What you need to do right now
To replace a lost, stolen, or damaged Arkansas driver's license, you will visit your local Department of Finance and Administration (DFA) driver services office in person, bring proof of identity and residency, pay a replacement fee, and have your photo taken. The process takes about 30 minutes on the day you go, and you will receive a temporary paper license when ready. Your permanent card arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days.
You cannot replace your license by mail or online in Arkansas. You must appear in person at a driver services office. If your license was stolen, you should also report the theft to local police and bring the police report number with you, though it is not required to complete the replacement.
Key Takeaways
- You must visit a DFA driver services office in person with a valid ID and proof of your current address to replace your license.
- The replacement fee is $20 for a standard license and $25 for a REAL ID-compliant license, and you pay at the time of your visit.
- You will receive a temporary paper license to use when ready and your permanent card by mail within 7 to 10 business days.
- If your license was stolen, bring a police report number; if it was damaged, bring the damaged card itself.
Finding your nearest driver services office
The DFA operates driver services offices across Arkansas. You can find the office nearest you on the DFA website by entering your county or city. Offices are located in most county seats and some larger cities. Hours vary by location, but most are open Monday through Friday during standard business hours, with some offering limited Saturday hours.
Call ahead before you go. Many offices accept walk-ins, but some require you to schedule an appointment, especially during busy times. The DFA website lists phone numbers for each office. If you live far from any office, plan a trip that works with your schedule — there is no way to speed up the process by going to a specific location.
Documents to bring with you
Bring one valid form of photo identification. This can be your passport, military ID, state ID card, or an expired Arkansas driver's license. If you do not have any of these, you can bring two documents that prove your identity without a photo — such as a birth certificate and Social Security card, or a marriage certificate and bank statement.
You also need to prove your current address. Bring one document dated within the last 60 days that shows your name and address. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, bank statement, or government mail. A piece of mail from your employer or school with your address also works. If you have recently moved and do not yet have a document in your new name and address, bring your lease or mortgage agreement along with a utility bill in either your name or your spouse's name.
If your license was stolen, bring the police report number or a copy of the report itself. If your license was damaged, bring the damaged card. You do not need either to complete the replacement, but having them on file can help if there are questions later.
The replacement fee and payment
A standard Arkansas driver's license replacement costs $20. If you want a REAL ID-compliant license — which you will need to board a domestic flight or enter a federal building after May 7, 2025 — the cost is $25. You pay the fee in cash or card at the time of your visit. There are no discounts or waivers for replacement licenses.
If you are replacing a license that was damaged due to a manufacturing defect (for example, the card is cracking or the photo is fading), you may be able to request a replacement at no cost. Ask the staff member at the office whether your damage qualifies. Most wear and tear does not, but genuine defects sometimes do.
What happens during your visit
When you arrive, check in at the front desk and give the staff member your documents. They will verify your identity and address, check your driving record, and ask you to confirm your current information. If anything has changed — your name, address, or medical conditions — tell them now.
You will then have your photo taken for the new license. Wear something you are comfortable in; the photo rules are the same as for a new license. You cannot wear a hat, sunglasses, or heavy makeup that obscures your face. If you wear glasses for driving, you can wear them in the photo.
After your photo is taken, you will pay the replacement fee and receive a temporary paper license. This temporary license is valid for driving when ready and remains valid until your permanent card arrives. Keep it with you while you drive.
Your temporary and permanent licenses
The temporary paper license you receive on the day of your visit is a full, legal license. You can drive with it right away. It is valid for 45 days, which is longer than the typical 7 to 10 business days it takes for your permanent card to arrive, so you will have coverage even if there is a mail delay.
Your permanent license will arrive by mail at the address you provided. When it arrives, compare the information on the card to what you gave the office. If anything is wrong — a misspelled name, incorrect address, or wrong restrictions — contact the DFA office where you applied and ask them to correct it. Do not use a damaged or incorrect license; get it fixed before you drive with it.
Once your permanent license arrives, you can throw away the temporary paper license. You do not need to return it.
If your replacement does not arrive
If your permanent license does not arrive within 14 business days, contact the DFA office where you applied. Have your temporary license and the date you applied ready. The office can check the status of your card and reissue it if it was lost in the mail. There is no additional fee for a reissue.
If you need to drive before your replacement arrives and your temporary license is damaged or lost, return to the DFA office and request another temporary license. You will pay the replacement fee again.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I replace my license if I have an outstanding traffic ticket or unpaid fine?
No. The DFA will not issue a replacement license if you have an unpaid traffic fine or an active suspension on your record. You must resolve the fine or suspension first. Contact the court that issued the ticket or the DFA to find out what you owe and how to pay it.
What if I lost my license out of state?
You still must replace it in Arkansas through the DFA. You cannot replace an Arkansas license in another state. If you are traveling and need to drive, use your temporary paper license or contact the DFA office to see whether they can mail your replacement to an out-of-state address.
Do I need a REAL ID license, or can I keep a standard license?
A standard license is still valid for driving. You only need a REAL ID license if you plan to fly domestically or enter a federal building after May 7, 2025. If you are replacing your license now, you can choose either type. The REAL ID costs $5 more but lasts the same 8 years.
What if my name has changed since my last license?
Bring a document that proves your name change, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. The DFA will update your name on your new license at no extra cost. You still pay the standard $20 replacement fee.
Can someone else pick up my replacement license for me?
No. You must appear in person at the DFA office to explore for a replacement. However, once your permanent license arrives by mail, anyone can open your mail and give it to you.