How to Change Your Address at the DMV in Arkansas

Moving within Arkansas means you’ll need to update your address with the state agency that handles driver’s licenses and vehicle records. Doing this correctly helps keep your license and registration valid and ensures you don’t miss important mail.

This guide walks through how the Arkansas DMV change of address process works, what you’ll need, and how to handle common issues.

Arkansas State Verification: Who Handles What?

In Arkansas, DMV-type services are split between two main agencies:

  • Driver’s licenses and ID cards are handled by the Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration (DFA), Office of Driver Services (ODS).
  • Vehicle registration and titles are handled by the DFA, Office of Motor Vehicle (OMV).

In Arkansas, this is typically handled at the same local DFA Revenue Office, but driver’s license records and vehicle records are maintained in separate systems. That means:

  • You may need to update your address separately for:
    • Your driver’s license/ID (ODS), and
    • Your vehicle registration/title (OMV).

Depending on your county in Arkansas, your local DFA office may offer slightly different services or hours, so it’s smart to check ahead to confirm whether both types of address changes can be handled in one visit.

To find official information safely, you can:

  • Go to the main Arkansas DFA website at https://www.ark.org/ and navigate to “Driver Services” or “Motor Vehicle,” or
  • Search online for “Arkansas DFA driver services change of address” or “Arkansas DFA motor vehicle offices” and verify the site is an official .gov or .org state page.

Why Updating Your Address in Arkansas Matters

Many drivers in Arkansas find that they only think about their address with the DMV when they renew their license or tags. But updating your information sooner helps you avoid problems such as:

  • Driver’s license issues

    • Law enforcement and court notices are usually sent to the address on file.
    • Some Arkansas courts and agencies rely on your DFA address for official correspondence.

  • Vehicle registration and title

    • Your registration renewal notice, plate-related mail, and any recall notifications connected through registration may go to your old address.
    • The title record will show your legal address for the vehicle, which can matter when you sell, transfer, or insure a car in Arkansas.

  • Official notices and compliance

    • In Arkansas, this is typically handled by mailing notices to the address in your driver and vehicle records.
    • If you miss a notice about a suspension, insurance issue, or emissions/safety-related matter (where applicable), you might not find out until you’re facing a fine or enforcement action.

  • Elections, jury duty, and local services

    • Some Arkansas counties use DMV-related records as one of several sources when updating voter or jury rolls. Your DMV address isn’t the only factor, but keeping it current can help reduce confusion.

Updating your address with the Arkansas DMV-equivalent agencies won’t automatically change your address with every other state or local office, but it’s an important part of your overall move checklist.

What You’ll Need for an Arkansas DMV Change of Address

Requirements can vary slightly by situation, but in Arkansas you’ll usually need a mix of the following for an address change:

Basic Information

Have ready:

  • Full legal name
  • Date of birth
  • Arkansas driver’s license or ID card number
  • Social Security Number (full or last 4 digits), as requested
  • Old address currently on file
  • New Arkansas residential address
  • Mailing address (if different from where you live)

Many drivers in Arkansas find that having their actual license in hand makes the process easier, even when the system only asks for the number.

Proof of Identity

You may be asked to present or confirm:

  • Current Arkansas driver’s license or state ID
  • For some in-person changes, additional ID may be requested if there’s any mismatch or if you’re changing other details at the same time.

Proof of New Address

For in-person (and sometimes mail) updates, Arkansas offices commonly accept documents such as:

  • Utility bill (electric, water, gas, internet) with your name and new address
  • Lease agreement or mortgage document
  • Bank or credit card statement
  • Pay stub or employer letter showing your Arkansas address
  • Official mail from a government agency addressed to you at the new location

Depending on your county in Arkansas and the specific office you visit, staff may have slightly different preferences for acceptable documents. It’s wise to bring two different proofs if possible.

Vehicle Information (for Registration/Title)

To update your vehicle records, be ready with:

  • Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
  • License plate number
  • Basic vehicle details (year, make, model)
  • Current Arkansas registration or title information (if you have the documents)

Why Address Change Requests Get Rejected

Address changes in Arkansas may be delayed or rejected when:

  • Information doesn’t match existing records (misspelled name, different date of birth, incomplete SSN).
  • Proof of address is missing, outdated, or not acceptable (e.g., a handwritten note instead of an official bill).
  • You try to use a non-residential address where a physical address is required (for example, some P.O. box–only requests).
  • You’re actually moving out of Arkansas, and the update should be done in another state’s system instead.
  • You combined too many changes at once (e.g., name change, address change, and Real ID upgrade) without the correct set of documents.

