Application Fee
See agencyVerified by AR Board of Healthcare
Social Worker Licensing in Arkansas
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for social worker 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 Social Worker 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 Social Work Licensing Board
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$46,210 median (33% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#50 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 46,210, Social Workers in Arkansas earn 33% below the national median of $69,480. Arkansas ranks #50 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$46,210Hourly estimate
$22.2233% below national median
Difference: -$23,270
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationSocial Worker Salary Ranking
#50 of 50 statesfor Social Worker median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | Nevada | 109,220 |
| #2 | Hawaii | 108,780 |
| #3 | Rhode Island | 106,910 |
| #4 | New Hampshire | 104,770 |
| #5 | Oklahoma | 100,150 |
Nearby States Comparison
Social Worker licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Arkansas | $46,210 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Missouri | $52,080 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Tennessee | $52,060 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Mississippi | $89,860 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Louisiana | $64,720 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Texas | $89,520 | Degree required | Both state and third-party exams required | 6-24 months |
| Oklahoma | $100,150 | 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 | 56 | Medium | 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 Social Work Licensing Board
P. O. Box 251965, Little Rock, AR 72225, 5800 West 10th St, Suite 100, Little Rock, AR, 72204
Phone: 5013725071
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 Social Worker 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 Social Workers in Arkansas?
Arkansas lists Third-party exam required as part of the licensure process for Social Workers.
What education do you need to become a Social Worker in Arkansas?
The board typically expects Degree required for Social Worker licensure in Arkansas.
What is the typical Social Worker salary in Arkansas?
The median annual salary for Social Workers in Arkansas is 46,210. Salaries range from $38,800 (10th percentile) to $112,030 (90th percentile).
How does the Social Worker salary in Arkansas compare to the national average?
Social Workers in Arkansas earn 33% below the national median of $69,480, with a state median of 46,210.
How many Social Workers work in Arkansas?
Arkansas employs approximately 680 Social Workers according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Social Worker 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 Social Workers in Arkansas?
The licensing agency is Arkansas Department of Health / Arkansas Social Work Licensing Board. Review agency details at https://www.healthy.arkansas.gov/programs-services/topics/arkansas-social-work-licensing-board.