The Basic Steps to Get Your License Back

To reinstate a suspended license in Arkansas, you must first find out why your license was suspended, then handle that specific reason before the Department of Finance and Administration (DFA) will restore your driving privileges. The state does not have a single reinstatement process — what you do depends on whether your suspension came from unpaid traffic fines, a DUI conviction, failure to pay child support, or another cause. Once you have resolved the underlying issue, you submit proof to the DFA and pay a reinstatement fee.

The entire process typically takes two to four weeks from the time you submit your paperwork, though it can be faster if you handle everything in person at a DFA office. You cannot drive legally during this waiting period, even if you believe your suspension was a mistake.

Key Takeaways

  • Your suspension reason determines what you must do first — unpaid fines, DUI requirements, child support arrears, and insurance lapses each have different resolution steps.
  • Contact the Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration directly to learn the exact reason for your suspension and what proof of resolution they need.
  • You must pay a reinstatement fee (the amount varies by suspension type) along with submitting proof that the underlying issue is resolved.
  • Processing takes two to four weeks by mail; visiting a DFA office in person can sometimes speed this up.
  • Some suspensions, such as those for unpaid child support, may require court involvement or payment through a specific agency before the DFA will act.

Find Out Why Your License Was Suspended

The DFA mailed you a notice when your license was suspended, but if you no longer have that letter, you can contact the DFA Driver Services Division directly to learn the reason. Call 501-682-7060 during business hours (Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Central Time) or visit an office in person. Have your driver's license number or Social Security number ready when you call.

Common suspension reasons in Arkansas include: unpaid traffic fines or court costs; conviction of driving under the influence (DUI) or driving while intoxicated (DWI); failure to pay child support; lapse in auto insurance coverage; failure to appear in court; and accumulation of too many points on your driving record. Each reason requires a different action before reinstatement is possible.

Write down the exact reason, any case or ticket number, and the amount owed (if money is involved). This information is essential for the next step.

Resolve the Reason for Suspension

For unpaid traffic fines or court costs: Contact the court that issued the ticket or fine. You can find the correct court by searching the Arkansas Judicial System website or calling the county clerk's office. Pay the full amount owed, or arrange a payment plan if the court allows one. Ask for a receipt or written confirmation that the debt is paid in full — you will need this for the DFA.

For a DUI or DWI conviction: You must complete all court-ordered requirements, which typically include a substance abuse assessment, treatment or counseling (if recommended), a victim impact panel, and any probation or jail time. Some convictions also require installation of an ignition interlock device on your vehicle. The court will provide a document confirming completion of all requirements; keep this for your reinstatement request.

For unpaid child support: Contact the Arkansas Division of Human Services, Office of Child Support Enforcement, at 1-800-264-2778. You must bring your child support account current or arrange a court-approved payment plan. The office will provide written confirmation once the arrears are resolved or a plan is in place. Some cases require a court order before the DFA will reinstate your license.

For a lapsed insurance policy: Obtain proof of current auto insurance coverage from your insurance company. This proof (usually called a certificate of insurance or declarations page) must show that your vehicle is insured as of the date you submit your reinstatement request. You cannot straightforward purchase insurance after the fact; the DFA checks the insurance company's records directly.

For failure to appear in court: Contact the court listed in your suspension notice and resolve the underlying case. This may mean appearing in court, paying a fine, or completing a sentence. Once the case is resolved, ask the court for written confirmation.

Gather Your Reinstatement Documents

Once you have resolved the reason for suspension, collect the following before contacting the DFA:

  • Your driver's license number or Social Security number
  • Proof that the suspension reason has been resolved (receipt for paid fines, court completion document, child support confirmation, insurance certificate, or other relevant paperwork)
  • The reinstatement fee amount (call the DFA to confirm the exact fee for your suspension type)
  • A valid form of payment (check, money order, or credit/debit card if paying online or by phone)

Do not submit original documents unless the DFA specifically requests them. Make copies of everything and keep the originals for your records.

Submit Your Reinstatement Request

You have three options for submitting your reinstatement request to the Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration:

By mail: Send your proof of resolution and reinstatement fee to the DFA Driver Services Division, P.O. Box 1272, Little Rock, AR 72203. Include a cover letter with your name, driver's license number, and a brief explanation of what you are submitting. Processing by mail takes two to four weeks. Send everything by certified mail if you want proof of delivery.

In person: Visit a DFA office with your documents and fee. The main office is located at 1900 W. 7th Street, Little Rock, AR 72201. Regional offices are also available throughout the state. Bring the originals of your proof documents. In-person processing is sometimes faster, and staff can answer questions on the spot. Call ahead to confirm office hours and whether you need an appointment.

By phone: Call the DFA Driver Services Division at 501-682-7060 to ask whether your specific suspension type can be handled by phone. Some can; others require documents to be submitted in writing. If your suspension can be processed by phone, you will be told how to pay the reinstatement fee.

What Happens After You Submit

Once the DFA receives your reinstatement request and fee, a staff member will verify that the underlying issue has been resolved. If everything is in order, your license will be reinstated and you will receive written confirmation by mail. This confirmation typically arrives within two to four weeks. You do not need to wait for this letter to drive — your license is active as soon as the DFA processes your request — but it is wise to keep the letter for your records.

If the DFA finds that your proof of resolution is incomplete or unclear, they will contact you by phone or mail to request additional information. Respond promptly to avoid further delays. If you do not hear back within four weeks, call the DFA to check the status of your request.

Once your license is reinstated, you are responsible for maintaining compliance with all driving laws and insurance requirements. A second suspension is more difficult to reverse and may result in longer suspension periods or additional penalties.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive while my reinstatement request is being processed?

No. Your license remains suspended until the DFA officially reinstates it. Driving on a suspended license is illegal in Arkansas and can result in criminal charges, additional fines, and an extended suspension. Wait for written confirmation from the DFA before getting behind the wheel.

What if I cannot afford to pay the full fine or reinstatement fee right now?

Contact the court or agency that issued the original fine to ask about payment plans or hardship options. Some courts allow installment payments. The reinstatement fee itself is usually non-negotiable, but resolving the underlying debt through a payment plan may be possible. Call the DFA to discuss your situation; they may have options depending on your suspension reason.

How much does reinstatement cost?

The reinstatement fee varies depending on the reason for suspension and ranges from around $100 to $300. Call the DFA at 501-682-7060 to learn the exact fee for your suspension type before you submit your request.

What if my suspension was for points on my driving record?

If your license was suspended because you accumulated too many points, you must wait out a mandatory suspension period (usually 30 to 90 days depending on the number of points). Once the suspension period ends, you can request reinstatement by contacting the DFA and paying the reinstatement fee. No additional action is required beyond waiting and paying.

Can I get a hardship or work license while my license is suspended?

Arkansas does not issue hardship or work licenses for most suspension types. However, if your suspension is for unpaid fines or child support, you may be able to request a limited license for essential driving (work, medical appointments, court appearances) by petitioning the court that issued the original suspension. Contact the court directly to learn whether this option is available for your case.