The documents and steps to get licensed in Arkansas

To get your first Arkansas driver's license, you'll need to pass a written test, a road test, and a vision screening. You'll also need to bring specific documents that prove your identity, residency, and Social Security number. The whole process takes at least two visits to the Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration's Driver Services office — one to get your learner's permit and pass the written test, and another to pass the road test and receive your license.

Arkansas does not have a separate learner's permit stage that you must hold for a set number of days before testing for your license. You can take both tests on the same day if you pass the written exam first, though most people spread them across two visits to have time to practice driving.

Key Takeaways

  • You must bring an original or certified birth certificate, a Social Security card or tax document showing your number, and proof of Arkansas residency such as a utility bill or lease.
  • The written test covers road signs, traffic laws, and safe driving practices; you need to score at least 70 percent to pass.
  • The road test lasts about 20 to 30 minutes and includes basic vehicle control, turns, parking, and following traffic laws.
  • You must be at least 16 years old to take the written test and at least 16 years and 6 months old to take the road test.
  • Arkansas charges a fee for your license that varies based on how long you want it to last — typically $24.50 for a four-year license or $36.75 for an eight-year license.

Documents you must bring to the Driver Services office

Bring your original or certified birth certificate. A photocopy will not work. If you were born outside the United States, bring your passport or a Certificate of Naturalization or Citizenship.

Bring proof of your Social Security number. This can be your actual Social Security card, a W-2 form, a 1099 form, or a tax return showing your number. A letter from the Social Security Administration also works.

Bring two documents that prove you live in Arkansas. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, a lease or rental agreement, a mortgage statement, a bank statement, or a government check. The documents must show your name and current address. A post office box does not count as proof of residency.

Bring a completed process for an Arkansas Driver's License or Instruction Permit (Form DFA 205). You can read this form from the Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration website or fill it out at the office.

The written test: what to expect and how to prepare

The written test has 25 questions and covers Arkansas traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You must answer at least 18 questions correctly — a score of 70 percent — to pass. The test is multiple choice and you take it on a computer at the Driver Services office.

The test draws from the Arkansas Driver's Manual, which is free and available on the Department of Finance and Administration website. The manual covers right-of-way rules, speed limits, parking, what different road signs mean, and how to handle emergencies like brake failure or a skid. Reading the manual once is usually enough to pass, though taking practice tests online can help you feel more confident.

If you fail the written test, you can retake it the same day or come back another day. There is no waiting period between attempts in Arkansas.

The road test: vehicle requirements and what the examiner will check

The road test lasts about 20 to 30 minutes. The examiner will ask you to perform basic driving tasks: starting the vehicle, turning, changing lanes, parking (both parallel and perpendicular), backing up, and following traffic laws. You will drive on both city streets and highways, depending on which office you test at.

You must bring a vehicle that is registered, insured, and in safe working condition. The vehicle must have working headlights, taillights, brake lights, turn signals, windshield wipers, and mirrors. The examiner will check these before you drive. The vehicle must also have a valid inspection sticker if Arkansas requires one at the time you test.

You cannot use a vehicle with an automatic transmission if you want a manual transmission endorsement, and vice versa. The vehicle you test in determines what you are licensed to drive.

Age requirements and restrictions for new drivers

You must be at least 16 years old to take the written test and receive an instruction permit. You must be at least 16 years and 6 months old to take the road test and receive your full driver's license.

If you are under 18, your license will have restrictions. You cannot drive between midnight and 4 a.m. unless you are driving to or from work, school, or a medical appointment. You also cannot use a cell phone while driving, even for hands-free calls, unless it is an emergency. These restrictions lift when you turn 18.

License types and what each one lets you drive

A Class D license is the standard license for driving a passenger car, pickup truck, or van. This is what most first-time drivers receive.

A Class C license is for driving a single vehicle that weighs more than 26,000 pounds, such as a large truck or RV. You need a Class C if you want to drive a vehicle in this weight range.

A Class B license is for driving a bus or other vehicle designed to carry more than 15 passengers. You need a Class B if you want to drive a school bus or commercial bus.

A Class A license is for driving a combination of vehicles — typically a tractor and trailer. This is a commercial license and requires additional testing and endorsements.

Most first-time drivers start with a Class D license. You can add endorsements to your license later if you need to drive motorcycles, tow trailers, or operate other vehicle types.

Fees and how long your license lasts

An Arkansas driver's license costs $24.50 for a four-year license or $36.75 for an eight-year license. You choose the length when you explore. The fee is the same whether you are 16 or 65.

If you are under 21, your license will be a different color than an adult license. This is so law enforcement and businesses can easily see your age. The color difference does not affect what you can drive or any of your driving privileges.

Your license is valid for the number of years you paid for. When it expires, you must renew it at a Driver Services office. Renewal requires a new photo and a vision test, but not a new written or road test.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take the written test and road test on the same day?

Yes, if you pass the written test first. However, you must pass the written test before you can take the road test, so you cannot do them in reverse order. Many people choose to take the tests on different days to have time to practice driving between them.

What happens if I fail the road test?

You can retake the road test after waiting at least one day. There is no limit to how many times you can retake it. Each attempt costs the same fee as the first test, so budget for multiple attempts if you need them.

Do I need a learner's permit before I can take the road test?

No. Arkansas does not require you to hold a learner's permit for any length of time before taking the road test. However, you must pass the written test first. Many people get the permit and practice for a few weeks before attempting the road test.

What if I was born outside the United States?

Bring your passport, Certificate of Naturalization, or Certificate of Citizenship instead of a birth certificate. You still need proof of your Social Security number and two documents showing Arkansas residency. If you are not a U.S. citizen, you may still be able to get a license — contact your local Driver Services office to confirm what documents you need.

Can I renew my license online or by mail?

Arkansas does not offer online or mail renewal for driver's licenses. You must visit a Driver Services office in person for renewal. However, you can check your license status and find office locations and hours on the Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration website.