Application Fee
See agencyVerified by AR Board of Healthcare
EMT/Paramedic Licensing in Arkansas
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for emt/paramedic 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 EMT/Paramedic in Arkansas
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Specific course 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 • Emergency Medical Services • State Board of Health
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$45,710 median (22% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#49 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 45,710, EMT/Paramedics in Arkansas earn 22% below the national median of $58,410. Arkansas ranks #49 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$45,710Hourly estimate
$21.9822% below national median
Difference: -$12,700
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationEMT/Paramedic Salary Ranking
#49 of 50 statesfor EMT/Paramedic median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | Washington | 100,780 |
| #2 | New Jersey | 80,100 |
| #3 | Connecticut | 75,400 |
| #4 | Oregon | 73,380 |
| #5 | California | 72,180 |
Nearby States Comparison
EMT/Paramedic licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Arkansas | $45,710 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Missouri | $55,600 | Degree required | Both state and third-party exams required | 6-24 months |
| Tennessee | $52,860 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Mississippi | $51,290 | No educational requirements | No exam required | 6-24 months |
| Louisiana | $50,800 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Texas | $53,960 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Oklahoma | $47,890 | Specific course 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 | 62 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| 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 | 54 | 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 • Emergency Medical Services • State Board of Health
5800 West 10th Street, Suite 800, Little Rock, AR, 72204
Phone: 5016612262
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 EMT/Paramedic 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 EMT/Paramedics in Arkansas?
Arkansas lists Third-party exam required as part of the licensure process for EMT/Paramedics.
What education do you need to become a EMT/Paramedic in Arkansas?
The board typically expects Specific course required for EMT/Paramedic licensure in Arkansas.
What is the typical EMT/Paramedic salary in Arkansas?
The median annual salary for EMT/Paramedics in Arkansas is 45,710. Salaries range from $37,660 (10th percentile) to $70,260 (90th percentile).
How does the EMT/Paramedic salary in Arkansas compare to the national average?
EMT/Paramedics in Arkansas earn 22% below the national median of $58,410, with a state median of 45,710.
How many EMT/Paramedics work in Arkansas?
Arkansas employs approximately 1,070 EMT/Paramedics according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my EMT/Paramedic 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 EMT/Paramedics in Arkansas?
The licensing agency is Arkansas Department of Health / Emergency Medical Services / State Board of Health. Review agency details at https://www.healthy.arkansas.gov/programs-services/topics/emergency-medical-services.