How to get your RN license in Arkansas

Getting licensed in Arkansas at a glance

Steps to get licensed in Arkansas

1. 1Graduate from a state-approved RN nursing program (ADN or BSN).
2. 2Apply for licensure by examination through the Arkansas State Board of Nursing and pay the $100 application fee.
3. 3Register for the NCLEX-RN with Pearson VUE and pay the $200 exam fee.
4. 4Complete the required fingerprint-based criminal background check.
5. 5Receive your Authorization to Test (ATT), then schedule and pass the NCLEX-RN.
6. 6Apply for a temporary/graduate-nurse permit if you need to work before the permanent license issues.
7. 7The Arkansas State Board of Nursing issues your RN license once the exam and background check clear.

Start at the source: Arkansas State Board of Nursing. Already licensed elsewhere and moving to Arkansas? See licensure by endorsement instead.

Arkansas RN licensing FAQ

Does Arkansas require fingerprinting or a background check for a nursing license?

Yes. Arkansas requires a fingerprint-based criminal background check to get an initial RN license. Arkansas law (ACA §17-87-312) requires a state and national criminal background check conducted via fingerprints (electronic LiveScan for Arkansas residents; a pre-stamped ink fingerprint card mailed to out-of-state applicants), checked against Arkansas State Police and FBI records.

How much does the Arkansas RN license application cost?

The initial Arkansas RN license-by-examination application fee is $100. This is separate from the NCLEX-RN exam fee ($200 to Pearson VUE) and any fingerprint/background-check vendor fee. Confirm the current amount on the Arkansas State Board of Nursing portal before you pay.

Can I work in Arkansas before my RN license is issued?

Arkansas issues a temporary/graduate-nurse permit so you can work under supervision while your license is pending. ASBN issues a temporary permit (fee $30) to practice while awaiting NCLEX results, valid for 90 days or until notification of first exam results, whichever occurs first, requiring registration with Pearson VUE and a clear background check. Confirm the exact conditions with the Arkansas State Board of Nursing.

How do I apply for my first RN license in Arkansas?

Graduate from an approved nursing program, register for the NCLEX-RN with Pearson VUE, apply for licensure by examination through the Arkansas State Board of Nursing, complete the required background check, then pass the NCLEX-RN. The board issues your license once every requirement clears.

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