Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Arkansas
Becoming a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Arkansas involves a series of steps including meeting prerequisites, completing state-approved training, passing a competency exam, and obtaining state certification. The process typically takes 8-12 weeks for full-time students, with costs ranging from $800 to $2,500 depending on the chosen training program and additional expenses.
In Arkansas, the career of a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) presents a stable and rewarding opportunity, evidenced by a median annual salary of $48,790 and a projected employment growth of 2.6% by 2034. With 651,400 workers nationally in this role, Arkansas offers promising prospects due to increasing healthcare demands and an aging population. For those considering a career that offers both security and a meaningful personal impact, becoming an LPN in this state is an attractive option.
Arkansas's unique healthcare environment shapes the career path for LPNs distinctly from other states. State-specific regulations and licensing requirements set the framework for practice, while the healthcare system itself is characterized by a mix of urban and rural medical facilities, creating diverse employment opportunities. Major healthcare employers in the region, such as Baptist Health, Mercy, and Arkansas Children's Hospital, are key players in the job market, providing a range of settings from bustling city hospitals to quieter rural clinics.
This guide aims to equip readers with crucial information on becoming a licensed LPN in Arkansas, detailing the necessary steps for certification and what to expect in terms of salary and job market trends. Readers will find specifics on state licensing processes, educational requirements, and tips for navigating the local job market. By presenting these facts, the guide helps prospective nurses make informed decisions about their careers in this field, preparing them for both the rewards and challenges of being an LPN in Arkansas.
Licensing Authority
Arkansas State Board of Nursing
In Arkansas, Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) must complete a state-approved training program, pass a licensing examination, and undergo a background check. They work under the supervision of registered nurses or physicians, providing basic medical and nursing care.
Official Resources
Arkansas Requirements
Training Requirements
- Education
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Total Training Hours
- Not specified hours
- Classroom Hours
- Not specified hours
- Clinical Hours
- Not specified hours
- Minimum Age
- 18 years old
Additional Requirements
- Background check (State and federal) with fingerprinting
- Good moral character verification
Certification Exam
- Exam
- NCLEX-PN
- Components
- Written
- Fee
- $200
How to Become a Licensed Practical Nurse in Arkansas
tuition $500-$2,000, exam fee $100, background check $50, application fee $75, textbooks/supplies $50, scrubs $25
Fastest Path
8 weeks
Typical Timeline
12 weeks
Estimated Cost
$800–$2,500
Verify You Meet Arkansas's Prerequisites
Before pursuing an LPN license in Arkansas, confirm you meet the basic requirements. You must be at least 18 years old, have a high school diploma or GED, and be in good health. Visit the Arkansas State Board of Nursing website to download the checklist of prerequisites and ensure you meet all health, educational, and age requirements. Processing these verifications typically takes 1-2 days.
Tip
Order your high school transcript online through Parchment.com ($15) to avoid a 2-week mail delay from your school's registrar office.
Complete Background Check and Health Screenings
Arkansas requires an FBI fingerprint and state police background check for all LPN applicants. Schedule your fingerprinting appointment via Identogo (https://www.identogo.com/). Also, complete necessary health screenings including a TB test and provide immunization records. These checks and screenings ensure safety for patients and fellow healthcare workers. Results typically take 2-3 weeks to process.
Tip
Schedule your fingerprinting appointment early to avoid delays.
Research and Choose an Approved Training Program
Select a state-approved LPN training program in Arkansas. Visit the Arkansas State Board of Nursing's website to access a list of approved programs. Attending a non-approved program means you cannot sit for the licensure exam, wasting both time and money. Programs vary in length, cost, and format, so choose one that fits your schedule and budget.
Tip
Check for programs that offer financial aid or payment plans if costs are a concern.
Enroll in and Complete Training
Once you've chosen a program, enroll and complete the required training. Arkansas requires specific training hours, but these are not specified in the guide. Training includes both classroom instruction and clinical practice. Ensure your program meets these requirements. Upon completion, you'll receive a certificate necessary for exam registration.
Tip
Keep a record of all coursework and clinical hours in case you need to verify them later.
Prepare for the Competency Exam
Prepare for the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN). Utilize study guides and practice tests available from the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN). Focus on areas covered in the exam, including safe and effective care environments, health promotion and maintenance, and psychosocial integrity.
Tip
Regularly take practice tests to track your progress and identify areas needing improvement.
Register for and Schedule the Exam
Register for the NCLEX-PN through Pearson VUE. Create an account at https://www.pearsonvue.com/nclex, pay the exam fee, and schedule your test date. The fee for the exam is typically around $200. Choose a test center that is convenient for you. Ensure you have all required identification and confirmation of your training program's completion on test day.
Tip
Schedule your exam immediately after completing your training to ensure all material is fresh.
Take and Pass the Exam
On the day of the exam, arrive early at the designated testing center. The NCLEX-PN consists of 85 to 205 questions and must be completed within 5 hours. It covers various areas of nursing knowledge. If you fail, you can reschedule after 45 days. Passing the exam is crucial for moving forward in the licensing process.
Tip
Ensure a good night's sleep before the exam and arrive early to avoid any last-minute stress.
Apply for State Certification/Registry
After passing the NCLEX-PN, apply for your LPN license through the Arkansas State Board of Nursing. Complete the application form available at https://www.arsbn.org/, submit it along with the required fee of $75, and include proof of passing the NCLEX-PN. Processing typically takes 2-4 weeks. Once processed, your license will be issued.
Tip
Double-check your application for any errors to avoid delays in processing.
