Renewing Your Arkansas Driver's License: Online, In-Person, and What You Need to Know

While earning your first driver's license is a major event, keeping it valid is an ongoing responsibility for every driver in Arkansas. Over time, licenses expire, and the state requires you to renew them to ensure you remain a legal and safe driver.

Fortunately, the Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration (DFA) offers multiple ways to renew your license, including a convenient online option for many drivers. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about the renewal process.

When Do You Need to Renew Your License?

In Arkansas, a standard Class D driver's license for an adult is typically valid for eight years, expiring on your birthday. [6, 8, 10] For younger drivers, the expiration dates align with GDL milestones, often expiring on their 18th or 21st birthday. [3, 10]

The DFA may send you a renewal notice in the mail as a courtesy, but it is ultimately your responsibility to know your expiration date and renew on time. [10, 33] Driving with an expired license is illegal. [8]

Renewal Method 1: In-Person at a DFA Revenue Office

For many drivers, renewing in person is the required method. It is mandatory if:

You are upgrading to a REAL ID for the first time. [7]
You need to change your name. [21]
Your license has been expired for more than 31 days. [6, 10]
You were not eligible for online renewal.

What to Do and What to Bring:

Locate a Revenue Office: Find the DFA Revenue Office nearest to you. While appointments are not always mandatory, scheduling one can save you significant waiting time. [8, 10]
Bring Your Current License: Your existing Arkansas driver's license will serve as your primary form of identification. [6, 31]
Pass a Vision Test: A vision screening is required during in-person renewals to ensure your eyesight still meets the state's minimum standards for driving. [31] If you wear glasses or contacts, be sure to have them with you.
Provide Additional Documents (if applicable):
- For a REAL ID: If you are getting your first REAL ID, you must bring the full set of documentation: one proof of legal presence, one proof of identity, one proof of your Social Security number, and two proofs of Arkansas residency. [7]
- For a Name Change: You must bring the original or certified legal document proving the change, such as a marriage certificate or court order. [21]
Pay the Renewal Fee: The standard renewal fee for an eight-year Class D license is $40. [6, 8, 31] The Revenue Office typically accepts cash, check, or credit/debit cards.
Get Your Photo Taken: A new picture will be taken for your new license. You'll receive a temporary paper license, and your permanent card will be mailed to you.

Renewal Method 2: Online with MyDMV

Arkansas offers a convenient online renewal service through the MyDMV.arkansas.gov portal. This allows eligible drivers to renew from home without visiting a Revenue Office.

Who Is Eligible for Online Renewal?

While rules can change, you are generally eligible for online renewal if:

You are between the ages of 18 and 70. [10]
Your current license is valid or has not been expired for long. [10]
You are not required to get a new photo.
You do not need to change your name or address.
Your license is not suspended or revoked.

How to Renew Online:

Visit the Official MyDMV Website: Navigate to the official Arkansas DFA online services portal.
Log In or Create an Account: You will need to enter information to verify your identity and access your record.
Follow the On-Screen Instructions: The system will walk you through the renewal application process step-by-step.
Pay the Fee: You will need a credit or debit card to pay the $40 renewal fee, plus any small online processing fees. [10]
Receive Confirmation: After payment, you'll get a confirmation receipt. Your new license will be mailed to the address the DFA has on file.

What if Your License Is Expired?

Arkansas offers a short grace period. If your license has been expired for less than 31 days, you can generally renew it in person without penalty or the need to retake tests. [10] However, if your license has been expired for more than 31 days, you will be required to retake both the written knowledge test and the road skills test before you can renew. [6, 10]

Renewing from Out-of-State

If you are an Arkansas resident who is temporarily out of state (such as active-duty military personnel or a college student), you may be eligible to renew by mail. You will need to contact the DFA's Driver's License Issuance department directly by phone or email to request a renewal packet to be mailed to you. [21]

By staying aware of your expiration date and understanding your renewal options, you can ensure the process is quick, easy, and keeps you legally on the roads of the Natural State.