Arkansas requires new residents to register their vehicle within 30 days of moving to the state. You must present the title, proof of insurance, a completed Application for Title/Registration, and a VIN inspection performed at the county clerk’s office or an authorized inspection site. The process can be started online through the Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration portal for faster service [ARK DMV].
Emission testing is limited to Pulaski County; all other counties are exempt, so most Arkansas drivers skip this step. Window tinting is regulated: front side windows must allow at least 50% light transmission, while rear windows may be darker as long as they do not obstruct the driver’s view. Arkansas follows federal standards for vehicle frame height, so no additional state limits apply [ARK DOT] [ARK Statutes].
When moving to or from Arkansas, consider the climate. Winters are mild but northern regions can see ice, so all‑season or winter tires are advisable if you’ll be driving in colder areas. Summer heat can strain batteries and cooling systems, so keep coolant topped up and use a UV‑protective wax on the paint.
State‑wide insurance requirements set minimum liability at $25,000 per person, $50,000 per accident, and $25,000 for property damage. Proof of this coverage is needed for registration, and many drivers add uninsured/underinsured motorist protection for extra security [ARK Insurance].
For car shipping or auto transport, have the vehicle’s title, VIN inspection report, and insurance proof ready before the carrier arrives. Providing these documents to the Arkansas DMV ahead of time helps avoid registration delays, whether you are shipping into the Natural State or sending your car elsewhere.