This comprehensive guide to Arkansas traffic laws provides clear, plain-English explanations of the most commonly searched driving rules in the Natural State. From double yellow line regulations to school bus stop requirements, speed limits, DUI penalties, U-turn laws, and right-of-way rules—every section references the official Arkansas Code Title 27 (Transportation) and guidance from the Arkansas Department of Transportation (ARDOT) and Arkansas State Highway and Transportation Department. This is not legal advice; always obey posted signs, signals, and directions from law enforcement officers.
Arkansas highways wind through the Ozarks and Ouachitas, requiring strict adherence to lane markings and traffic rules.
Arkansas Double Yellow Line Rules & No-Passing Zone Laws
Arkansas Code § 27-51-301: Driving on Roadways with Lane Markings
In Arkansas, double solid yellow centerlines mark a no-passing zone for traffic in both directions. Under Arkansas Code § 27-51-301, drivers are prohibited from crossing double yellow lines to overtake or pass another vehicle. These pavement markings are strategically placed on hills, curves, narrow bridges, and other locations where passing would create a dangerous situation. Violating this statute can result in fines of $100-$200, court costs, and 3 points added to your Arkansas driving record.
Legal Exceptions: When You Can Cross Double Yellow Lines in Arkansas
Arkansas law permits drivers to cross double solid yellow lines in specific, limited circumstances. The most common legal exceptions include:
Left turns into driveways, alleys, or private roads: You may cross the centerline when it is safe to turn left into a driveway, business entrance, or private property access point. You must yield to all oncoming traffic and pedestrians.
Avoiding obstacles or hazards: Temporary obstructions such as debris, disabled vehicles, road maintenance equipment, or animals on the roadway may require crossing the centerline briefly when no opposing traffic is present and it is safe to do so.
Following official instructions: When law enforcement officers, traffic control personnel, or emergency responders direct you to cross the centerline, you must comply with their instructions.
These exceptions do not authorize passing slower vehicles or maneuvering around traffic congestion. Any crossing must be brief, necessary, and executed only when the opposing lane is completely clear and you have adequate sight distance. For more detailed guidance, see our comprehensive article on when you may cross a double solid yellow line.
Single Solid Yellow Line Combined with Broken Yellow Line
Arkansas roads frequently feature a combination of solid and broken (dashed) yellow centerlines. When you see this configuration, the rule is straightforward: drivers on the side with the broken yellow line may pass when it is safe; drivers on the side with the solid yellow line must not pass. Always verify which type of line is on your side before attempting any passing maneuver. These combinations are common on Arkansas's rural two-lane highways where sight distance and terrain conditions vary frequently.
Painted Median: Two Sets of Double Yellow Lines in Arkansas
In some Arkansas urban areas, you may encounter two parallel sets of double yellow lines with a painted buffer zone between them—often called a "painted median" or "flush median." This configuration functions as a barrier zone that you must treat like a physical raised median. Arkansas law prohibits driving on, crossing, or turning across this painted median except at designated openings clearly marked for left turns. Violating this rule can result in citations for improper lane use. Learn more in our guide to two sets of double yellow lines.
Double yellow lines in Arkansas prohibit passing but allow safe left turns into driveways when clear.
Arkansas Right Turn on Red & Traffic Signal Regulations
Arkansas Code § 27-52-206: Right Turn on Red After Stopping
Arkansas law permits drivers to make a right turn on red after coming to a complete stop at the stop line, marked crosswalk, or edge of the intersection—unless specifically prohibited by a posted sign. Before making the turn, you must:
Come to a full and complete stop behind the stop line or crosswalk
Yield the right-of-way to pedestrians lawfully within the crosswalk or intersection
Yield to all vehicles and bicyclists that have the green signal or right-of-way
Check carefully for "NO TURN ON RED" signs, which may be in effect at all times or during specific posted hours
Failure to stop completely before turning right on red is one of the most common traffic violations in Arkansas. Rolling through the stop or blocking the crosswalk can result in citations ranging from $75 to $150, plus court costs and points on your license. Many Arkansas intersections, particularly in Little Rock, Fayetteville, and Fort Smith, are equipped with red-light cameras that automatically capture violations.
Understanding "No Turn on Red" Signs & Time Restrictions
Some Arkansas intersections display "NO TURN ON RED" signs with supplemental time-of-day restrictions. For example, a sign reading "NO TURN ON RED 7 AM - 6 PM SCHOOL DAYS" means the restriction applies only during those specified hours on school days; outside that window, right on red is permitted after a full stop. Always read supplemental plaques carefully. When in doubt, wait for the green signal to avoid a citation. For general information about right-turn rules, consult our right turn on red guide.
