Application Fee
See agencyVerified by AR Board of Business
Certified Public Accountant Licensing in Arkansas
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for certified public accountant in Arkansas, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 17, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
Third-party exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Certified Public Accountant in Arkansas
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: Degree required.
- 2
License Type: Stand-alone license.
Exam and processing details
- Third-party exam required
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Arkansas Department of Labor and Licensing • Arkansas State Board of Public Accountancy
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$64,180 median (21% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#49 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet Arkansas eligibility requirements for Certified Public Accountant licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training: Degree required.
- 3. Pass required examination steps: Third-party exam required.
- 4. Submit the application to Arkansas Department of Labor and Licensing~Arkansas State Board of Public Accountancy and monitor board communications.
Salary Insights in Arkansas
With a median salary of $64,180, Certified Public Accountants in Arkansas earn 21% below the national median of $81,680. Arkansas ranks #49 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
SteadyQoQ Employment Change
+1%Average Weekly Wage
$1,118Median annual salary
$64,180Hourly estimate
$30.8621% below national median
Difference: -$17,500
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationCertified Public Accountant Salary Ranking
#49 of 50 statesfor Certified Public Accountant median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | New York | $101,780 |
| #2 | New Jersey | $101,340 |
| #3 | Massachusetts | $96,580 |
| #4 | California | $96,360 |
| #5 | Washington | $96,180 |
Nearby States Comparison
Certified Public Accountant licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Arkansas | $64,180 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Missouri | $73,210 | No educational requirements | State exam required | Varies by board |
| Tennessee | $75,500 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Mississippi | $64,170 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Louisiana | $69,540 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Texas | $80,000 | Degree required | Both state and third-party exams required | Varies by board |
| Oklahoma | $76,820 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
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 | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Tennessee | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Mississippi | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Louisiana | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Texas | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Official website verified
Arkansas Department of Labor and Licensing • Arkansas State Board of Public Accountancy
900 W. Capitol, Suite 400, Little Rock, AR, 72201
Phone: 5016821520
Related Careers in Arkansas
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Architect | $84,310 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Audio and Video Technicians | $38,620 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Civil Engineer | $81,930 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Claims Adjuster | $75,030 | Specific course required | 1-18 years |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Certified Public Accountant in Arkansas?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about Varies by board, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What exams are required for Certified Public Accountants in Arkansas?
Arkansas lists Third-party exam required as part of the licensure process for Certified Public Accountants.
What education do you need to become a Certified Public Accountant in Arkansas?
The board typically expects Degree required for Certified Public Accountant licensure in Arkansas.
What is the typical Certified Public Accountant salary in Arkansas?
The median annual salary for Certified Public Accountants in Arkansas is $64,180. Salaries range from $41,670 (10th percentile) to $118,730 (90th percentile).
How does the Certified Public Accountant salary in Arkansas compare to the national average?
Certified Public Accountants in Arkansas earn 21% below the national median of $81,680, with a state median of $64,180.
How many Certified Public Accountants work in Arkansas?
Arkansas employs approximately 7,710 Certified Public Accountants according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Certified Public Accountant license to Arkansas from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Certified Public Accountants in Arkansas?
The licensing agency is Arkansas Department of Labor and Licensing / Arkansas State Board of Public Accountancy. Review agency details at https://asbpa.arkansas.gov/.
How often do you renew a Certified Public Accountant license in Arkansas?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.