Permit vs. Driver’s License in Arkansas

1. What is the difference between a driver’s license and a permit in Arkansas?


A driver’s license is a document issued by the Department of Finance and Administration (DFA) that authorizes an individual to operate a motor vehicle in the state of Arkansas. A permit is a document issued by the DFA that allows an individual to practice driving, but not operate a motor vehicle without the supervision of a licensed driver. A permit is valid until the holder reaches the age of 18, when they can apply for a driver’s license.

2. How old must a person be to obtain a driver’s license or permit in Arkansas?


In Arkansas, a person must be at least 16 years old to obtain a driver’s license or permit.

3. What documents are required to obtain a driver’s license or permit in Arkansas?


In order to obtain a driver’s license or permit in Arkansas, you must provide two primary documents: 1) proof of identity (e.g. birth certificate, U.S. passport, etc.), and 2) proof of Arkansas residency (e.g. utility bill, voter registration card, etc.). You must also show a Social Security card or proof of ineligibility for a Social Security number. Additionally, you must pass a vision test and written knowledge test in order to obtain a driver’s license or permit.

4. Is a permit required to drive in Arkansas?


Yes, a permit is required to drive in Arkansas. All drivers must have a valid driver’s license and complete a driver’s education course in order to receive a permit.

5. How long is a driver’s license valid for in Arkansas?


A driver’s license in Arkansas is valid for up to 8 years.

6. How long does it take to get a driver’s license or permit in Arkansas?


In Arkansas, it typically takes 15-20 days to get a driver’s license or permit after submitting all required documents. However, the exact amount of time it will take to process your application will depend on the volume of applications that the Arkansas Office of Motor Vehicle is processing.

7. What tests must be passed to obtain a driver’s license or permit in Arkansas?


In order to obtain a driver’s license or permit in Arkansas, applicants must pass a written test, driving skills test, and vision test. They must also provide proof of identity and proof of residency. In addition, applicants that are under the age of 18 must also show that they have completed the state’s driver education program.

8. What restrictions are placed on holders of a driver’s license or permit in Arkansas?


Holders of a driver’s license or permit in Arkansas are subject to the following restrictions:

• They must follow all traffic and safety laws.
• Drivers under 18 years of age are not allowed to use a cell phone while driving.
• Drivers must always wear a seat belt when operating a vehicle.
• Drivers under 18 years of age are not allowed to drive between the hours of 11 pm and 5 am, unless accompanied by a parent or guardian.
• All drivers are prohibited from driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
• All drivers must have valid insurance and registration.

9. What are the fees associated with obtaining a driver’s license or permit in Arkansas?


The fees associated with obtaining a driver’s license or permit in Arkansas are as follows:

Driver’s License:
– Age 18-21: $40
– Age 22-69: $50
– Age 70 and over: No fee

Learner’s Permit:
– Age 14-15: $10
– Age 16 and over: $40

10. Are there any additional requirements to obtain a driver’s license or permit in Arkansas for certain age groups?


Yes, Arkansas has additional requirements for anyone under the age of 18 who wishes to apply for a driver’s license or permit. These applicants must have held an instructional permit for at least six months, and must have completed a driver’s education program approved by the Arkansas State Police. Additional requirements for those under the age of 18 include passing a written test and a road skills test, completing at least 50 hours of supervised driving, and having a parent or guardian sign an Consent & Release of Liability form.

11. Is there an age limit for obtaining a driver’s license or permit in Arkansas?


Yes, the minimum age to obtain a driver’s license or permit in Arkansas is 14.

12. Are any special privileges given to holders of a driver’s license or permit in Arkansas?


Yes, depending on age, holders of a driver’s license or permit in Arkansas may receive certain privileges, such as being able to drive without a supervising adult after a certain age, being able to drive outside of the state with certain permission and restrictions, and being able to apply for a license at an earlier age.

13. What is the process for renewing a driver’s license or permit in Arkansas?


The renewal process for a driver’s license or permit in Arkansas can be completed either online, in person, or by mail.

Online:
To renew your license or permit online, you will need a valid credit or debit card, your driver’s license number (or Social Security number if you don’t have your driver’s license number), and the last 5 digits of your Social Security number. You will also need to answer some questions about yourself and your driving history.

In Person:
To renew your license or permit in person, you will need to visit an Arkansas Revenue Office and present valid identification documents and proof of residency. You will also need to take an eye exam as part of the renewal process.

By Mail:
To renew your license or permit by mail, you will need to fill out the renewal application found on the Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration website. Once the application is filled out, you must mail it to the address provided on the application along with payment for the renewal fee.

14. Are there any restrictions on who can operate a motor vehicle with a driver’s license or permit in Arkansas?


Yes, there are some restrictions. Operators of motor vehicles in Arkansas must be at least 16 years old and must have a valid driver’s license or permit to operate a motor vehicle. Any driver under the age of 18 must have a valid learner’s permit or license for at least 6 months before being eligible to apply for a standard license. In addition, all drivers must be able to read and understand traffic signs and signals in English. For drivers 18 or older, a valid license is required to operate a vehicle with a trailer or motorhome attached, while those under 18 may only operate such vehicles if they have an appropriate endorsement on their license.

15. Are there any additional tests that must be taken to renew a driver’s license or permit in Arkansas?


Yes, Arkansas requires residents to take a vision test when renewing a driver’s license or permit. Additionally, a written test and/or a road test may be required at the discretion of the Arkansas State Police.

16. What are the penalties for driving without a valid driver’s license or permit in Arkansas?


The penalties for driving without a valid driver’s license or permit in Arkansas vary depending on the circumstances. Generally, it is a misdemeanor offense and carries a fine of up to $500, imprisonment for up to 30 days, or both, for a first offense. Subsequent offenses can lead to more severe penalties, including fines up to $2,500 and/or imprisonment for up to one year. Additionally, the court may suspend a person’s license for up to six months, or revoke the license if the person has one.

17. Is there an age requirement for obtaining an instruction permit in Arkansas ?


Yes, the minimum age for obtaining an instruction permit in Arkansas is 14 years old.

18. Are there any special considerations given to holders of an instruction permit in Arkansas ?


Yes, in Arkansas, holders of an instruction permit are restricted from carrying any passengers and must be supervised by a licensed driver who is 21 years or older. Instruction permit holders are also prohibited from driving between midnight and 4:00 A.M. unless accompanied by a licensed driver who is 21 years old or older.

19. Can holders of an instruction permit drive outside of their home state with their instruction permit in Arkansas ?


No, holders of an instruction permit in Arkansas are not permitted to drive outside of their home state.

20. Are there any restrictions on drivers younger than 18 operating vehicles with an instruction permit in Arkansas ?


Yes. Drivers younger than 18 operating vehicles with instruction permits in Arkansas are prohibited from having any passengers (other than the driver’s parent or legal guardian, driving instructor, or a licensed adult over 21) in the vehicle unless they are accompanied by a licensed adult over the age of 21.