if your license has been expired for more than two years or if you need a new photo.
Arkansas licenses expire on your birthday, four years after issue. The state sends renewal notices about 60 days before expiration, though you should not wait for the notice to start the process. You can renew up to one year before your license expires.
Key Takeaways
- Arkansas offers mail, online, and in-person renewal, and you can start up to one year before your license expires.
- Mail and online renewal cost $20 and take about two weeks; in-person renewal costs $20 and is when ready.
- You must renew in person if your license has been expired for more than two years or if you want a new photo.
- The Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration, Driver Services Division, processes all renewals.
- You will need your current license number, Social Security number, and proof of residency for any renewal method.
Renewing by mail in Arkansas
Mail renewal is the slowest but most convenient option if your license is still valid and you do not need a new photo. You will receive a renewal form in the mail about 60 days before expiration. Fill it out, include a check or money order for $20 payable to the Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration, and mail everything to the address on the form.
Processing takes about two weeks from the time the office receives your envelope. Your new license will arrive by mail. Do not mail your old license; keep it until the new one arrives. If you do not receive the renewal form in the mail, you can request one by calling the Driver Services Division at 501-682-7060 or visiting a local office.
Renewing online in Arkansas
Online renewal is the fastest option and available if your license is current and you do not need a new photo. Visit the Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration website and look for the online renewal portal. You will need your driver's license number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number to log in.
Pay the $20 fee by credit or debit card. Your new license will be mailed to the address on file and should arrive within two weeks. Online renewal is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and you will receive a confirmation number when ready after payment.
Renewing in person at a Driver Services office
In-person renewal is required if your license has been expired for more than two years, if you want a new photo, or if you are changing your name or address. Bring your current license, proof of Social Security number (Social Security card, W-2, or tax return), and proof of residency (utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days). If you have changed your name, bring a certified copy of the document that shows the change—marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order.
You will have your photo taken and receive your new license the same day. The fee is $20. Driver Services offices are located in Little Rock and in regional offices throughout the state. You can find the office nearest you and check hours on the Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration website. Walk-ins are accepted, but you may wait longer during peak times.
What happens if your license expires
Driving with an expired license is illegal in Arkansas, even if you have submitted a renewal process. If your license expires while your renewal is being processed, you should carry proof that you have applied—a confirmation number from online renewal or a receipt from the mail office.
If your license has been expired for more than two years, you cannot renew by mail or online. You must visit a Driver Services office in person and may be required to pass a written test and vision screening before receiving a new license. The longer your license has been expired, the more steps you may need to repeat.
Fees and what they cover
Arkansas driver's license renewal costs $20, regardless of whether you renew by mail, online, or in person. This fee covers a four-year license valid through your birthday on the fourth year after renewal. There are no additional fees for standard renewal.
If you need a Real ID-compliant license (required for federal building entry and domestic air travel), the cost is the same. If you are renewing in person and want to change your address or name at the same time, there is no extra charge—it is included in the $20 fee.
Documents you need for each renewal method
| Renewal Method | Documents Needed | Cost | Time to Receive |
|---|---|---|---|
| Renewal form (sent by mail), check or money order | $20 | About 2 weeks | |
| Online | License number, date of birth, last 4 digits of SSN, credit or debit card | $20 | About 2 weeks |
| In Person | Current license, proof of SSN, proof of residency, cash or card | $20 | Same day |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my Arkansas license online if it has already expired?
No. Online renewal is only for licenses that are still valid. If your license has expired, you must renew by mail or in person. If it has been expired for more than two years, you must go to a Driver Services office in person.
What if I move to a different address before my license expires?
You can update your address by mail or online during renewal at no extra cost. If you need to change your address before renewal, you must visit a Driver Services office in person. Bring proof of your new address, such as a utility bill or lease dated within the last 60 days.
How do I know if my license is Real ID-compliant?
A Real ID-compliant Arkansas license has a gold star in the upper right corner. When you renew, you can request a Real ID license at no extra cost. You will need to bring proof of citizenship (passport or birth certificate) and proof of Social Security number in addition to your regular renewal documents.
What if I do not receive my renewal form in the mail?
Call the Driver Services Division at 501-682-7060 or visit a local office to request a form. You can also renew online if your license is still valid. Do not wait for the form to arrive if your license is about to expire.
Can someone else pick up or mail in my renewal for me?
Yes. For mail renewal, anyone can mail your completed form and payment on your behalf. For in-person renewal, you must be present to have your photo taken and sign documents. A family member or friend cannot renew for you in person.