If you’re a senior driver in Arkansas, renewing your driver’s license every four years is a must. While the process is simple, there are specific steps you’ll need to follow to ensure that everything goes smoothly.
This article will walk you through the essentials of renewing your driver’s license, including what documents you’ll need and the different ways you can complete the process.
What Documents You Need for Renewal
To renew your driver’s license in Arkansas, be prepared to bring the following documents:
- Current Arkansas Driver’s License: Your existing driver’s license will be required for the renewal process.
- Vision Test: If you wear corrective lenses, make sure to bring them for the vision test.
- Payment: A $40 fee for your renewal, which can be paid by cash, credit card, or check.
Additionally, if you need to make any changes or corrections to your name, date of birth, or gender, you will have to provide extra documentation. This includes proof of your citizenship, identity, social security number, and two documents of residency.
If you’re upgrading to an Enhanced Security (REAL) Driver’s License, you’ll also need to bring these additional documents.
Enhanced Driver’s License Renewal
An Enhanced Driver’s License (which is valid for 8 years) can also be renewed up to a year in advance of its expiration date. If there have been no changes to your name, gender, social security number, or date of birth, you won’t need to provide any original documents.
However, if there have been any changes, you will need to submit the appropriate documents at the time of renewal.
How to Renew Your Arkansas Driver’s License
In Arkansas, there are a few ways to renew your driver’s license, depending on your situation.
1. In-Person Renewal
The most common way to renew your driver’s license is by visiting your local DFA Revenue Office. Here’s how to do it:
- Gather the required documents mentioned earlier.
- Visit your local DFA Revenue Office.
- Take the vision exam (if needed).
- Pay the $40 renewal fee.
- Have your photo taken.
- Receive your new license.
This is the standard method for most residents.
2. Renewal By Mail
If you’re temporarily living out of state for work, school, or military service, you can renew your license by mail. To do this:
- Contact the Arkansas Office of Driver Services by phone or email to verify your eligibility for mail-in renewal.
- If eligible, you’ll receive a packet with instructions on how to proceed.
- Complete the renewal and mail it back to the provided address.
Once processed, your new driver’s license will be sent to you by mail.
3. Military Driver’s License Renewal
If you’re in the military and your Arkansas driver’s license expires while you’re away on duty, you’ll be granted a 30-day extension after your tour ends or after your release date. There’s no need to return to Arkansas to complete the renewal process.
To coordinate your renewal or extend it by mail, contact the Arkansas Office of Driver Services for instructions.
Renewing your driver’s license in Arkansas is a straightforward process, but it’s important to gather the necessary documents and follow the correct procedure.
Whether you’re renewing in person, by mail, or as a member of the military, make sure to complete all steps to avoid delays. Take the time to review these instructions to ensure a smooth renewal process.
