Ark. Code Ann. § 27-14-721: Assignment of new identifying numbers

(a) The Office of Motor Vehicle is authorized to assign a distinguishing number to a motor vehicle whenever the serial number on the motor vehicle is destroyed or obliterated and to issue to the owner a special plate bearing the distinguishing number, which shall be affixed to the motor vehicle in a position to be determined by the Office of Motor Vehicle.

(b) The motor vehicle shall be registered under the distinguishing number in lieu of the former serial number.