In Arkansas, this is typically handled by asking you to come back with additional documentation or directing you to a different office if your situation is more complex (for example, recent name change after marriage or court order).

Step-by-Step Options to Change Your Address in Arkansas

The exact process for a DMV change of address Arkansas can differ based on whether you are updating:

  • Your driver’s license/ID,
  • Your vehicle registration/title, or
  • Both.

Not all options (online, mail, in-person) are available for every type of change or for every person. Always double-check current rules on the official Arkansas DFA site before you begin.

1. Online Address Change (If Available)

Arkansas has expanded online services over time. Often, you can handle at least part of your Arkansas DMV change of address online.

In Arkansas, this is typically handled through the state’s official online services portal, where you may find:

  • A driver’s license address update service; and/or
  • A vehicle registration renewal system that lets you confirm or update your mailing address as part of the process.

General online steps (when available):

  1. Go to the official Arkansas DFA online services site.

    • To find it safely, search for “Arkansas DFA online services” or go through https://www.ark.org/ and follow links to “Online Services.”

  2. Select the correct service.

    • Look specifically for options mentioning “change of address,” “update driver’s license address,” or similar wording for licenses.
    • For vehicles, you may see address updates during renewal or through a separate “update registration address” function.

  3. Log in or verify your identity.

    • Enter your driver’s license number, date of birth, and possibly SSN or a portion of it.
    • For vehicle records, you may need your plate number or VIN.

  4. Enter your new Arkansas address.

    • Provide your physical residence and, if allowed, a separate mailing address (for example, a P.O. box).

  5. Review and submit.

    • Double-check spelling, house number, apartment number, and ZIP code.
    • Confirm and submit your request.

  6. Save your confirmation.

    • Print or save a screenshot of any confirmation page or email.

Online systems sometimes update your electronic record right away, but they may not automatically mail you a new physical license or registration unless that’s specifically part of the transaction (like a renewal). Check the wording carefully.

2. In-Person Address Change at a DFA Revenue Office

For many situations, especially if you’re also updating your photo, name, or license class, in-person is the most reliable route in Arkansas.

In Arkansas, this is typically handled at a DFA Revenue Office that offers Driver Services and/or Motor Vehicle services.

General in-person steps:

  1. Find a nearby DFA office.

    • Search for “Arkansas DFA Revenue Office locations” and confirm services (Driver Services and/or Motor Vehicle) offered at that site.

  2. Gather your documents.

    • Current Arkansas driver’s license or ID
    • Proof of new Arkansas address (bring 1–2 documents)
    • Vehicle documents if you also want to update your registration/title:
      • Current registration card
      • License plate number or VIN

  3. Visit during open hours.

    • Many offices in Arkansas have standard weekday hours, but schedules can vary in more rural counties. Some are busier at lunch and near the end of the month.

  4. Request a change of address for your driver’s license/ID.

    • Tell the clerk you need to update your address.
    • Provide your license and proof of the new address.
    • Be prepared to answer security questions or sign a form acknowledging the change.

  5. Ask to update your vehicle registration address as well.

    • Since driver and vehicle records are managed by separate offices internally, ask clearly if you need to complete a separate request for your car, truck, or motorcycle.
    • Provide your registration or plate number and your new address.

  6. Confirm what will change and when.

    • Ask:
      • Will you receive a new license/ID card or a sticker for the back?
      • Will you get a new registration card, or will the change just be stored electronically?
      • How will you know the system shows your new address?

In many Arkansas counties, staff at smaller offices are accustomed to local address quirks such as rural routes and 911 address changes, so they can often help you enter the address in a format the state system will accept.

3. Address Change by Mail (If Allowed)

Arkansas policies on address changes by mail can vary, and they may change over time. Some forms or processes may allow you to mail in an Arkansas DMV change of address form, especially if you’re unable to appear in person (for example, active-duty military or out-of-state students).

Because specific forms and mailing addresses can change, it’s important not to guess. Instead:

  • Search for an official page that refers to “Arkansas DFA change of address by mail” or a specific address change form.
  • Confirm that:
    • The form lists a state office mailing address; and
    • It is clearly described as the correct form for license and/or vehicle address changes.

If a mail option is available, expect to:

  1. Complete the official Arkansas DMV change of address form (if required), using your legal name, license/ID number, and old/new addresses.
  2. Include photocopies of any requested identification or proof of address documents.
  3. Mail the packet to the exact address listed on the official form or webpage.
  4. Wait for processing and watch for a confirmation letter, updated card, or notation on your next renewal notice.

