A Guide to Nursing Licenses and Renewals in Arkansas
📝 Obtaining an Arkansas Nursing License by Examination
Step 1: Complete an Accredited Nursing Program
To be eligible for licensure, you must graduate from an accredited nursing program, such as an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). Accelerated BSN programs are also available for individuals holding a non-nursing bachelor's degree.
Step 2: Apply Through the Arkansas Nurse Portal
Create an account on the Arkansas Nurse Portal and submit your application approximately 60 days before graduation.Required documents include:arsbn.boardsofnursing.org
- Valid Social Security number
- Proof of primary residence
- $100 application fee
- Affidavit of graduation
- Criminal background check informationResearch.com+1SlideServe+1
You may also apply for a temporary permit, valid for 90 days or until NCLEX results are received, for an additional $30 fee.Arkansas Department of Health
Step 3: Submit Official Transcripts
Ensure your nursing program director completes the Affidavit of Graduation and sends it, along with your official transcript, directly to the Arkansas State Board of Nursing. The transcript should include course details, admission and graduation dates, the awarded diploma, and the director's signature or official electronic signature, along with the school seal.
Step 4: Complete a Criminal Background Check
Arkansas requires both state and federal criminal background checks. In-state residents must use Live Scan for digital fingerprints, while out-of-state residents will use the ink-based fingerprint card system. Instructions are provided within the Nurse Portal.
Step 5: Register and Take the NCLEX
Register for the NCLEX through Pearson VUE and pay the $200 fee. Once your application is approved, you'll receive an Authorization to Test (ATT) and can schedule your exam. Passing the NCLEX grants you an Arkansas nursing license. If unsuccessful, you must wait 45 days before retaking the exam.
🔄 Licensing by Endorsement (For Nurses Licensed in Other States)
If you hold an active nursing license from another state, apply for licensure by endorsement through the Arkansas Nurse Portal. Requirements include:arsbn.boardsofnursing.org
- Valid Social Security number
- Proof of primary residence
- $125 application fee
- Verification of original state licensure
- Criminal background check informationArkansas Department of Health+1rnmobility.com+1
Arkansas is a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), allowing nurses with multistate licenses to practice in Arkansas without additional licensure.
🔁 Renewing Your Arkansas Nursing License
Step 1: Determine Your Renewal Period
Arkansas licenses are renewed biennially, with expiration dates aligned to your birth date. Your initial license may be valid for 3 to 27 months, depending on the issuance date. Renewal applications become available 60 days before expiration via the Arkansas Nurse Portal.
Step 2: Fulfill Continuing Education Requirements
To renew your license, you must complete one of the following within the 24 months preceding renewal:
- 15 contact hours of accredited, practice-focused continuing education
- Current national certification or recertification
- Completion of a college credit hour in nursing with a grade of 'C' or betterrnmobility.com
Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs) with prescriptive authority must complete an additional 5 contact hours in pharmacotherapeutics related to their specialty certification. Nurse.org+5Arkansas Department of Health+5Home+5
Step 3: Submit Your Renewal Application
Log in to the Arkansas Nurse Portal to complete your renewal application and pay the applicable fee. Fees are as follows:
- Registered Nurse (RN): $100
- Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN): $90
- Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN): $165 (includes RN renewal fee)Nursing CE Central+3Arkansas Department of Health+3Incredible Health+3Nursing CE Central
Ensure all information is accurate to avoid delays in processing.
💰 Arkansas Nursing Licensing Fees (2025)
| License Type | Application Fee | Renewal Fee | Temporary Permit | Fingerprint Fee |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| RN | $100 | $100 | $30 | $15 |
| LPN | $100 | $90 | $30 | $15 |
| APRN | $125 | $165 | $30 | $15 |
Additional fees may apply for license verification ($30) and late renewals ($100 penalty).
📞 Contacting the Arkansas State Board of Nursing
- Phone: (501) 686-2700
- Email: contact@boardofnursing.arkansas.gov
- Website: https://www.healthy.arkansas.gov/programs-services/topics/arkansas-board-of-nursing
- Address: 1123 S. University Ave., Suite 800, Little Rock, AR 72204rnmobility.com+2Elite Learning+2Incredible Health+2
For current nursing job opportunities in Arkansas, visit Goodwork Job Listings.
