Application Fee
See agencyDentist Licensing in Arkansas
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for dentist 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 Dentist 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: No experience required
- Background Check: Felony convictions prohibited
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Arkansas Department of Health • Arkansas State Board of Dental Examiners
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$172,490 median (0% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#26 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 172,490, Dentists in Arkansas earn 0% below the national median of $172,790. Arkansas ranks #26 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
SteadyQoQ Employment Change
+1%Average Weekly Wage
$1,118Median annual salary
$172,490Hourly estimate
$82.93Difference: -$300
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationDentist Salary Ranking
Nearby States Comparison
Dentist licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Arkansas | $172,490 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Missouri | $172,790 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Tennessee | $154,460 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Mississippi | $128,570 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Louisiana | $179,600 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Texas | $157,370 | Degree required | Both state and third-party exams required | 6-24 months |
| Oklahoma | $161,780 | Specific course 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 | 50 | 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 Health • Arkansas State Board of Dental Examiners
101 East Capitol Ave., Suite 111, Little Rock, AR, 72201
Phone: 5016822085
Related Careers in Arkansas
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $99,330 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $77,780 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $50,480 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $37,680 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Dentist 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 Dentists in Arkansas?
Arkansas lists Third-party exam required as part of the licensure process for Dentists.
What education do you need to become a Dentist in Arkansas?
The board typically expects Degree required for Dentist licensure in Arkansas.
What is the typical Dentist salary in Arkansas?
The median annual salary for Dentists in Arkansas is 172,490.
How does the Dentist salary in Arkansas compare to the national average?
Dentists in Arkansas earn 0% below the national median of $172,790, with a state median of 172,490.
How many Dentists work in Arkansas?
Arkansas employs approximately 990 Dentists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Dentist 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 Dentists in Arkansas?
The licensing agency is Arkansas Department of Health / Arkansas State Board of Dental Examiners. Review agency details at https://healthy.arkansas.gov/.