How to Get Your Driver's License in Arkansas

Last verified: 2026-03

Here is how to get your driver's license in Arkansas. Arkansas uses a Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) system with 3 stages. You can get a full unrestricted license at age 18.

GDL Stages in Arkansas

1

Learner's Permit

Age 14+ 6 months minimum

Requirements

  • Pass written knowledge test
  • Pass vision screening
  • Parental consent if under 18

Restrictions

  • Must be accompanied by a licensed driver age 21 or older
2

Intermediate License

Age 16+ 24 months minimum

Requirements

  • Hold learner's permit for required period
  • Pass road skills test

Restrictions

  • No driving between 11 p.m. and 4 a.m.
  • No more than 1 non-family passenger under 21
3

Full Unrestricted License

Age 18+

Requirements

  • Turn 18
  • Hold intermediate license with acceptable record

Restricted License Rules

  • Intermediate drivers may not drive between 11 p.m. and 4 a.m. unless going to or from work, school, or a church event.
  • Only 1 non-family passenger under 21 is permitted at any time during the intermediate phase.

How restrictions lift: All restrictions lift automatically when the driver turns 18.

Road Test Overview

What Is Tested

  • Vehicle control
  • Turning and lane changes
  • Parking
  • Obeying traffic signals and signs
  • Speed management
  • Yielding right of way

Adult Licensing Pathway

If you are 18 or older, you do not need to complete the full GDL process. At 18, all GDL restrictions are automatically removed. Adults who never held a license can test directly for a full license.

Arkansas-Specific Information

Arkansas allows learner's permits starting at age 14, one of the youngest permit ages in the country. However, the intermediate phase lasts until age 18, giving Arkansas one of the longer restricted periods for young drivers.

Frequently Asked Questions

You must be at least 18 years old to get an unrestricted full driver's license in Arkansas.

Arkansas uses a 3-stage Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) system: Learner's Permit, Intermediate License, Full Unrestricted License.

  • Intermediate drivers may not drive between 11 p.m. and 4 a.m. unless going to or from work, school, or a church event.
  • Only 1 non-family passenger under 21 is permitted at any time during the intermediate phase.

Adults age 18 and older in Arkansas can apply for a license directly without going through the GDL stages. At 18, all GDL restrictions are automatically removed. Adults who never held a license can test directly for a full license.

Need your permit first?

Start with the learner's permit before your full license.

Arkansas learner's permit guide

Check drivers ed requirements

Find out if drivers ed is required in Arkansas.

Arkansas drivers ed requirements

Prefer to learn online?

Complete a state-approved driving course from home on your own schedule. Same certifications, same insurance discounts.

View Online Courses

This information is based on Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration guidelines. Requirements can change. Visit the official Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration website for the most current information.