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 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
Third-party exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Certified Public Accountant in Arkansas
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Degree required
- Examination: Third-party exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: Affidavit or referral required
- Background Check: Background check required
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
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 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 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 6-24 months.
Median 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 | 6-24 months |
| Missouri | $73,210 | No educational requirements | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Tennessee | $75,500 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Mississippi | $64,170 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Louisiana | $69,540 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Texas | $80,000 | Degree required | Both state and third-party exams required | 6-24 months |
| Oklahoma | $76,820 | 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 | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Missouri | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Tennessee | 50 | Low | 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.
- Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
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 | 6-24 months |
| Civil Engineer | $81,930 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Financial Advisor | $75,150 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Funeral Director | $35,970 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Certified Public Accountant 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 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. License status indicator: Active. Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license. 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/.