Arkansas · DWI · Checked October 2026

Refusing a Breath or Blood Test in Arkansas

Refusing a Breath or Blood Test in Arkansas: What Are the Rules?

What happens if you refuse a breath or blood test in Arkansas.

Refusal penalty
License suspension of 180 days (first), 24 months (second within 5 years), 3-year revocation (third within 5 years), lifetime revocation (fourth within 5 years); victim impact panel and $150 reinstatement fee
License suspension for refusing
180 days (first); 24 months (second within 5 years); 3-year revocation (third within 5 years); lifetime revocation (fourth within 5 years)
Deadline to challenge
7 days

Refusal Penalties in Arkansas

License suspension of 180 days (first), 24 months (second within 5 years), 3-year revocation (third within 5 years), lifetime revocation (fourth within 5 years); victim impact panel and $150 reinstatement feeArk. Code Ann. § 5-65-205

Official source: refusal penalties (Arkansas)

License Suspension for Refusing in Arkansas

180 days (first); 24 months (second within 5 years); 3-year revocation (third within 5 years); lifetime revocation (fourth within 5 years)Ark. Code Ann. §§ 5-65-103, 5-65-205 (as referenced by DFA Office of Driver Services)

Official source: license suspension for refusing (Arkansas)

More on DWI Law in Arkansas

See the full overview of DWI laws in Arkansas and read about implied consent laws in every state.

This page summarizes Arkansas law from official sources, checked October 2026. It isn't legal advice; a lawyer licensed in Arkansas can advise on your case.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Happens if You Refuse a Breath Test in Arkansas?

License suspension of 180 days (first), 24 months (second within 5 years), 3-year revocation (third within 5 years), lifetime revocation (fourth within 5 years); victim impact panel and $150 reinstatement fee

How Long Is the Suspension for Refusing?

180 days (first); 24 months (second within 5 years); 3-year revocation (third within 5 years); lifetime revocation (fourth within 5 years)

Sources

  1. Implied consent: Ark. Code Ann. § 5-65-205
  2. License suspension and hearing: Ark. Code Ann. §§ 5-65-103, 5-65-205 (as referenced by DFA Office of Driver Services)

dui.help is an independent guide, not a law firm or a government agency, and doesn't give legal advice. For advice on your case, talk to a lawyer licensed in your state; your state bar can refer you, and if you can't afford a lawyer, ask the court about a public defender.