Left Turn on Red in Arkansas: Rare but Legal in Specific Cases
Unlike many states, Arkansas does allow left turns on red in a very specific scenario: from aone-way street onto another one-way street, after stopping and yielding to traffic and pedestrians. This maneuver is legal only where both the origin and destination streets are one-way and no sign prohibits it. Left turns on red from two-way streets or onto two-way streets remain prohibited. This exception is uncommon and typically applies only in certain downtown areas with one-way grid systems. See our detailed explanation in the article on left turn on red from one-way to one-way.
Yellow Light Intervals & Red Light Running in Arkansas
Arkansas traffic signals follow timing standards established by the Arkansas Department of Transportation (ARDOT) and the Federal Highway Administration's Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD). Yellow (amber) light intervals typically range from 3 to 6 seconds, depending on the posted speed limit and intersection geometry. If you are already within the intersection when the light turns red, you should proceed through safely. Entering the intersection after the signal has turned red is a violation and can result in fines, points, and increased insurance premiums.
Arkansas Red Light Camera Enforcement Programs
Several Arkansas cities have implemented automated red-light enforcement systems. While some programs have been discontinued or are subject to ongoing legal challenges, cameras remain active in certain jurisdictions. Fines for red-light camera violations typically range from $75 to $150. Citations are usually mailed to the registered owner of the vehicle. Review your citation carefully for payment deadlines and options to contest the ticket in court.
Common Defenses Against Red Light Violations
Drivers cited for red-light violations may contest the ticket by demonstrating that: (1) they made a complete stop before turning right on red, (2) the yellow interval was improperly timed (too short for the speed limit), (3) wet or icy road conditions made stopping unsafe, or (4) they were directed to proceed by an emergency vehicle or law enforcement officer. Consult a qualified traffic attorney if you plan to contest a red-light citation in Arkansas court.
Always stop completely and yield to pedestrians before making a right turn on red in Arkansas.
Arkansas School Bus Stop Laws & Child Safety Requirements
Arkansas Code § 27-51-1004: Stopping for School Buses with Flashing Lights
When a school bus activates its flashing red warning lights and extends the mechanical stop arm, Arkansas law requires all traffic to stop and remain stopped until the signals are deactivated. The specific requirements depend on the type of roadway:
Undivided roads (no physical median): All vehicles traveling in both directions must stop at least 20 feet from the bus and remain stopped until the red lights stop flashing and the stop arm is retracted.
Divided highways (with raised median, barrier, or unpaved divider): Only traffic traveling in the same direction as the school bus must stop. Vehicles on the opposite side of a physical divider may proceed with caution.
Multi-lane roads without a physical median: All lanes in both directions must stop. A painted center turn lane or double yellow lines do not constitute a physical divider.
Illegally passing a stopped school bus is one of Arkansas's most serious traffic offenses due to the extreme risk to children. Penalties for a first offense include fines up to $250, potential license suspension for 21 days, and mandatory traffic safety education. If a child is injured or killed as a result of the violation, criminal charges—including reckless driving or vehicular manslaughter—may be filed.
Flashing Yellow Lights vs. Flashing Red Lights on School Buses
Arkansas school buses use a two-stage warning system. First, flashing yellow lights activate to alert drivers that the bus is preparing to stop to load or unload children. During the yellow-light phase, you should slow down and prepare to stop, but you are not yet required to stop. Once the flashing red lightsactivate and the stop arm extends, you must stop and remain stopped until all signals are deactivated and the bus begins moving again or the driver signals you to proceed.
Enhanced Penalties in Arkansas School Zones
Arkansas law authorizes municipalities to establish designated school zones with reduced speed limits (typically 15-20 mph) during school arrival and dismissal times. Fines for traffic violations—including speeding, passing a school bus, or failing to yield to pedestrians—are often doubled in active school zones. Flashing beacons or electronic speed limit signs indicate when the reduced limit is in effect. For additional context on school bus safety laws across the United States, review our school bus stop laws guide.
Reporting School Bus Passing Violations & Camera Systems
Arkansas is piloting school bus camera enforcement programs in select districts. Buses equipped with external cameras can record vehicles that illegally pass the extended stop arm. Video evidence may be forwarded to law enforcement for citation. If you witness a vehicle illegally passing a stopped school bus, note the license plate number, vehicle description, time, location, and direction of travel, then report it to local police or the school district's transportation office.
