Application Fee
See agencyVerified by AR Board of Business
Lawyer Licensing in Arkansas
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for lawyer in Arkansas, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
State-approved examRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Lawyer in Arkansas
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Register with licensing agency
- Education: Varies by state board
- Examination: State-approved exam
- Application Fee: See agency
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Supreme Court of Arkansas • Arkansas State Board of Law Examiners
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$86,970 median (42% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#50 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 86,970, Lawyers in Arkansas earn 42% below the national median of $151,160. Arkansas ranks #50 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
$86,970Hourly estimate
$41.8142% below national median
Difference: -$64,190
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationLawyer Salary Ranking
#50 of 50 statesfor Lawyer median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | California | 197,790 |
| #2 | Massachusetts | 179,050 |
| #3 | New York | 177,210 |
| #4 | Delaware | 172,710 |
| #5 | Colorado | 167,970 |
Nearby States Comparison
Lawyer licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Arkansas | $86,970 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Missouri | $124,210 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Tennessee | $130,570 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Mississippi | $92,610 | No educational requirements | No exam required | 6-24 months |
| Louisiana | $112,600 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Texas | $133,570 | Degree required | Both state and third-party exams required | 6-24 months |
| Oklahoma | $98,870 | 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 | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Missouri | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Tennessee | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Mississippi | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Louisiana | 56 | Medium | 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
Supreme Court of Arkansas • Arkansas State Board of Law Examiners
2100 Riverfront Drive, Suite 110, Little Rock, AR, 72202-1747
Phone: 5013741855
Related Careers in Arkansas
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Architect | $84,310 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Certified Public Accountant | $64,180 | 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 |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Lawyer 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 is the typical Lawyer salary in Arkansas?
The median annual salary for Lawyers in Arkansas is 86,970. Salaries range from $38,650 (10th percentile) to $209,390 (90th percentile).
How does the Lawyer salary in Arkansas compare to the national average?
Lawyers in Arkansas earn 42% below the national median of $151,160, with a state median of 86,970.
How many Lawyers work in Arkansas?
Arkansas employs approximately 3,500 Lawyers according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Lawyer 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 Lawyers in Arkansas?
The licensing agency is Supreme Court of Arkansas / Arkansas State Board of Law Examiners. Review agency details at https://www.arcourts.gov/administration/professional-programs.