What the Arkansas written test covers and how it's scored

Arkansas tests you on road signs, right-of-way rules, speed limits, parking, and safe driving practices. The test has 25 questions, and you need 18 correct answers to pass — that's 72 percent. You get one attempt per visit to the Department of Finance and Administration (DFA) office, though you can return on another day if you fail.

The questions come from the Arkansas Driver License Study Guide, which the DFA publishes free online and in print at any DFA office. Every question on the test appears in that guide, so there are no surprises. The test is multiple choice with four options per question. You answer on a computer at the testing station, and you get your score when ready.

Arkansas does not offer the test in languages other than English. If you need language support, you can bring a certified interpreter to the testing station, but you must arrange this ahead of time by contacting your local DFA office.

Key Takeaways

  • You must answer at least 18 of 25 questions correctly to pass the Arkansas written test.
  • Every question on the test comes from the free Arkansas Driver License Study Guide, which you can read from the DFA website or pick up in person.
  • You take the test on a computer at a DFA office and receive your score the same day.
  • If you fail, you can retake the test on a different day, but there is a fee each time you test.

How to study the Arkansas Driver License Study Guide

The Arkansas Driver License Study Guide is organized by topic: traffic signs, right-of-way, speed and stopping, parking, and safe driving. Read through each section and pay close attention to the explanations, not just the answers. Many test-takers miss questions because they memorize answers without understanding the rule behind them.

Focus extra time on right-of-way rules and what different road signs mean. These topics make up a large portion of the test. When you see a sign or rule in the guide, try to picture yourself driving and deciding what to do. For example, if the guide shows a yield sign, imagine approaching an intersection and understanding when you must slow down or stop.

Take practice tests if the DFA offers them online or at the office. Some DFA locations have computers where you can take a sample test before your real test day. This helps you get used to the computer format and the time limit. The test is not timed, so you can take as long as you need to answer each question.

What to bring and expect on test day

Bring a valid form of identification — a passport, birth certificate, or state ID card. You will also need proof of your Social Security number, such as a Social Security card or tax return. Bring two proofs of your current address, such as a utility bill, lease, or bank statement. These documents must be in your name and dated within the last 60 days.

Arrive at the DFA office at least 15 minutes before your appointment. You will check in at the front desk, and staff will verify your documents. They will then take you to a computer station where you will answer the 25 questions. You cannot use a phone, calculator, or any other device during the test. You can ask the test administrator for clarification if you do not understand a question, but they cannot help you answer it.

The test room is usually quiet, and you will be seated at a private computer station. After you finish, the computer will display your score. If you pass, you move on to the road test scheduling. If you fail, you can pay the fee and schedule another test for a different day.

Common mistakes Arkansas test-takers make

Many people fail because they confuse similar road signs. For example, a yield sign and a stop sign look different, but drivers sometimes mix up what each one requires. A yield sign means slow down and be ready to stop if traffic is coming. A stop sign means come to a complete stop, even if no traffic is visible. Spend time in the study guide comparing signs that look alike.

Another common mistake is misunderstanding right-of-way at four-way stops. Arkansas law says that if two vehicles arrive at a four-way stop at the same time, the vehicle on the right has the right of way. Many test-takers forget this rule or confuse it with other scenarios. Read the right-of-way section of the study guide more than once.

Test-takers also often miss questions about speed limits in school zones and residential areas. Arkansas has specific rules about when speed limits change, and the test includes several questions about these situations. Pay attention to the numbers: school zones often have lower limits during certain hours, and residential areas have their own rules.

What happens if you fail the test

If you score below 18 correct answers, you do not pass. You will receive a score report showing which topics you missed. Review that report and study those sections again in the Arkansas Driver License Study Guide. Many people pass on their second or third attempt after focusing on their weak areas.

There is a fee each time you take the test. The fee varies by DFA office, but it is typically between $10 and $20. You can retake the test as soon as the next business day if you want to, or you can wait longer and study more. There is no limit on how many times you can take the test, but each attempt costs money.

If you fail multiple times, consider asking a friend or family member to quiz you from the study guide, or visit a DFA office and ask staff if they have practice tests available. Some offices offer free practice tests on computers, which can help you get comfortable with the format before your next real attempt.

After you pass the written test

Once you pass, you will schedule your road test with the same DFA office. The road test is usually scheduled within a few weeks, depending on how busy the office is. You will drive with a DFA examiner who watches how you handle the vehicle, follow traffic laws, and respond to road conditions. The road test lasts about 20 to 30 minutes.

Before your road test, make sure your vehicle is in safe condition. The examiner will check that your brakes, lights, windshield wipers, and mirrors all work. Bring proof of insurance and your vehicle registration. You must also bring the same identification documents you brought to the written test.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take the Arkansas written test online from home?

No. Arkansas requires you to take the written test in person at a DFA office on a computer provided by the office. You cannot take it online or by mail. You must visit a DFA location during business hours to test.

How long do I have to answer each question on the Arkansas test?

There is no time limit per question. You can take as long as you need to read and answer each of the 25 questions. The test is not timed overall, so you can work at your own pace.

What if I do not pass the written test on my first try?

You can retake the test on another day. Review the study guide, focusing on the topics where you missed questions. There is a fee each time you test, but you can take it as many times as needed until you pass.

Is the Arkansas written test available in other languages?

The test is only offered in English. If you need language support, you may bring a certified interpreter to the testing station, but you must arrange this in advance by contacting your local DFA office.

Do I need to schedule an appointment for the written test?

This varies by DFA office. Some offices accept walk-ins, while others require appointments. Contact your local DFA office to find out their policy and current wait times before you visit.