Application Fee
See board websiteVerified by AR Board of Healthcare
Occupational Therapy Assistant Licensing in Arkansas
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for occupational therapy assistant in Arkansas, including See board website and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
Third-party exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Occupational Therapy Assistant in Arkansas
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Varies by state board
- Examination: Third-party exam required
- Application Fee: See board website
- Background Check: Background check required
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Arkansas Department of Health • Arkansas State Medical Board
- Current Filing Fee
See board website
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$77,340 median (13% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#3 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet Arkansas eligibility requirements for Occupational Therapy Assistant licensure.
- 2. Complete approved education or training requirements.
- 3. Pass the required examination: Third-party exam required.
- 4. Submit your application to the Arkansas Department of Health~Arkansas State Medical Board.
Salary Insights in Arkansas
With a median salary of 77,340, Occupational Therapy Assistants in Arkansas earn 13% above the national median of 68340. Arkansas ranks #3 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
$77,340Hourly estimate
$37.1813% above national median
Difference: +$9,000
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationOccupational Therapy Assistant Salary Ranking
#3 of 50 statesfor Occupational Therapy Assistant median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | California | 79,420 |
| #2 | Texas | 77,910 |
| #3 | Arkansas | 77,340 |
| #4 | Maryland | 77,330 |
| #5 | Nevada | 76,450 |
Nearby States Comparison
Occupational Therapy Assistant licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Arkansas | $77,340 | Varies by state board | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Missouri | $62,830 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Tennessee | $62,060 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Mississippi | $62,160 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Louisiana | $65,860 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Texas | $77,910 | Degree required | Both state and third-party exams required | 6-24 months |
| Oklahoma | $68,710 | 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 | 58 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| Missouri | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Tennessee | 64 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Continuing education compliance is 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.
Official Licensing Agency
Arkansas Department of Health • Arkansas State Medical Board
1401 West Capitol Ave., Suite 340, Little Rock, AR, 72201
Phone: 5012961802
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 Occupational Therapy Assistant 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 Occupational Therapy Assistants in Arkansas?
Arkansas lists Third-party exam required as part of the licensure process for Occupational Therapy Assistants.
What is the typical Occupational Therapy Assistant salary in Arkansas?
The median annual salary for Occupational Therapy Assistants in Arkansas is 77,340. Salaries range from 52580 (10th percentile) to 99420 (90th percentile).
How does the Occupational Therapy Assistant salary in Arkansas compare to the national average?
Occupational Therapy Assistants in Arkansas earn 13% above the national median of 68340, with a state median of 77,340.
How many Occupational Therapy Assistants work in Arkansas?
Arkansas employs approximately 620 Occupational Therapy Assistants according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Occupational Therapy Assistant 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.
Who is the licensing agency for Occupational Therapy Assistants in Arkansas?
The licensing agency is Arkansas Department of Health / Arkansas State Medical Board. Review agency details at https://www.armedicalboard.org/.