Renewal Cycle and Options for Seniors
- In Arkansas, driver’s licenses are generally valid for eight years. However, drivers aged 70 and older have the option to renew for just four years instead of eight, and they pay a reduced fee for the shorter renewal period.
- All Arkansas drivers, including seniors, must renew their licenses in person at a local Revenue Office. Online or mail renewal is not permitted for seniors, except for those temporarily out of state or overseas, who may be eligible for mail renewal after contacting the Office of Driver Services.
Vision and Testing Requirements
- Every driver, regardless of age, must pass a vision test at each renewal. There is no requirement for a written or driving skills test based solely on age. However, if the licensing authorities have reason to believe a driver has a physical or mental condition that could affect safe driving, a road test may be required.
- The most common restriction placed on older drivers is the requirement to wear corrective lenses while driving, if necessary.
Required Documents and Fees
- Seniors renewing their licenses must bring:
- Their current Arkansas driver’s license.
- Proof of legal presence (such as a U.S. passport or birth certificate).
- Proof of Social Security number (e.g., Social Security card, W-2, or 1099).
- Payment for the renewal fee ($40 for eight years; reduced for four-year renewals for those 70+).
- If you need to update personal information (name, date of birth, etc.), additional documentation is required.
Renewal Process
- Visit your local DFA Revenue Office.
- Surrender your current license and present required documents.
- Take and pass the vision test.
- Pay the applicable renewal fee.
- Have your photo taken and receive your new license before leaving the office.
Special Considerations
- There are no special age-based restrictions or additional testing requirements for older drivers in Arkansas, unlike many other states.
- The Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration may place restrictions on a license for medical reasons, based on self-reporting or medical review.
- Seniors account for a significant portion of traffic fatalities in Arkansas, so the state encourages regular vision checks and reporting of any medical conditions that may affect driving.
Summary Table
| Age Group | Renewal Period | Vision Test Required | Online/Mail Renewal | Fee |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Under 70 | 8 years | Yes, every renewal | No | $40 |
| 70 and older | 4 or 8 years | Yes, every renewal | No (except out-of-state/overseas) | Reduced for 4-year option |
Seniors in Arkansas renew their licenses in person every four or eight years (their choice at age 70+), must pass a vision test, and do not face additional age-based testing or restrictions. Always bring the required documents and be prepared to update any personal information as needed.
Sources
- https://www.iihs.org/topics/older-drivers/license-renewal-laws-table
- https://www.copilotsearch.com/posts/arkansas-drivers-license-renewal-what-to-know/
- https://helloskip.com/blog/ultimate-guide-to-renewing-your-arkansas-driver-license
- https://www.nolo.com/legal-encyclopedia/arkansas-driving-laws-seniors-older-drivers.html
- https://zutobi.com/us/ar-car/driver-guides/arkansas-drivers-license-renewal
