Steps for Obtaining Your Arkansas Drivers License

Obtain you AR drivers License

ATTENTION: This information is provided as a courtesy from the Center for Global Learning and Engagement to international students at the University of Central Arkansas. If you are a domestic or American student, please refer to the Arkansas Department of Motor Vehicle for any assistance.

1. Study the Arkansas Driver’s Manual

Study the Arkansas Driver’s Manual. This explains all the traffic laws and regulations of the state of Arkansas. You can pick this up at the Arkansas State Police 1 State Police Plaza Dr, Little Rock, AR 72209. It can also be downloaded here.

2. Written Driver’s Test

Study the manual and take the written portion of the drivers test. You can take several practice tests at:
https://dmv-permit-test.com/arkansas/practice-test-1.html.

The written test is offered at two locations:

McGee Center 3800 College Ave Conway, AR

Monday through Friday
Written Exam ONLY, 8-11:30am

Arkansas State Police Headquarters, Troop A**
1 State Police Plaza Drive
Little Rock, AR Phone
Contact number- (501) 618-8000

Monday through Friday
Written Exam ONLY, 1-4:30pm
(must appear by 4pm)

Bring your I-20, passport, and I-94 to the exam. If you do not pass the written test, you may take it again as many times as you would like. It is not unusual for people to fail the written test on the first attempt.

3. Learner’s Permit

If you pass the written test, you will be given a Learner’s Permit. This will allow you to drive with another licensed driver over the age of 21 in the vehicle with you. You do not have permission to drive alone yet. You will keep this permit for a minimum of 30 days.

4. Driving Test

You must wait a full thirty (30) calendar days (from the date of issue) before returning for the driving portion. You may return on the 31st day. The test will be given at the Arkansas State Police in Little Rock- 1 State Police Plaza Dr, Little Rock, AR 72209 . You can schedule an appointment online here. You will be asked to drive a short distance with an evaluator in the car with you.  Do not drive to the library by yourself. Before you pass the driving test, you are not allowed to drive alone. You must have a friend drive you there so that you will be able to drive his or her car for the test. The friend must show proof of ownership of the vehicle and proof of current automobile insurance and the car must be clean.

5. Arkansas Drivers License

When you pass the driving portion of the test, you will return to the Arkansas Revenue Department where you will receive your Arkansas driver’s license! Be sure to bring your passport, I-20 and I-94 when you go. You will then be legally allowed to drive anywhere in the US at any time. A drivers license does not give you authorization to work off-campus.
For more information, see the handout Auto Insurance and Vehicle Registration.