How to Reinstate Your Driver’s License After a DWI in Arkansas

Lost Your License After a DWI? Here's How to Get It Back—The Right Way

A DWI conviction in Arkansas doesn’t just mean fines or court dates—it often means losing your license and your freedom to drive. And if you're like most of our clients, you rely on your car for work, family, and everything in between. The good news? You don’t have to stay stuck.

At Ludwig Law Firm, we’ve helped countless Arkansans win back their driving privileges after a DWI. In this guide, we’ll walk you through:

• How long your license will be suspended

• What it takes to reinstate your license

• How to apply for a restricted license

• Mistakes that delay the process—and how we help you avoid them

How Long Will You Be Without a License?

The length of your suspension depends on:

• How many DWIs you’ve had

• Your BAC level at the time of arrest

• Whether you refused chemical testing

DWI License Suspension Periods in Arkansas:

💡 First-time offender? You may qualify for a restricted ignition interlock license (IIL) to drive sooner.

Step-by-Step: How to Reinstate Your License

You don't automatically get your license back when your suspension ends. Here's what you need to do:

Step 1: Complete Court-Ordered Programs

This may include:

• DWI education

• Alcohol treatment

• Community service
  ➡️ You must submit proof of completion.

Step 2: Pay All Required Fees

You’ll need to cover:

• $150 reinstatement fee (to the DFA)

• All court fines and penalties

• Interlock device fees (if required)

📌 No reinstatement will be processed until fees are paid.

Step 3: Install an Ignition Interlock Device (If Required)

• Required for multiple offenses

• Prevents the car from starting if alcohol is detected

• Costs: $75–$150 to install + $60–$100/month for monitoring

Step 4: Secure SR-22 Insurance

You’ll need this high-risk insurance for up to 3 years.
Failure to maintain SR-22 coverage = automatic re-suspension.

Step 5: Apply for Reinstatement

Submit your application to the Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration (DFA):

• Online: mydmv.arkansas.gov

• In-person: DFA Revenue Office

• By mail: Include documents + payment

Step 6: Retest (If Required)

If your license was suspended for over a year, you may have to:

• Retake the written test

• Pass a vision exam

• Complete a driving test

Can You Get a Restricted or Hardship License?

Yes—especially if this is your first offense.

Eligibility:

• First-time DWI: Apply immediately

• Second/Third DWI: Apply after serving part of suspension

• Must install IID and maintain SR-22 insurance

⚠️ Violating interlock rules (e.g. failing breath tests) can result in revocation of your restricted license.

Common Mistakes That Delay Reinstatement

These missteps can cost you time—and keep you off the road:

• 🔴 Not completing DWI school or treatment

• 🔴 Failing to pay fines or reinstatement fees

• 🔴 Letting SR-22 insurance lapse

• 🔴 Driving before official reinstatement

💡 Pro Tip: Don’t guess your way through this process. Our team can ensure every requirement is completed and filed correctly.

Why You Should Hire Ludwig Law Firm

At Ludwig Law Firm, we don’t just check boxes—we fight for your fastest path to reinstatement.

We help you:

• Avoid delays and paperwork errors

• Secure a restricted license ASAP

• Challenge any wrongful suspension

• Negotiate better outcomes in repeat offense cases

If your license is suspended after a DWI, we have one goal: get you back on the road legally—fast.

📞 Ready to Get Back Behind the Wheel?

We help good people bounce back after bad moments. If you're serious about getting your license back after a DWI in Arkansas, call Ludwig Law Firm today.

☎ Call Now: 501-838-4043
🌐 Visit: https://ludwiglawfirm.com
📍 Serving Little Rock and all of Arkansas
🕒 Available 24/7

We Simply Win. Let's win your freedom to drive again.

Disclaimer: This blog is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Every case is different. For legal guidance specific to your situation, contact Ludwig Law Firm directly to schedule a consultation.

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