Where the Texarkana DMV is located and what it handles
Texarkana sits on the border between Texas and Arkansas, and this matters for your DMV visit. If you live in Texarkana, Texas, you work with the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles. If you live in Texarkana, Arkansas, you work with the Arkansas Department of Motor Vehicles. The two states do not share a single office, so your first step is confirming which state your address falls in.
The Texas DMV office in Texarkana handles driver's licenses, vehicle registration, title transfers, and license plate renewals for the Texas side. The Arkansas DMV office handles the same services for the Arkansas side. Both offices are located within the city limits, but at different addresses. Knowing which state you need prevents a wasted trip.
Both offices require appointments for most services. Walk-ins are not may provide to be seen, and wait times can run several hours even with an appointment. Scheduling ahead online or by phone is the standard way to get a specific time slot.
Key Takeaways
- Texarkana has two separate DMV offices—one for Texas residents and one for Arkansas residents—located at different addresses in the city.
- Both offices require appointments for most services, and you can schedule online through your state's DMV website or by calling the office directly.
- Texas and Arkansas have different fees, document requirements, and renewal timelines, so confirm your state before visiting.
- Bring original documents or certified copies; both states reject photocopies for most transactions.
- If you are moving between states or changing your address, you must update your registration and license in your new state within a set timeframe.
Texas DMV office in Texarkana: address, hours, and services
The Texas DMV office in Texarkana is located at 3700 North State Line Avenue, Texarkana, TX 75501. Hours are typically Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., though hours may vary by season or staffing. Call ahead to confirm current hours before you go: (903) 793-2700.
This office issues Texas driver's licenses, renews licenses, handles address changes, processes vehicle registrations, handles title transfers, and issues license plates. You can also take your written driving test here if you are a first-time driver. The office does not handle commercial driver's license (CDL) testing; those are handled at separate testing locations.
To schedule an appointment, visit the Texas DMV website at texas.gov/motorvehicles and use the online appointment system. You can also call the office directly. Appointments typically fill up two to four weeks in advance during busy seasons, so plan ahead if you have a important date.
Arkansas DMV office in Texarkana: address, hours, and services
The Arkansas DMV office in Texarkana is located at 5500 Stateline Avenue, Texarkana, AR 71854. Hours are typically Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., though you should call to confirm: (870) 773-9371.
This office issues Arkansas driver's licenses, renews licenses, handles address changes, processes vehicle registrations, and handles title transfers. Like the Texas office, it does not handle CDL testing. Arkansas also offers online renewal for some license types, which you can explore on the Arkansas DMV website at dmv.arkansas.gov.
Appointments can be scheduled through the Arkansas DMV website or by calling the office. Arkansas often has shorter wait times than Texas during the same season, but this varies. Confirm availability before making the trip.
Documents you need for common transactions
Both Texas and Arkansas require original documents or certified copies for most DMV transactions. Photocopies are not accepted. If you do not have an original, you must obtain a certified copy from the issuing agency before your DMV visit.
For a driver's license renewal, bring your current license, proof of residency (utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within the last 60 days), and proof of Social Security number (Social Security card, W-2, or tax return). If you are renewing after it has expired, both states may require you to retake the written test.
For a vehicle registration or title transfer, bring the vehicle title, proof of insurance, proof of residency, and a completed process form (available at the DMV office or online). If the vehicle is financed, bring the lender's information. If you are transferring a title from another state, bring the out-of-state title and a bill of sale if required.
For an address change, bring your current license or ID, proof of your new address, and a completed change-of-address form. Both states process address changes quickly, often while you wait.
Fees and payment methods at both offices
Texas and Arkansas charge different fees for the same services. A Texas driver's license renewal costs around $25 to $40 depending on the license type and whether you add endorsements. An Arkansas driver's license renewal costs around $20 to $30. Vehicle registration and title fees vary widely based on vehicle weight, age, and type.
Both offices accept cash, check, and debit or credit card. Some services may have a surcharge for card payments. Ask at the counter or check the website before you arrive if you want to know the exact fee for your transaction.
Neither office accepts payment by mail for most services, so you must pay in person at your appointment. If you are renewing your license online (available in Arkansas for some drivers), you can pay by card through the website.
What to do if you are moving between Texas and Arkansas
If you move from Texas to Arkansas or vice versa, you must update your driver's license and vehicle registration in your new state within a set timeframe. Texas requires a license update within 30 days of moving. Arkansas requires it within 30 days as well. Driving with an out-of-state license after this important date can result in a traffic citation.
To transfer your registration, bring your current Texas or Arkansas title, proof of insurance in your new state, proof of residency at your new address, and a completed process. The DMV will issue a new registration and may issue new license plates, depending on your new state's rules.
If you are moving from Texas to Arkansas, your Texas title will be accepted as proof of ownership. You do not need to obtain a new title unless the current one is damaged or lost. The same applies if you move from Arkansas to Texas.
Scam alerts and safety information
Do not pay for DMV services through third-party websites or apps that claim to speed up the process. The official Texas DMV website is texas.gov/motorvehicles, and the official Arkansas DMV website is dmv.arkansas.gov. Any other site charging a fee for scheduling or processing is not affiliated with the state.
Beware of emails or texts claiming to be from the DMV asking you to verify your information or pay a fine. The DMV does not contact you by email or text to request personal information. If you receive such a message, do not click any links or provide any information. Delete it and report it to your state's attorney general office.
Do not use a document preparation service or "DMV helper" unless you have verified they are licensed and bonded. Some services charge $50 to $200 to fill out forms that you can complete yourself for free. If you need help understanding the forms, the DMV staff at either office can answer questions at no charge.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my license or registration online instead of going to the office?
Arkansas allows online renewal for some driver's licenses and vehicle registrations through dmv.arkansas.gov. Texas offers online renewal for some licenses through texas.gov/motorvehicles, but not for all types. Check your state's website to see if your specific transaction is available online. If it is not, you must visit the office in person.
What if I lost my Social Security card and do not have another proof of my number?
Contact the Social Security Administration to request a replacement card or a letter stating your number. This can take several weeks. In the meantime, you can use a W-2, tax return, or bank statement showing your Social Security number as proof. Both DMV offices accept these documents.
Do I need an appointment if I am just paying a fine or picking up a document?
Most transactions at both offices require an appointment. Some offices allow walk-ins for straightforward tasks like paying a fine or picking up a document you have already ordered, but this is not may provide. Call ahead to ask whether your specific task can be handled as a walk-in.
What if my appointment time does not work and I need to reschedule?
You can reschedule through the online appointment system on your state's DMV website or by calling the office directly. Canceling and rescheduling usually takes just a few minutes. If you miss an appointment without canceling, you may lose your slot and have to wait for the next available time.
Which office should I visit if I am not sure whether I live in Texas or Arkansas?
Check your property deed, utility bill, or tax records to confirm your state. Your address determines which state you belong to, not which side of town you live on. If you are still unsure, call both offices and describe your address; they can tell you which state it falls in.