Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Arkansas
Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for AR
How to Become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Arkansas
To become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Arkansas, individuals must complete a state-approved practical nursing program, which typically takes 12 to 18 months. After graduation, applicants must pass the NCLEX-PN examination. The application for licensure is submitted through the Arkansas State Board of Nursing, requiring a $100 fee and a state and federal criminal background check. Arkansas participates in the Nurse Licensure Compact, allowing for multi-state licensure, but specific residency rules apply for endorsement applicants.
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Requirements in Arkansas
| Detail | Arkansas |
|---|---|
| Licensing Body | Arkansas State Board of Nursing |
| State License Required | Yes |
| Education | Completion of a state-approved practical nursing program |
| Exam | NCLEX-PN ($200) |
| Application Fee | $100 |
| Renewal | Every 2.0 years |
| Continuing Education | 15.0 hours per cycle |
| Notes | Applicants must be at least 18 years old by the first day of class for the practical nursing program. A state and federal criminal background check is required. A valid United States social security number is required. If an initial license is valid for less than two years, continuing education is not required for the first renewal. Arkansas is a compact state, but if your primary state of residence is another compact state and you hold an active multistate license there, you cannot be issued an Arkansas license. |
Source: Arkansas State Board of Nursing
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Salary in Arkansas
The median licensed practical nurse salary in Arkansas is $51,030 per year, which is 18.1% below the national median of $62,340.
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th (entry level) | $38,700 |
| 25th | $47,210 |
| 50th (median) | $51,030 |
| 75th | $59,410 |
| 90th (experienced) | $63,370 |
Arkansas employs approximately 10,110 licensed practical nurses.
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Job Outlook
AI Impact on Licensed Practical Nurses
Low AI Exposure (Score: -0.51/1.00)
This career has low exposure to AI automation. Most tasks require physical presence, human judgment, or hands-on skills that AI cannot easily replicate.
Is Becoming a Licensed Practical Nurse in Arkansas Worth It?
Factors to consider: Arkansas's cost of living, the state licensing requirement, moderate job growth, low AI disruption risk, and your personal career goals.