How to Renew Your Drivers License in Arkansas

Renewing your Arkansas driver’s license every four years ensures your personal information is current with the Department of Finance and Administration (DFA). While this process is often mistaken for getting a replacement license, the two are not the same. Renewals are for updating a valid, expiring license—replacements are for lost or damaged cards.

Who Can Renew a Driver’s License in Arkansas?

Any licensed driver in Arkansas can renew in person at a DFA office. However, younger drivers—especially those between 14 and 16—may face additional renewal restrictions based on the type of license they hold.

When Renewal Isn’t an Option

There are a few situations where you can’t renew your license—at least not right away:

• If your license has been suspended, canceled, or revoked , you must resolve that issue and have your license reinstated before renewing—whether the issue occurred in Arkansas or another state.
• If your license is lost or too damaged to read, and it’s more than one year from expiration, you’ll need to request a replacement instead of a renewal.

When to Renew Your Arkansas License

You can renew your Arkansas license up to 12 months before its expiration date. Because AR licenses are valid for four years, most residents will only need to renew once every few years. Just keep in mind: you can’t renew within the first three years of getting your current license.

Where to Renew Your License

All Arkansas license renewals must be completed either in person or by mail—online renewals are not available. You can visit nearly any DFA Revenue Office to complete the process. If you’re temporarily out of state due to school, military service, or another approved reason, you can request a mail-in renewal instead (details below).

In-Person License Renewal

To renew your license in person, head to a nearby DFA office. Since application forms are not available online, you’ll need to complete your paperwork on site. DFA office hours can vary by location, but most operate from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Arkansas DFA locations do not currently allow online appointment scheduling, so plan to arrive early—especially during peak times.

Renewing by Mail (Out-of-State Residents)

If you’re out of Arkansas when your license is due, you may be able to renew by mail. To start, call the DFA at (501) 682-7059 and request the renewal application packet. After receiving and completing the form, mail it to:

If needed, you can also call that number again for follow-up instructions or support.

REAL ID Renewal in Arkansas

When it’s time to renew your license, you have the option to upgrade to a REAL ID—an enhanced credential that meets federal security standards. As of May 2025, only REAL IDs (or valid passports) can be used to board domestic flights or enter certain government facilities. To receive a REAL ID driver’s license in Arkansas, you’ll need to provide documentation verifying:

• Your legal identity (e.g., birth certificate or passport )
• Your Social Security Number (e.g., Social Security card or W-2)
• Arkansas residency (two documents showing your name and current address, such as utility bills or bank statements)

If you don’t have the necessary documents for REAL ID, you can still renew your license, but it will include a “Not for Federal Identification” label. REAL IDs are marked with a star in the top right corner.

Not yet up for renewal? You can still request a REAL ID-compliant replacement card for a small fee.

Renewal Rules for Military Members & Out-of-State Drivers

Military personnel, students, and other Arkansas residents living temporarily out of state can complete their license renewal by mail. However, the state does not offer automatic extensions—so be sure to complete the renewal before your current license expires. To apply by mail, follow the instructions in the section above or contact the DFA for more help.

Arkansas License Renewal Fees

Your renewal cost depends on whether you’re upgrading to a REAL ID or not. Here’s what you can expect to pay:

• Standard license renewal with REAL ID: $5
• Upgrade to REAL ID from a regular ID: $5
• REAL ID-compliant replacement (outside renewal window): $10