Many drivers in Arkansas find that in-person or online changes are faster and easier to verify, so mail is often used only when there is no practical alternative.

Do License and Registration Update Together?

In Arkansas, driver’s license and vehicle registration records are maintained separately within DFA:

  • Updating your driver’s license address does not always automatically update your vehicle registration address.
  • Updating your registration (for example, during tag renewal) does not always update the address on your driver’s license.

To avoid issues, treat them as two separate updates and:

  • Explicitly ask at the DFA office:
    • “Is my car registration address now updated too?”
  • Or, if you’re using online services, look for:
    • One process that clearly updates license/ID, and
    • Another that clearly updates vehicle registration.

What Happens After You Submit Your Address Change

Once you’ve completed your DMV change of address Arkansas process, here’s what typically happens.

For Driver’s License / State ID

After your driver’s license address is updated:

  • The electronic record in the Arkansas ODS system shows your new address.
  • Depending on your transaction:
    • You may receive a new license or ID card with the updated address, or
    • You may receive a sticker or notation to place on the back of your existing card (if that is how the system is currently set up).

Timelines can vary based on print and mail processes, especially in more rural parts of Arkansas, so avoid assuming a specific number of days unless the office tells you.

For Vehicle Registration and Title

After your vehicle address is updated:

  • The registration record in the OMV system should reflect your new address.
  • You may:
    • Receive a new registration card showing the updated address, or
    • See the new address listed on your next renewal notice or online renewal screen.

In Arkansas, this is typically handled by applying the address change to both registration and future title documents, but the title itself may not be reprinted unless you request a duplicate or there’s another title-related transaction.

How to Verify That the Change Worked

To confirm your changes:

  • Check your mail to see whether any confirmation, new card, or registration arrived.
  • Use online services (if available) to:
    • View your information during a renewal; or
    • Start a transaction and confirm that your new address appears on file.
  • Call or visit a DFA office and ask a clerk to confirm that your record shows your current address (have your ID and plate number ready).

Special Situations for Arkansas Address Changes

Certain groups in Arkansas face extra steps or slightly different rules when updating their address.

Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Holders

For CDL holders:

  • In Arkansas, this is typically handled with stricter identity verification and sometimes additional federal compliance checks.
  • You may be required to:
    • Appear in person for an address change;
    • Present extra documentation (e.g., DOT medical card, proof of citizenship or lawful presence if required for your CDL type).

Because CDL requirements intersect with federal regulations, CDL drivers should confirm current rules on the official DFA CDL/Driver Services pages before changing their address.

Active-Duty Military and Families

If you are active-duty military stationed in Arkansas (or an Arkansas resident stationed elsewhere):

  • Arkansas may allow special handling for renewals and address updates, including possibilities like:
    • Extended validity for licenses;
    • Mail-based or remote update options for some situations.
  • It is especially important to keep the address current where you actually receive mail, so you don’t miss renewal or suspension notices.

Search the official Arkansas DFA site for information specific to military driver’s licenses or military service members to see what options apply.

College Students

Students who move to or within Arkansas for college often wonder which address to use:

  • If you’re an Arkansas resident attending school in another county, you can generally use:
    • Your permanent home address, or
    • Your school residence address, as long as it’s an accurate physical address.
  • If you’re from another state and attending college in Arkansas, your obligations may differ depending on how long you’re staying and whether you’ve established Arkansas residency.

Many students in Arkansas find it simplest to use the address where they actually handle important mail and can reliably receive renewal notices.

New Residents Moving to Arkansas (From Another State)

If you move to Arkansas from another state:

  • You’ll typically need to:
    • Apply for an Arkansas driver’s license; and
    • Register and title your vehicle in Arkansas within the time frames set by state law.
  • This is more than just updating an address; it’s a full transfer of license and registration into Arkansas.

In this case, you don’t do an Arkansas DMV change of address on an out-of-state license. Instead, you start fresh with Arkansas credentials. Search for “Arkansas new resident driver license requirements” on the official DFA site.

P.O. Boxes and Rural Routes

In many parts of Arkansas, mail is delivered to:

  • P.O. boxes,
  • Rural routes, or
  • Addresses that have recently been converted to 911 emergency addresses.

For DMV records, Arkansas may require:

  • A physical residential address (where you actually live), AND
  • A mailing address (which can be a P.O. box).