On undivided Arkansas roads, all traffic in both directions must stop for a school bus with flashing red lights.
Arkansas Speed Limit Laws & Enforcement Standards
Arkansas Code § 27-51-201 through § 27-51-205: Maximum Speed Limits
Arkansas's basic speed law requires drivers to operate their vehicles at speeds that are reasonable and prudent under the prevailing conditions. Even if you are driving at or below the posted speed limit, you can be cited for speeding if your speed is unsafe given weather, traffic density, visibility, or road surface conditions. Conversely, driving unreasonably slowly can also result in a citation under Arkansas Code § 27-51-208 if it impedes the normal and reasonable flow of traffic.
Arkansas Default and Posted Speed Limits
When no speed limit signs are posted, Arkansas establishes the following statutory default limits:
Residential and urban districts: 25-30 mph (varies by municipality)
Unpaved county roads: 35 mph
Two-lane state highways: 55 mph
Four-lane divided highways: 65 mph
Interstate highways (rural): 70-75 mph (varies by segment; some rural stretches of I-40 and I-30 permit 75 mph)
Interstate highways (urban areas): 55-65 mph
These are maximum limits under ideal conditions. Always reduce your speed for rain, fog, ice, heavy traffic, construction zones, or any other hazard. Arkansas State Police and local law enforcement actively enforce speed limits using radar, LIDAR (laser), aircraft, and pacing techniques.
Work Zone Speed Reductions & Doubled Fines
Arkansas law mandates reduced speed limits in active highway work zones where workers are present. Signs reading "WORK ZONE / FINES DOUBLED" or "SPEED LIMIT 45 MPH WHEN WORKERS PRESENT" indicate these zones. Fines for speeding violations in work zones are automatically doubled. A typical speeding ticket in Arkansas ranges from $50 to $200 depending on how much you exceed the limit; in a work zone, that same violation could cost $100 to $400 or more after court costs and fees.
School Zone Speed Limits & Time-Based Restrictions
Arkansas school zones typically enforce reduced speed limits of 15-20 mph when children are present or during posted school hours. Flashing yellow beacons, electronic speed limit signs, or time-of-day plaques indicate when the reduced limit applies. Common signage reads "SCHOOL ZONE / SPEED LIMIT 20 MPH WHEN CHILDREN PRESENT" or "SCHOOL DAYS 7-9 AM / 2-4 PM." Always slow down and watch for children near schools, even if the zone is not officially active—safety comes first.
Speeding Penalties & Arkansas Point System
The Arkansas Office of Motor Vehicle administers a point system for traffic violations. Speeding citations add points to your driving record as follows:
1-10 mph over the limit: 3 points
11-14 mph over the limit: 4 points
15+ mph over the limit: 8 points
Reckless driving: 8 points
Accumulating 14 or more points in a three-year period results in license suspension. Drivers may attend a state-approved defensive driving course to reduce points, but this option is limited and may not be available for serious or repeat offenses. Insurance companies also use points to determine premium increases, so even minor speeding tickets can have long-term financial consequences.
In Arkansas, radar detectors are legal for use in private passenger vehicles (but not in commercial vehicles over 10,000 lbs or on military bases). However, laser jammers and radar jammers areprohibited under federal and state law. Possession or use of jamming devices can result in equipment confiscation, fines, and criminal charges. Arkansas State Police and local agencies use a combination of radar guns, LIDAR systems, and aircraft-based speed enforcement. Officers must be trained and certified on their equipment; you may request calibration and maintenance records if you contest a speeding citation in court.
Arkansas DUI & Impaired Driving Penalties
Arkansas Code § 5-65-111: Driving While Intoxicated
Arkansas law makes it illegal to operate a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of0.08% or higher for drivers age 21 and over, 0.02% or higher for drivers under age 21, and 0.04% or higher for commercial vehicle operators. Even if your BAC is below the legal threshold, you can still be arrested and charged with DUI if law enforcement determines that alcohol, drugs, or a combination of both have impaired your ability to safely operate a vehicle.
First-Offense DUI Penalties in Arkansas
A first-time DUI conviction in Arkansas carries the following penalties:
Fines: Up to $1,000
Jail time: Up to 1 year (though many first offenders receive probation or suspended sentences)
License suspension: 120 days (restricted license may be available after 30 days with ignition interlock device)
Mandatory alcohol education or substance abuse treatment programs
Possible community service requirements
Court costs, administrative fees, and ignition interlock installation and monitoring fees
Penalties escalate sharply for repeat offenses, high BAC levels (0.15% or above), DUI with a minor in the vehicle, or DUI accidents resulting in injury or death. A second DUI within five years results in longer jail time, extended license suspension (24 months), and mandatory ignition interlock for at least 24 months after reinstatement.
