What to do, what to bring, and what to expect at the DFA office — start to finish.
An Arkansas motorcycle instruction permit lets you practice riding while you prepare for the Class M license. You apply in person at a Department of Finance and Administration (DFA) Revenue Office, and the written knowledge test is based on the MSF Motorcycle Operator Manual.
The steps below follow the official Arkansas DFA motorcycle licensing process. Always confirm current fees and accepted documents on dfa.arkansas.gov before you go.
You must be at least 16 to pursue a Class M motorcycle license. Riders aged 14 to 15 may instead apply for a Class MD license, which is limited to a motor-driven cycle of 250 cc or less and expires one month after the rider's 16th birthday.
Arkansas uses the Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) Motorcycle Operator Manual. Read it and take practice tests until you consistently score 80% or higher.
Take the 25-question knowledge test in person at a DFA Revenue Office. You need 20 correct — 80% — to pass, and there is no time limit.
With a passing knowledge test, bring your identity, Social Security and Arkansas residency documents (and a parent or guardian signature if you are under 18), pay the fee, and receive your motorcycle instruction permit.
While riding on the instruction permit you generally may not carry a passenger or ride after dark. Use this time to build the skills tested on the on-cycle exam — slow-speed control, braking, turning and swerving.
Take the on-cycle skills test, administered by the Arkansas State Police — or have it waived by completing an approved MSF Basic RiderCourse and presenting the completion certificate within 90 days. Then pay the $40 Class M license fee; the license is valid for eight years.
Check the official DFA page for current fees and accepted forms of payment.
Source: Test details reflect the consensus of major rider-education sources — confirm with the state agency before your visit. Question count is not on the official page; 25 questions / 80% is a strong multi-site consensus. Arkansas uses the standard MSF Motorcycle Operator Manual (18th Edition).