From Foreign Roads to Arkansas Highways: Your Guide to Exchanging a Driver's License

Welcome to Arkansas! As you settle into your new life in The Natural State, one of the most important steps you'll take is getting a valid Arkansas driver's license. Driving with a foreign license is only a temporary solution, and navigating the process to exchange it can seem complex.

This guide provides a clear, step-by-step process for new residents with a license from another country to successfully obtain their Arkansas driver's license.

Understanding the Basics: Does Everyone Need to Retest?

The first question most newcomers have is whether they need to start from scratch. The answer depends on your country of origin and existing agreements. However, for most foreign nationals, the process will involve taking both a written knowledge test and a skills (road) test.

Even if you are an experienced driver, you must prove your understanding of Arkansas-specific traffic laws and demonstrate your ability to drive safely according to local standards.

Step 1: Study the Arkansas Driver License Study Guide

Your journey begins with knowledge. The Arkansas Driver License Study Guide is the official resource for all the information you'll need to pass the written exam. This manual covers traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices unique to Arkansas.

• Where to Find It: The study guide is available for download on the Arkansas State Police or Department of Public Safety websites.
• Multi-Language Options: Manuals are available in multiple languages, including Spanish and Vietnamese, to assist you in your studies.
• Practice Tests: Take advantage of official online practice tests to gauge your understanding before the real exam.

Step 2: Gather Your Required Documentation

This is the most critical and detailed step. Having all your documents in perfect order will prevent delays. The requirements can be strict, so pay close attention.

Essential Documents for All Foreign Applicants:

• Your Foreign Driver's License: Bring your original, valid driver's license from your home country.
• Passport with U.S. Visa: You must present your valid passport.
• I-94 Form (Arrival/Departure Record): You need your current I-94 record. You can retrieve the most recent version from the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) website.
• Proof of Legal Presence in the U.S.: This is often covered by your visa and I-94, but can also include a Permanent Resident Card (Green Card) or an Employment Authorization Document (EAD).
• Proof of Arkansas Residency: You must prove you live in Arkansas. This typically requires two documents with your name and Arkansas address, such as:
  • Utility bills (electric, water, gas)
  • Bank statements
  • Lease agreements
  • Official mail from a government agency
• Social Security Number (SSN) or Affidavit: If you have been issued an SSN, you must provide proof. If you are not eligible for an SSN, you will need to sign an affidavit at the testing center stating this.

A Crucial Note on Translations: While the Arkansas State Police checklist may state that translated documents are not accepted, this can be a complex area. If your primary documents (like a birth certificate, if required for identity verification) are not in English, it is highly advisable to contact the specific testing center or the Arkansas State Police directly for guidance on how they handle non-English documents. For a foreign license itself, the examiner will primarily be concerned with your identity documents.

Step 3: The Written Knowledge Test

Once you've studied the manual and gathered your documents, you can take the written test.

• No Appointment Needed (Usually): For the written test, you can typically walk in at a designated Arkansas State Police testing center. However, it's always best to check the schedule for your chosen location online.
• Immigration Document Review: If you are a non-U.S. citizen, you may be able to select an appointment type specifically for those with immigration documents, which allows more time for the examiner to review everything.
• Passing the Test: The test is computerized and consists of multiple-choice questions about Arkansas traffic laws, signs, and safety. If you pass, you will be issued an Instruction Permit.

Step 4: The Instruction Permit and Practice Period

Upon passing the written exam, you won't immediately get your full license. You will receive an Instruction Permit.

• The 30-Day Rule: You must hold this permit for a minimum of 30 calendar days before you are eligible to take the road test. You can take the test on the 31st day.
• Driving with a Supervisor: The instruction permit allows you to practice driving, but you MUST be accompanied by a licensed driver who is at least 21 years old. You are not legally allowed to drive alone with just a permit.

Step 5: The Skills (Road) Test

This is the final step to prove your driving ability.

• Schedule an Appointment: Unlike the written test, you must schedule an appointment for the skills test. You can do this online through the Arkansas State Police scheduling portal.
• Vehicle and Accompaniment: You must bring a vehicle that meets all state safety requirements (see our Road Test Checklist for details) and be accompanied by a licensed driver over 21.
• The Evaluation: An examiner will ride with you and give you instructions. They will evaluate you on maneuvers like backing, turning, changing lanes, obeying traffic signals, and overall vehicle control.

Step 6: Receiving Your Arkansas Driver's License!

Congratulations! After you successfully pass the road test, the examiner will certify your results. You will then take that certification to an Arkansas Revenue Office.

At the Revenue Office, you will present your documents one last time, pay the licensing fee, and have your picture taken. You will then be issued your official Arkansas driver's license.

Navigating this process takes careful preparation, but by following these steps, you can confidently transition from the roads of your home country to the scenic highways of Arkansas.