Application Fee
See agencyVerified by AR Board of Healthcare
Licensed Practical Nurse Licensing in Arkansas
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for licensed practical nurse 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 Licensed Practical Nurse 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: Background check required
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Arkansas Department of Health • Arkansas State Board of Nursing
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$51,030 median (18% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#46 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 51,030, Licensed Practical Nurses in Arkansas earn 18% below the national median of $62,340. Arkansas ranks #46 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$51,030Hourly estimate
$24.5318% below national median
Difference: -$11,310
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationLicensed Practical Nurse Salary Ranking
#46 of 50 statesfor Licensed Practical Nurse median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | Washington | 79,700 |
| #2 | Rhode Island | 77,940 |
| #3 | Alaska | 77,670 |
| #4 | California | 77,170 |
| #5 | Oregon | 76,570 |
Nearby States Comparison
Licensed Practical Nurse licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Arkansas | $51,030 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Missouri | $59,030 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Tennessee | $54,530 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Mississippi | $48,850 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Louisiana | $53,930 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Texas | $60,150 | Specific course required | Both state and third-party exams required | 6-24 months |
| Oklahoma | $55,870 | 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 | 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 | 54 | 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 Nursing
University Tower Building, Suite 800, 1123 South University, Little Rock, AR, 72204
Phone: 5016862700
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 Licensed Practical Nurse 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 Licensed Practical Nurses in Arkansas?
Arkansas lists Third-party exam required as part of the licensure process for Licensed Practical Nurses.
What education do you need to become a Licensed Practical Nurse in Arkansas?
The board typically expects Degree required for Licensed Practical Nurse licensure in Arkansas.
What is the typical Licensed Practical Nurse salary in Arkansas?
The median annual salary for Licensed Practical Nurses in Arkansas is 51,030. Salaries range from $38,700 (10th percentile) to $63,370 (90th percentile).
How does the Licensed Practical Nurse salary in Arkansas compare to the national average?
Licensed Practical Nurses in Arkansas earn 18% below the national median of $62,340, with a state median of 51,030.
How many Licensed Practical Nurses work in Arkansas?
Arkansas employs approximately 10,110 Licensed Practical Nurses according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Licensed Practical Nurse 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 Licensed Practical Nurses in Arkansas?
The licensing agency is Arkansas Department of Health / Arkansas State Board of Nursing. Review agency details at https://www.arsbn.org/.