Arkansas Implied Consent Law & Chemical Test Refusal
Under Arkansas's implied consent law (Arkansas Code § 5-65-202), by operating a vehicle on Arkansas roads, you automatically consent to chemical testing (breath, blood, or urine) if lawfully arrested for DUI. Refusing a chemical test results in an automatic 180-day license suspension for a first refusal, and longer for subsequent refusals. Refusal can also be introduced as evidence against you in court. Note that you have the right to request an independent test at your own expense after submitting to the state-administered test.
Ignition Interlock Devices & Hardship Licenses in Arkansas
Arkansas allows or requires ignition interlock devices (IID) for certain DUI offenders. An IID is a breath-testing unit wired to your vehicle's ignition; the engine will not start unless you provide a breath sample below a preset BAC threshold (typically 0.02%). First-time offenders may qualify for a restricted license after 30 days of a suspension if they install an approved IID. The device must remain installed for the duration of the restricted license period, and violations (failed tests, tampering) extend the requirement or result in license revocation. Installation, monthly monitoring fees, and calibration costs are the responsibility of the driver.
Arkansas U-Turn Laws & Intersection Regulations
Arkansas Code § 27-51-1501: Where U-Turns Are Permitted
Arkansas law permits U-turns at intersections and mid-block locations unless specifically prohibited by a posted sign or where the maneuver cannot be made safely. Common restrictions include:
Posted "No U-Turn" signs: Always obey regulatory signs prohibiting U-turns at specific intersections or roadway segments.
Limited sight distance: U-turns are prohibited on curves, hills, or other locations where you cannot see approaching traffic for at least 500 feet in each direction.
Business districts: Many Arkansas municipalities restrict U-turns in downtown business districts; check local ordinances and posted signs.
Near fire stations and emergency facilities: U-turns may be prohibited within 100-200 feet of fire stations or other emergency response facilities.
When executing a legal U-turn, you must yield the right-of-way to all approaching vehicles and pedestrians. Use your left turn signal, check mirrors and blind spots, and complete the maneuver in a single, continuous motion without stopping in the opposing lane. For additional details on making U-turns across centerlines, see our guide onU-turns across double yellow lines.
In Arkansas, drivers must yield to pedestrians in marked crosswalks and in unmarked crosswalks at intersections. An unmarked crosswalk is defined as the extension of the sidewalk or shoulder across the roadway at any intersection, even when no painted lines or signs are present. Failure to yield to a pedestrian lawfully in a crosswalk can result in fines of $50-$200, points on your license, and potential civil liability if an accident occurs.
Mid-Block Crosswalks & Pedestrian Signals in Arkansas
Some Arkansas cities have installed mid-block crosswalks equipped with pedestrian-activated signals, including rectangular rapid-flashing beacons (RRFBs) or standard traffic signals. When the signal is activated or a pedestrian is in the crosswalk, all vehicles must stop and remain stopped until the pedestrian has completely crossed your lane and the adjacent lane. Passing a vehicle stopped at a crosswalk is illegal and extremely dangerous.
Jaywalking & Pedestrian Responsibilities
Pedestrians in Arkansas are required to use marked crosswalks where provided and to obey pedestrian control signals (WALK/DON'T WALK or countdown timers). Crossing mid-block or against a signal—commonly called "jaywalking"—is a violation, though enforcement varies widely. Even when a pedestrian is jaywalking or violating traffic laws, drivers still have a duty to exercise reasonable care to avoid striking them. Arkansas follows a modified comparative fault system in personal injury cases, meaning both driver and pedestrian negligence can be considered.
Vulnerable Road User Protections in Arkansas
While Arkansas has not yet enacted comprehensive vulnerable road user (VRU) legislation at the state level, local jurisdictions and prosecutors may pursue enhanced charges—such as aggravated assault or vehicular homicide—when a driver causes serious injury or death to a pedestrian, cyclist, or motorcyclist through reckless or negligent behavior. Always give extra space and attention to pedestrians, cyclists, and other vulnerable road users.
This guide summarizes common Arkansas traffic rules based on state statutes and ARDOT guidance. It is not legal advice. Always follow posted signs, signals, and instructions from law enforcement. Consult an attorney for specific legal questions or if you are facing traffic citations.
