The fastest way to change your address in Arkansas
You can change your address on your Arkansas driver's license online through the Arkansas Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) website, by mail, or in person at a DMV office. The online method is fastest — it takes about 10 minutes and you do not have to leave home. If you prefer to handle it in person or by mail, both options work, but in-person visits are usually quicker than waiting for mail processing.
You will need your current driver's license number, your new address, and a valid payment method if there is a fee. Arkansas does not charge a fee to update your address, so cost is not a barrier no matter which method you choose.
Key Takeaways
- The online method through the Arkansas DMV website is the fastest option and requires only your license number and new address.
- You can also change your address in person at any Arkansas DMV office or by mailing a completed form to the DMV.
- Arkansas does not charge a fee to update your address on your driver's license.
- Your new license will be mailed to your new address, so make sure it is correct before you submit.
- If you moved out of state or your license is expired, you may need to renew instead of straightforward updating your address.
Changing your address online through the Arkansas DMV
Visit the Arkansas DMV website and look for the address change option in the online services section. You will enter your driver's license number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number to verify your identity. Then you will enter your new address and review it carefully before submitting.
After you submit online, the DMV will mail a new license to your new address. The mailing usually takes 7 to 10 business days from the time you submit. You do not need to visit an office or mail anything in — everything happens through the website.
Keep your old license until the new one arrives. If you need to drive before the new license reaches you, your old license is still valid during the transition period.
Changing your address in person at a DMV office
Visit any Arkansas DMV office with your current driver's license and proof of your new address. Proof of address can be a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or other official document showing your name and new address. The office staff will update your record and order a new license on the spot.
Processing times at the office vary by location and how busy the office is that day. Some offices can issue a temporary license while you wait, though this depends on the specific office. Call ahead to ask whether your local office offers same-day temporary licenses.
Bring your current license and address proof with you. You do not need to fill out any forms beforehand — the DMV staff will handle the paperwork.
Changing your address by mail
read and print the address change form from the Arkansas DMV website, or call the DMV to request one be mailed to you. Fill out the form with your current license number, date of birth, and new address. Include a copy of proof of your new address — a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement works.
Mail the completed form and proof of address to the Arkansas DMV at the address listed on their website. Processing by mail typically takes 2 to 3 weeks from the time the DMV receives your envelope. Your new license will be mailed to your new address once it is processed.
Keep a copy of what you mail in case you need to follow up. If you do not receive your new license within 3 weeks, contact the DMV to check the status of your request.
What counts as proof of your new address
The Arkansas DMV accepts several types of documents as proof of address. A current utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet) in your name is the most common. A lease or rental agreement, mortgage statement, property tax bill, or bank statement showing your new address also work.
The document must show your name and your new address clearly. It should be dated within the last 60 days, though the DMV may accept older documents in some cases — call ahead if your document is older. A government-issued ID from another state or a voter registration card can also serve as proof in some situations.
Do not use a piece of mail addressed to you at your new address if it is from a business you do not have an account with. Stick to official documents like bills, leases, or government correspondence.
If your license is expired or you moved out of state
If your Arkansas driver's license has already expired, you cannot straightforward update your address — you will need to renew your license instead. Renewal involves a new photo and may require an in-person visit to a DMV office, depending on how long your license has been expired.
If you moved to another state, your Arkansas license is no longer valid for driving there. You will need to obtain a driver's license from your new state. Some states allow you to transfer your Arkansas license information to speed up the process, but each state has different rules. Contact the DMV in your new state to learn what documents you need.
How long the new license takes to arrive
Online submissions usually result in a new license arriving within 7 to 10 business days. In-person visits may result in a temporary license you can use right away, with a permanent license mailed within 1 to 2 weeks. Mail-in requests typically take 2 to 3 weeks from the time the DMV receives your envelope.
These timelines can vary depending on how busy the DMV is and whether there are any issues with your submission. If your new license does not arrive within the expected timeframe, contact the Arkansas DMV to check on its status. Have your license number and the date you submitted your request ready when you call.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to change my address before I move, or can I do it after?
You can change your address after you move. In fact, most people do this after they have settled into their new home. Arkansas law requires you to notify the DMV of a change of address within a reasonable time, but there is no specific important date. It is better to update it sooner rather than later so your license matches where you actually live.
What if I do not have a utility bill or lease to prove my new address?
Call the Arkansas DMV and explain your situation. They may accept alternative documents such as a bank statement, property tax bill, voter registration card, or a letter from a government agency. Some offices have flexibility if you are in a temporary living situation or do not have traditional proof of address yet.
Can I change my address if my license is suspended or revoked?
You can update your address even if your license is suspended or revoked. The DMV needs to know where to send correspondence about your license status. Use the same method you would normally use — online, in person, or by mail — and the address change will be processed separately from any suspension or revocation issue.
Will I get a new license number when I change my address?
No. Your license number stays the same. Only your address changes on the license. The new physical license card will have the same number printed on it, just with your updated address.
What if I made a mistake on my address change submission?
If you submitted online or by mail and realized you made an error, contact the Arkansas DMV right away before your new license is printed. If you caught the mistake in person at an office, tell the staff member when ready and they can correct it. If your new license arrives with the wrong address, you will need to submit another address change request.