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 17, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
Third-party exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Licensed Practical Nurse 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 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 Arkansas eligibility requirements for Licensed Practical Nurse 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 Health~Arkansas State Board of Nursing and monitor board communications.
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 Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
SteadyQoQ Employment Change
+1%Average Weekly Wage
$1,118Median 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 | Varies by board |
| Missouri | $59,030 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Tennessee | $54,530 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Mississippi | $48,850 | Degree required | State exam required | Varies by board |
| Louisiana | $53,930 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Texas | $60,150 | Specific course required | Both state and third-party exams required | Varies by board |
| Oklahoma | $55,870 | 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 Health • Arkansas State Board of Nursing
University Tower Building, Suite 800, 1123 South University, Little Rock, AR, 72204
Phone: 5016862700
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| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Acupuncturist | $78,140 | Degree required | 1-5 months |
| Anesthesiologist | N/A | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Athletic Trainer | $53,490 | Degree required | Varies by board |
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FAQ
How long does it take to become a Licensed Practical Nurse 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 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. 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/.
How often do you renew a Licensed Practical Nurse license in Arkansas?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.