Renewal Frequency and Options
- All Arkansas drivers, regardless of age, must renew their licenses every four years.
- Drivers aged 70 and older may choose to renew for just four years (instead of the standard eight) and pay a reduced fee.
- There are no special renewal requirements or restrictions that apply solely because of age.
Vision and Other Testing
- A vision test is required at every in-person renewal, for all ages.
- A written or road test is only required if the licensing authorities have concerns about a physical or mental condition that could affect driving safety.
Renewal Methods
- Seniors must renew their licenses in person at a local DFA Revenue Office.
- Online renewal is not available for Arkansas driver’s licenses as of 2025.
- Renewal by mail is only permitted for residents temporarily out of state (for work, school, or military service).
Required Documents and Fees
- Bring your current driver’s license and corrective lenses if needed for the vision test.
- The renewal fee is $40 for a standard license.
- Additional documents are only needed if you are updating personal information (name, gender, etc.) or upgrading to an Enhanced Security (REAL ID) license.
Additional Notes
- The Office of Driver Services (ODS) may place restrictions (such as requiring corrective lenses) based on the vision test or other assessments.
- Reports of unsafe driving can be submitted to the ODS, which may trigger further evaluation or impose restrictions.
Table
| Requirement | Seniors (70+) | All Other Drivers |
|---|---|---|
| Renewal period | 4 years (option for 8 years) | 4 years |
| Vision test | Every renewal (in person) | Every renewal (in person) |
| Written/Road test | Only if medically indicated | Only if medically indicated |
| Online renewal | Not available | Not available |
| Renewal by mail | Only if out-of-state/military | Only if out-of-state/military |
| Fee | $40 (standard 4-year license) | $40 (standard 4-year license) |
Key Takeaways:
- Arkansas does not impose additional renewal requirements solely based on age.
- Seniors must renew in person every four years and take a vision test.
- Written or road tests are only required if there are safety concerns.
- Online renewal is not available; mail renewal is limited to special circumstances
Sources
[1] https://www.dfa.arkansas.gov/office/driver-services/licenses-ids-permits/
[2] https://lifelanes.progressive.com/senior-driving-laws-by-state/
[3] https://www.nolo.com/legal-encyclopedia/arkansas-driving-laws-seniors-older-drivers.html
[4] https://www.iihs.org/topics/older-drivers/license-renewal-laws-table
[5] https://zutobi.com/us/ar-car/driver-guides/arkansas-drivers-license-renewal