When speaking to DFA staff, be clear about:

  • Your physical location (for residence records)
  • Your mailing address (where letters should be sent)

In Arkansas, this is typically handled by recording both in the system if allowed, especially for residents of small towns and rural counties.

Changing Name and Address at the Same Time

If you need to change both your name and address (for example, after marriage or divorce):

  • Expect to handle this in person, because:
    • You’ll likely need to present certified legal documents (marriage certificate, divorce decree, court order).
    • Staff must verify identity and link your new name to your old record.

Plan to bring:

  • Your current Arkansas license/ID
  • Legal proof of name change
  • Proof of new Arkansas address
  • Any additional documents listed on the DFA site for name changes or Real ID updates

Because name changes and address changes touch multiple parts of your record, they are more likely to be rejected if any one document is missing or inconsistent.

Troubleshooting: When Your Arkansas Address Change Doesn’t Go Through

Even when you follow the steps carefully, address changes can sometimes run into problems. Here’s how to handle common issues.

1. Online Address Change Rejection

If an online Arkansas DMV change of address fails:

  • Check your entries carefully:

    • License or ID number
    • Date of birth
    • SSN (if requested)
    • Spelling of your name

  • Try standardized address formatting:

    • Use standard abbreviations like “ST” for Street, “RD” for Road, “APT” for Apartment.
    • Make sure the ZIP code and city match USPS records—Arkansas systems often rely on USPS validation.

  • If the system still rejects the update:

    • Look for an error message explaining why (for example, “address not in service area” or “information does not match records”).
    • Take a screenshot of the error and call or visit a DFA office with that information.

Many drivers in Arkansas find that a quick in-person visit resolves issues that the online system couldn’t process, especially in areas with unique rural addressing.

2. You Submitted a Change but It’s Not Showing

If you’ve already submitted a change (online, by mail, or in person) and:

  • Your license still shows your old address, or
  • Your next notice/letter went to the old address,

then:

  1. Verify processing time.

    • Check any receipt or confirmation for wording about when the change would take effect.

  2. Contact DFA directly.

    • Ask a clerk to confirm the address on file for:
      • Your driver’s license/ID, and
      • Your vehicle registration (ask about both specifically).

  3. Be ready to re-submit documentation.

    • If your documents were incomplete, DFA might not have processed the change and may require you to come in again with full proofs.

3. Your Request Was Rejected

If you’re told that your address change request was rejected:

  • Ask why, in specific terms:

    • Was it due to missing documentation?
    • A mismatch with existing records?
    • An issue with using a P.O. box only?

  • Correct the underlying issue:

    • Bring additional or clearer proof of address.
    • Update your name or other information if needed so that everything matches.

In Arkansas, this is typically handled by giving you a list of required documents and asking you to return with those items. Keeping that list and checking each item carefully prevents repeat trips.

4. License Updated, Registration Didn’t (or Vice Versa)

Because driver and vehicle systems are separate:

  • It’s entirely possible that:
    • Your license reflects your new address, but
    • Your registration still lists the old one, or
    • The reverse.

To fix this:

  1. Ask DFA directly about each record.

    • “Can you confirm my address on my driver’s license record?”
    • “Can you confirm my address on my vehicle registration record?”

  2. Request an update for the record that’s still outdated.

    • If needed, present proof of address again.

  3. Keep any updated registration cards or license receipts together so you know which address is current.

5. You Moved Out of Arkansas

If you have moved out of Arkansas:

  • You generally do not update your address with Arkansas DFA for long-term residency in another state.
  • Instead, you:
    • Obtain a new driver’s license in your new state; and
    • Register and title your vehicle in your new state according to their rules.

If your old Arkansas license is still valid and you are in the transition period:

  • Some people notify Arkansas DFA or surrender the Arkansas license when they get their new one, depending on the receiving state’s process.
  • Check your new state’s requirements and ask if they will handle notifying Arkansas, or if you must contact Arkansas separately.

Keeping your address current with Arkansas’s driver and vehicle agencies helps you avoid missed notices, potential fines, and confusion when you renew or interact with law enforcement or other state services.

Your best next steps are:

  1. Decide which records you need to update (license/ID, registration/title, or both).
  2. Gather your documents: ID, proof of address, and vehicle information.
  3. Use the official Arkansas DFA online services or visit a DFA Revenue Office to complete your Arkansas DMV change of address.

Taking care of it soon after you move in AR means smoother renewals and fewer surprises down the road.