How to Schedule Your Arkansas Driving Written Test

Book your Arkansas written test through the DMV website or by phone

You can schedule your written test appointment online at dmv.arkansas.gov or by calling the Arkansas DMV at 501-682-7060. The online system lets you pick your preferred test location and time slot; the phone line works the same way but takes longer. Both routes are free.

You do not need to schedule in advance if you walk into a DMV office during business hours — you can take the written test the same day. However, online scheduling guarantees your spot and saves you from waiting in line or finding the office closed.

Test locations are spread across the state. The DMV website shows which offices offer written testing and their hours. Some smaller branch offices do not administer tests, so check the location list before you go.

Key Takeaways

• Schedule online at dmv.arkansas.gov or call 501-682-7060; both are free and take about five minutes.
• You can walk in without an appointment during DMV business hours and take the test the same day if you bring required documents.
• Bring your Social Security number, proof of residency (utility bill, lease, or bank statement), and a valid ID to your appointment.
• The written test covers road signs, traffic laws, and safe driving practices; you need a score of 70 percent or higher to pass.
• Test results are available immediately after you finish, and you can retake the test the same day if you do not pass.

What documents to bring to your appointment

Bring your Social Security number or Social Security card, a valid photo ID (passport, military ID, or out-of-state driver's license), and proof of residency. Proof of residency can be a utility bill, lease agreement, bank statement, or government mail dated within the last 60 days showing your current address.

If you are under 18, bring a parent or guardian with you. They will need to sign consent forms before you can test. Bring the same documents listed above for yourself.

Do not bring study materials, phones, or other devices into the testing room. The DMV provides a pencil and scratch paper if you need them.

What the written test covers and how to prepare

The Arkansas written test has 25 multiple-choice questions about road signs, traffic laws, right-of-way rules, and safe driving practices. You need to answer at least 18 questions correctly (70 percent) to pass. The test is given on a computer at the DMV office.

The DMV publishes a free study guide on its website that covers all the topics on the test. You can download it, print it, or read it online. Many people study the guide for a few hours or a few days before their appointment. There is no time limit on how long you can study before you test.

If you do not pass, you can retake the test the same day at most locations, though some offices may ask you to come back another time. There is usually a small fee for each retake attempt.

How long the appointment takes

Plan to spend 30 to 45 minutes at the DMV office. This includes checking in, reviewing your documents, and taking the test itself. The actual test takes about 10 to 15 minutes once you sit down at the computer.

If you walk in without an appointment, you may wait longer depending on how busy the office is. Scheduling ahead removes the wait and gets you in at your reserved time.

What happens after you pass

You will see your score on the computer screen as soon as you finish the test. If you pass, the DMV will give you a receipt showing your passing score. Keep this receipt — you will need it when you schedule your road test appointment.

Your passing score is valid for 12 months. This means you have one year from the date you pass the written test to schedule and take your road test. If you do not take the road test within that year, you will need to retake the written test.

The next step is scheduling your road test, which you can do at the same DMV office or online through the website.

Rescheduling or canceling your appointment

If you scheduled online and need to change your appointment, log back into dmv.arkansas.gov with the confirmation number from your booking email. You can reschedule to a different date or time at the same location or switch to a different office.

To cancel by phone, call 501-682-7060 during business hours. The DMV does not charge a fee to reschedule or cancel. If you miss your appointment without canceling, you may lose your spot, and you will need to schedule again.

Test locations and office hours

The Arkansas DMV operates testing locations in Little Rock, Fayetteville, Fort Smith, Jonesboro, Pine Bluff, Hot Springs, and several other cities. Not every DMV office gives the written test, so check the location list on dmv.arkansas.gov before you go.

Most offices are open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., with some variation by location. A few offices have Saturday hours. The website shows the exact hours for each location. Call ahead if you are traveling more than 30 minutes to confirm the office is open and has testing available that day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take the written test in a language other than English?

The Arkansas DMV offers the written test in English only. If you need language support, contact your local DMV office to ask about interpreter services or other accommodations before your appointment.

What if I fail the written test?

You can retake the test the same day at most locations, though you may need to pay a small fee for the second attempt. There is no limit on how many times you can retake it. Study the DMV guide again before your next attempt.

Do I need an appointment, or can I just walk in?

You can walk in during business hours and take the test the same day if you bring all required documents. However, scheduling online or by phone guarantees your spot and eliminates waiting time.

How long is my passing score valid?

Your passing score is valid for 12 months from the date you pass. You must schedule and take your road test within that year, or you will need to retake the written test.

What if I lose my passing score receipt?

Contact the DMV office where you took the test and ask for a copy of your score record. Bring your ID and Social Security number. There may be a small fee for a duplicate record.