Application Fee
See agencyLicensed Professional Counselor Licensing in Arkansas
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for licensed professional counselor in Arkansas, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
Both state and third-party exams requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Licensed Professional Counselor in Arkansas
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Degree required
- Examination: Both state and third-party exams 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 Board of Examiners in Counseling and Marriage & Family Therapy
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$49,990 median (16% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#42 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 49,990, Licensed Professional Counselors in Arkansas earn 16% below the national median of $59,190. Arkansas ranks #42 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$49,990Hourly estimate
$24.03Difference: -$9,200
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationLicensed Professional Counselor Salary Ranking
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | Alaska | 79,220 |
| #2 | New Mexico | 70,770 |
| #3 | Oregon | 69,660 |
| #4 | North Dakota | 66,450 |
| #5 | Utah | 65,920 |
Nearby States Comparison
Licensed Professional Counselor licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Arkansas | $49,990 | Degree required | Both state and third-party exams required | 6-24 months |
| Missouri | $56,640 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Tennessee | $48,170 | Degree required | Both state and third-party exams required | 6-24 months |
| Mississippi | $46,810 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Louisiana | $40,200 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Texas | $60,630 | Degree required | Both state and third-party exams required | 6-24 months |
| Oklahoma | $58,610 | 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 | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Tennessee | 54 | 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 Board of Examiners in Counseling and Marriage & Family Therapy
101 East Capitol, Suite 202, Little Rock, AR, 72201
Phone: 5016835800
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FAQ
How long does it take to become a Licensed Professional Counselor 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 Professional Counselors in Arkansas?
Arkansas lists Both state and third-party exams required as part of the licensure process for Licensed Professional Counselors.
What education do you need to become a Licensed Professional Counselor in Arkansas?
The board typically expects Degree required for Licensed Professional Counselor licensure in Arkansas.
What is the typical Licensed Professional Counselor salary in Arkansas?
The median annual salary for Licensed Professional Counselors in Arkansas is 49,990. Salaries range from $31,600 (10th percentile) to $102,400 (90th percentile).
How does the Licensed Professional Counselor salary in Arkansas compare to the national average?
Licensed Professional Counselors in Arkansas earn 16% below the national median of $59,190, with a state median of 49,990.
How many Licensed Professional Counselors work in Arkansas?
Arkansas employs approximately 2,860 Licensed Professional Counselors according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Licensed Professional Counselor 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 Professional Counselors in Arkansas?
The licensing agency is Arkansas Department of Health / Arkansas Board of Examiners in Counseling and Marriage & Family Therapy. Review agency details at https://www.abec.statesolutions.us/.