Arkansas Driving Laws for Seniors and Older Drivers

The myriad rules and regulations enforced by the Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration's Office of Driver Services (ODS) apply to drivers of all ages and stages. Unlike most states, Arkansas imposes no special requirements and restrictions on older drivers.

Arkansas License Renewal Rules for Older Drivers

Time limits: All drivers are required to renew every four years at any local Revenue Office.

Vision test: Required at in-person renewal. ODS personnel will conduct a test free.

Written test: Required at renewal only if licensing authorities believe a physical or mental condition or limitation may affect the ability to drive safely.

Road test: Required at renewal only if licensing authorities believe a physical or mental condition or limitation may affect the ability to drive safely.

Possible License Restrictions

The ODS can place restrictions or conditions on a person's driver's license after administering a driving test and discussing possible restrictions with him or her. The most common restriction for older drivers is to require glasses or corrective contact lenses.

In Arkansas, other common requirements the ODS may impose on drivers include:

• no freeway driving
• an additional right side mirror on a vehicle
• no nighttime driving
• time of day restrictions—for example, no driving during rush hour traffic
• supports to ensure a proper driving position
• geographic area restrictions, and
• wearing bioptic telescopic lens when driving.

How to Request an Unsafe Driver Investigation in Arkansas

Reports of unsafe driving are handled slightly differently throughout the state. For information on how to request an investigation, contact:

Arkansas Driver Services

Ragland Building

1910 SW 7^th Street, Room 1070

Little Rock, AR 72201

501-371-5581

How to Get a License Reinstated

For information on how to get back a license that has been suspended or revoked in Arkansas, contact one of the Revenue Offices located throughout the state.

How to Get Parking Placards or License Plates for a Disabled Driver

Disabled person parking placards and license plates can be issued to drivers who have impaired mobility if a licensed medical professional verifies the condition.

The placards and plates are also available for those who:

• cannot walk 100 feet without stopping to rest
• cannot walk without the use of or assistance from, a brace, cane, crutch, another person, prosthetic device, wheelchair, or other assistive device
• have severe lung disease
• use portable oxygen
• have a severe cardiac condition
• have a spinal cord injury
• have a genetic ambulatory disorder
• have had a limb amputated
• have spina bifida
• have multiple sclerosis
• have chronic heart disease, or
• have some other permanent medical condition that substantially impacts their mobility.

Steps required to obtain a disabled placard or plate are:

• Complete and sign a Licensed Physician's or Organization's Certification for Issuance of a Special License Plate or Certificate for a Person With a Disability.
• Have a licensed physician complete the medical information on Part 1 of the form.
• Mail the original application to the local Revenue Office.

Learn More About Arkansas Driving Rules for Seniors

The ODS website contains basic information for Arkansas drivers, including links to the controlling laws.

Of special interest is the "Arkansas Driver License Study Guide," focused on helping drivers prepare for the written driver's license exams; licensing authorities urge drivers to review the information periodically.

Where to Find a Lawyer for Help

You can use Nolo's Lawyer Directory to find a local lawyer experienced in representing older people who need help with auto accidents or traffic tickets in Arkansas.