Application Fee
See agencyVerified by AR Board of Personal Care
Cosmetologist Licensing in Arkansas
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for cosmetologist in Arkansas, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
State exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Cosmetologist in Arkansas
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Specific course required
- Examination: State exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Arkansas Department of Health • Cosmetology and Massage Therapy Section • Board of Health
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$26,450 median (25% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#49 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet baseline eligibility requirements.
- 2. Complete approved education/training requirements.
- 3. Pass required exam(s) and submit application.
- 4. Maintain and renew license according to board rules.
Salary Insights in Arkansas
With a median salary of 26,450, Cosmetologists in Arkansas earn 25% below the national median of $35,250. Arkansas ranks #49 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$26,450Hourly estimate
$12.7225% below national median
Difference: -$8,800
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationCosmetologist Salary Ranking
#49 of 50 statesfor Cosmetologist median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | Washington | 58,920 |
| #2 | Hawaii | 52,000 |
| #3 | Vermont | 49,640 |
| #4 | South Dakota | 49,050 |
| #5 | Maine | 48,480 |
Nearby States Comparison
Cosmetologist licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Arkansas | $26,450 | Specific course required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Missouri | $30,390 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Tennessee | $29,170 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Mississippi | $28,360 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Louisiana | $23,470 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Texas | $28,370 | Specific course required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Oklahoma | $30,680 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
License by Endorsement
Transfer requirements are state-specific. Use this quick matrix as a planning signal, then verify final endorsement rules with each board.
| State | Reciprocity Score | Tier | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Arkansas | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Missouri | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Tennessee | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Mississippi | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Louisiana | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Texas | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Arkansas Department of Health • Cosmetology and Massage Therapy Section • Board of Health
4815 West Markham Street, Slot 8, Little Rock, AR, 72205
Phone: 5016822168
Related Careers in Arkansas
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Barber | $24,700 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Esthetician | $37,250 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Massage Therapist | $31,280 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Nail Technician | $27,780 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Cosmetologist in Arkansas?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about 6-24 months, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What exams are required for Cosmetologists in Arkansas?
Arkansas lists State exam required as part of the licensure process for Cosmetologists.
What education do you need to become a Cosmetologist in Arkansas?
The board typically expects Specific course required for Cosmetologist licensure in Arkansas.
What is the typical Cosmetologist salary in Arkansas?
The median annual salary for Cosmetologists in Arkansas is 26,450. Salaries range from $22,880 (10th percentile) to $35,120 (90th percentile).
How does the Cosmetologist salary in Arkansas compare to the national average?
Cosmetologists in Arkansas earn 25% below the national median of $35,250, with a state median of 26,450.
How many Cosmetologists work in Arkansas?
Arkansas employs approximately 1,610 Cosmetologists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Cosmetologist license to Arkansas from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Cosmetologists in Arkansas?
The licensing agency is Arkansas Department of Health / Cosmetology and Massage Therapy Section / Board of Health. Review agency details at https://www.healthy.arkansas.gov/programs-services/topics/cosmetology.