DRIVER LICENSE GUIDE

Arkansas Driver’s License

This guide explains Driver's License requirements in Arkansas, including eligibility, documents, application steps, testing, fees and renewal.

ArkansasDriver's License
Official AgencyArkansas Department of Finance and Administration – Office of Driver Services
Minimum AgeLearner's license: 14–15. Intermediate license: 16–17. A regular unrestricted Class D license is available at 18, subject to Arkansas requirements. Certain 16–17-year-olds can qualify for an unrestricted license under specific exceptions.
Application FeeClass D license for ages 21 and older: $40. Fees for younger Class D licenses are prorated. Learner and intermediate licenses also have prorated fees.
License ValidityClass D: 8 years for drivers age 21 and older. Licenses for younger drivers have age-based expiration rules.

Last verified: 23/09/2026

WHAT THIS PAGE COVERS

Arkansas at a glance

This guide explains Driver's License requirements in Arkansas, including eligibility, documents, application steps, testing, fees and renewal.

Eligibility & Age Rules

<p>Arkansas uses a graduated licensing program. Learner licenses are for ages 14–15 and intermediate licenses for ages 16–17. Intermediate applicants must meet the required driving record conditions before moving to the next stage. At 18, eligible drivers can apply for a regular unrestricted license.</p>

Costs, timing and validity

Eligibility / age

Learner's license: 14–15. Intermediate license: 16–17. A regular unrestricted Class D license is available at 18, subject to Arkansas requirements. Certain 16–17-year-olds can qualify for an unrestricted license under specific exceptions.

Initial cost

Class D license for ages 21 and older: $40. Fees for younger Class D licenses are prorated. Learner and intermediate licenses also have prorated fees.

Renewal cost

Class D renewal for ages 21 and older: $40 for an 8-year license. Drivers age 70 and older can choose a 4-year $20 license or an 8-year $40 license.

Validity

Class D: 8 years for drivers age 21 and older. Licenses for younger drivers have age-based expiration rules.

Documents and information to prepare

Use the official checklist linked on this page as the final authority. The items below describe the information this state commonly expects for this credential.

New applicants need proof of legal presence, proof of identity and a Social Security card. Applicants should also be prepared for a vision exam and photograph. Additional documents can be required for a REAL ID, name change, minor driver, or other special circumstance.

How to apply

01

Prepare the required identity, legal-presence and Social Security documents, complete the applicable testing and vision screening, pay the fee, and follow the Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration instructions for issuance.

02

Teen applicants must complete the graduated licensing steps that apply to them.

Testing, Training & Restrictions

<p>Applicants should be prepared for a vision exam. First-time and teen applicants may need knowledge and driving tests depending on the licensing stage. The graduated program requires the appropriate learner or intermediate period before an unrestricted license.</p>

Renewal and ongoing requirements

<p>Class D licenses for drivers 21 and older are generally renewed for eight years. Arkansas allows renewal beginning 90 days before expiration. Drivers age 70 and older can choose a four- or eight-year license under the current fee schedule.</p>

Processing time

Varies by office, testing and document verification. Check Arkansas DFA for current office and credential-delivery information.

Important: This page is an independent informational resource. Requirements, fees and procedures can change. Verify the current rules with the relevant official authority before applying.