LicenseCompass

Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) License in Arkansas

Quick Answer

To become an LPN in Arkansas, complete high school and an approved LPN program, pass the NCLEX-PN ($100 license fee + ~$200 NCLEX fee), and clear a background check. Renewal $90 every 2 years — approximately $420 total to start.

Exam
NCLEX-PN
Total Cost
$420 (est.)
Timeline
12-18 months
Background Check
Required
Renewal
Every 2 years

Requirements

Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) license in Arkansas

gold
Education
Degree required
Exam
Third-party exam required
Background Check
Background check required
Continuing Education
Continuing education required to maintain license
Veterans Benefits
A temporary license is available to military and spouses until formal license approval

Estimated Costs Est.

Application Fee
$100
Renewal Fee
$90
Total Estimated Cost
$420

Licensing Agency

Arkansas Department of Health~Arkansas State Board of Nursing

Cost Breakdown

Estimated costs for getting your Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) license in Arkansas. Values marked "Est." are extracted from official descriptions.

Enter the cost of your pre-licensing education program

$
Application FeeEst.$100
Total Estimated Cost$100

Fees marked "Est." are extracted from official descriptions and may not reflect current pricing. Verify with the Arkansas licensing board.

Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Salary in Arkansas

Entry Level

$38,700

Median

$51,030

Experienced

$63,370

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics. Salary data is for informational purposes only.

How to Get Licensed

Step-by-step roadmap to becoming a licensed Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Arkansas.

  1. 1

    Complete Education Requirements

    Degree required

  2. 2

    Submit Background Check

    Background check required

  3. 3

    Pass the Required Exam

    Third-party exam required — NCLEX-PN

  4. 4

    Submit Your Application

    File your application with the licensing agency. Application fee: ~$100.

  5. 5

    Receive Your License

    Processing typically takes 12-18 months.

Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Licensing in Arkansas: What to Know

Arkansas has good fee transparency: License by examination $100, License by endorsement $125, Temporary Permit $30, Renewal $90 biennially. Must be of good moral character, complete high school or equivalent, graduate from a state-approved LPN program, pass the NCLEX-PN, and clear a criminal background check. LPNs provide care under supervision of an RN, APRN, dentist, or physician. The Arkansas State Board of Nursing oversees licensing.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) license cost in Arkansas?
The estimated total cost is $420, including application fees, and education costs.
How long does it take to get a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) license in Arkansas?
The process typically takes 12-18 months, depending on education completion and exam scheduling.
What exam do I need for a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) license in Arkansas?
You need to pass the NCLEX-PN. Third-party exam required

Considering another state?

Compare Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) requirements across states.

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Data from CareerOneStop (DOLETA/DEED). Last updated: February 14, 2026.