Updated for 2026

Arkansas DFA (Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration) / ASP (Arkansas State Police)

Comprehensive study guide for the 2026 driver's knowledge exam. Everything you need to know about laws, fees, and requirements.

Total Questions

Passing Score

Standard Fee

$5 (Written Test) + $40 (License Fee)

Testing System

computerized touchscreen

Critical Failure Factors

A leading cause of failure in Arkansas is the 'rolling stop' (often called a Hollywood stop) at stop signs, along with a lack of awareness regarding the specific provisions of 'Isaac's Law' for school buses and improper observation of blind spots during lane changes.

Legal Statutes & Driving Codes

Arkansas traffic laws are enforced under the Arkansas Motor Vehicle and Traffic Laws, with several statutes that are distinct to the state's rural and community-focused nature. One of the most critical and frequently tested regulations is 'Isaac's Law' (Act 2128). Named in memory of Isaac Brian, a student killed by a driver passing a stopped school bus, this law mandates strict penalties for passing a school bus that is displaying flashing red lights and an extended stop arm. Drivers must stop at least 30 feet away from the bus, regardless of the direction they are traveling, unless they are on the opposite side of a divided highway separated by a physical median of at least 20 feet wide. A mere turn lane is NOT a barrier. Violating Isaac's Law is a serious offense that can lead to negligent homicide charges if a fatality occurs. Another vital regulation is the state's 'Move Over Law' (Section 27-51-310). While most states require moving over for police, Arkansas explicitly includes utility vehicles, Arkansas Department of Transportation (ARDOT) vehicles, and tow trucks displaying flashing white, amber, or green lights. Drivers must move to the farthest lane or slow down significantly. Arkansas is also unique in its Graduated Driver License (GDL) age requirements. It allows teenagers to obtain a Learner's License at age 14, one of the youngest ages in the United States. Between ages 14 and 16, the learner must always be accompanied by a licensed driver over 21. Upon turning 16, they may obtain an Intermediate License, provided they have no serious accidents or violations. Restrictions for Intermediate drivers (16-18) include a curfew: no driving between 11:00 PM and 4:00 AM unless accompanied by an adult, or traveling to/from work, school, or church activities. Furthermore, Arkansas strictly prohibits the use of handheld wireless telephones in school zones for ALL drivers (Fewer Distractions Means Safer Driving Act). Speeding in these zones or in highway work zones results in doubled fines. Lastly, drivers must yield to pedestrians in crosswalks, but pedestrians must not suddenly leave a curb and walk or run into the path of a vehicle that is so close that it is impossible for the driver to yield.

Statistical Realities

Driving in Arkansas presents a mix of rural hazards and specific legislative quirks that can surprise unprepared test-takers. A statistically alarming fact is that Arkansas consistently ranks among the top states for teen traffic fatalities per capita, often attributed to the high prevalence of rural, winding roads where run-off-the-road crashes are common. This reality makes the 'defensive driving' portion of the manual particularly crucial. A lesser-known but legally enforceable fact involves honking your horn: under an old but valid Arkansas statute (specifically in places like Little Rock), it is technically illegal to honk your horn at any place where cold drinks or sandwiches are served after 9:00 PM. While rarely enforced, it highlights the importance of reading the manual's section on 'unnecessary noise'. Another unique aspect of Arkansas driving is the strict regulation of vehicle lights. It is illegal for any civilian vehicle to display a blue light; blue is reserved exclusively for law enforcement. Having even a decorative blue light on your car can lead to an impersonation charge. Regarding the test itself, the fee structure is bifurcated: you pay $5.00 specifically for the written knowledge test, and upon passing, you pay roughly $40.00 for the license issuance. Unlike some states with 50 questions, the Arkansas test is concise with only 25 questions, but this leaves little room for error—you must answer 20 correctly (80%) to pass. Missing just 6 questions means failure. The state also emphasizes the 'Steer It, Clear It' philosophy; if you are in a non-injury fender bender on a highway, state law requires you to move the vehicle to the shoulder to avoid impeding traffic. Additionally, Arkansas has a specific focus on railroad safety due to its extensive rail network; you are required to stop within 50 feet but not less than 15 feet from the nearest rail if a signal is flashing. Finally, be aware of the 'Move Over' law's expansion: recent updates have doubled fines for traffic violations in mobile work zones, meaning if you speed past a moving pothole-patching crew, the penalty is severe.