Certifications & licenses in Arkansas
Compare requirements, salaries, and career paths for 27 professional credentials in AR. Data from BLS OEWS and primary state licensing sources.
What's different about Arkansas
Licensing landscape in Arkansas
As of 2024, cosmetology license renewals require a biennial fee of $100 and must be completed by the licensee's birthday.
Arkansas Department of Health
A bill introduced in January 2025 proposes requiring massage therapists to pass a new state-specific exam for licensure.
Arkansas Legislature
Under Act 135 of 2021, Arkansas offers automatic EMT licensure for uniformed service members, veterans, and their spouses who hold a valid license from another state.
Arkansas Department of Health
As of 2024, residential builders must provide a CPA-compiled report showing a positive net worth to be licensed for projects over $2,000.
Arkansas Contractors Licensing Board
Metro concentration of certified careers
Cost-of-living adjusted earnings in Arkansas
An income of $65,000 in a high-cost state would have the approximate purchasing power of a $56,940 salary in Arkansas.
Regional comparison: Arkansas vs. neighbors
| State | Median annual wage | vs AR |
|---|---|---|
| AR | $31,990 | — |
| MO | $33,298 | +4% vs AR |
| TN | $37,040 | +16% vs AR |
| MS | $32,750 | +2% vs AR |
| LA | $33,470 | +5% vs AR |
| TX | $37,010 | +16% vs AR |
| OK | $34,900 | +9% vs AR |
| State | Required training hours | vs AR |
|---|---|---|
| AR | 500 hours | — |
| MO | 625 hours | +125 hours |
| TN | 650 hours | +150 hours |
| MS | 700 hours | +200 hours |
| LA | 625 hours | +125 hours |
| TX | 500 hours | 0 hours |
| OK | 500 hours | 0 hours |
Healthcare in Arkansas
13 paths| Career | License | Median salary |
|---|---|---|
| Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) | Required | $31,990 |
| Dental Assistant | No | $37,680 |
| EMT | Required | $31,710 |
| Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) | Required | $51,030 |
| Medical Assistant | No | $37,150 |
| Medical Coder | No | $39,920 |
| Paramedic | Required | $31,710 |
| Pharmacy Technician | Required | $37,380 |
| Phlebotomist | No | $36,870 |
| Radiology Technologist | Required | $60,430 |
| Respiratory Therapist | Required | $67,960 |
| Surgical Technologist | No | $53,400 |
| Dental Hygienist | Required | $83,760 |
Trades in Arkansas
8 paths| Career | License | Median salary |
|---|---|---|
| CDL Truck Driver | Required | $49,520 |
| Electrician | Required | $49,420 |
| HVAC Technician | No | $47,240 |
| Plumber | Required | $49,700 |
| Welder | No | $47,100 |
| Barber | Required | $24,700 |
| Cosmetologist | Required | $26,450 |
| Massage Therapist | Required | $31,280 |
Professional in Arkansas
6 paths| Career | License | Median salary |
|---|---|---|
| CPA (Certified Public Accountant) | Required | $64,180 |
| Notary Public | Required | — |
| Paralegal | No | $46,940 |
| Personal Trainer | No | $39,920 |
| Insurance Agent | Required | $51,280 |
| Real Estate Agent | Required | $38,450 |