Receive Your Certification and Verify on State Registry
Once your application is approved and you receive your LPN license, verify your status on the Arkansas Nurse Registry. This confirmation is necessary for employers to validate your credentials. You can check your license status at https://www.arsbn.org/verification. This step is crucial for beginning your career as an LPN.
Tip
Regularly check the registry to ensure your information is up-to-date and correct.
Find Your First Job
Start your job search by visiting online job boards like Indeed or Monster, and filter for LPN positions in Arkansas. Consider also visiting local hospitals and clinics to inquire about job openings or attending job fairs. Networking with fellow nursing professionals and joining relevant associations can also help in your job search.
Tip
Tailor your resume to highlight specific skills and experiences relevant to the positions you are applying for.
Alternative Training Paths
Employer-Sponsored Training at Nursing Homes
Some nursing homes in Arkansas offer employer-sponsored LPN training programs. These programs sometimes cover tuition costs in exchange for a commitment to work at the facility for a specified period post-graduation. This path can be financially advantageous but often comes with an employment contract.
Best for: Individuals looking to reduce educational expenses
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- •Attending a training program not on the Arkansas Board of Nursing approved list. You will complete the program but be unable to sit for the state competency exam, wasting both your time and tuition money.
What to Expect on Exam Day
NCLEX-PN Examination administered by Pearson VUE
Written Test
Questions: 85 to 205
Time Limit: 5 hours
Format: Multiple choice, select all that apply, drag-and-drop, hotspot
Passing Score: Varies based on the adaptive testing algorithm
- • Safe and Effective Care Environment: 23-31%
- • Health Promotion and Maintenance: 6-12%
- • Psychosocial Integrity: 9-15%
- • Physiological Integrity: 39-49%
Skills Test
Skills Tested: N/A
Time Per Skill: N/A
The NCLEX-PN does not include a separate skills test; all assessments are integrated into the computerized adaptive testing format.
What to Bring
- ✓ Authorization to Test (ATT) email
- ✓ Acceptable form of identification (e.g., passport, driver's license)
Do Not Bring
- ✗ Personal items such as bags, books, notes, phones, watches
- ✗ Food or drink
Day-of Timeline
Arrive 30 minutes early. Check-in takes about 15 minutes. Written test up to 5 hours.
Getting Your Results
Results are typically available within 6 weeks via the Arkansas State Board of Nursing online portal or by mail.
If You Don't Pass
You can retake the exam after 45 days. The cost of a retake is the same as the initial test fee. There is no limit on the number of attempts in Arkansas.
Exam Strategies
- 1. Prioritize studying areas with the highest percentage of questions.
- 2. Use the process of elimination in multiple-choice questions to narrow down answers.
- 3. Practice time management to ensure completion of all questions within the allotted time.
- 4. Familiarize yourself with the computerized test format through online practice exams.
Document Checklist
Every document you need from start to finish
1Before Training
High School Diploma or GED
High School or Educational Testing Service · Varies · Varies
Original or certified copy required.
Criminal Background Check
Arkansas State Police · Approximately $22 · 2-3 weeks
Mandatory for all healthcare workers in Arkansas.
Proof of Immunizations
Personal physician or local health department · Varies · Depends on healthcare provider
Includes MMR, Varicella, Hepatitis B, and TB test.
CPR Certification
American Heart Association or American Red Cross · Approximately $50-$100 · 1 day for courses
Must be Healthcare Provider level.
Application for LPN Training Program
Nursing school or program website · Varies by institution · Immediate upon completion
Some schools may require additional entrance exams or essays.
2During Training
Transcripts
From LPN training program · May have fees for official transcripts · 1-2 weeks
Needed for licensure application.
Clinical Hour Documentation
LPN training program · No additional cost · At end of training
Verification of completed clinical hours is required.
3For the Exam
NCLEX-PN Registration
Pearson Vue website · Registration fee approximately $200
Registration must be completed to schedule the exam.
Authorization to Test (ATT)
Received via email after registering for NCLEX-PN · Included in exam registration fee
Valid for a limited time, typically 90 days.
Photo ID
State or federal government · Cost of obtaining ID if not already possessed
Must be valid and government-issued for exam entry.
4For Certification
Passed NCLEX-PN Exam Results
Pearson Vue · Included in exam fee
Official results sent to the Arkansas State Board of Nursing.
LPN License Application
Arkansas State Board of Nursing · Application fee approximately $75-$150
Must be submitted with proof of passing NCLEX-PN.
License Fee Payment
Arkansas State Board of Nursing · Varies, check current rates
Required to issue the license after application approval.
After You're Certified: What's Next
Verify your status on the Arkansas State Board of Nursing registry. Obtain your LPN certificate and ensure all your documentation is in order.
Finding Your First Job
Where to Look
- • Arkansas State Board of Nursing job board, Indeed, Glassdoor, LinkedIn, and local hospital websites
Best Employers for New Grads
- • Hospitals, long-term care facilities, rehabilitation centers, and private clinics. Hospitals offer structured environments with potential for varied experiences, while long-term care facilities provide more consistent patient interactions and potentially more predictable schedules.
Resume Tip: Include clinical rotations and any specialized skills like phlebotomy or EKG. Highlight soft skills such as communication and empathy. List any certifications like CPR.
Interview Tip: Describe a time you handled a stressful situation.How do you manage your time during a busy shift?Provide an example of how you've demonstrated empathy in a care setting.
Expected First-Year Salary
Typically between $35,000 and $45,000, depending on the facility and location within Arkansas.
Career Advancement Path
Registered Nurse (RN)
Complete an accredited RN program and pass the NCLEX-RN exam.
Challenges to Prepare For
- • Adjusting to shift work and managing time effectively. Building resilience and coping strategies for emotional and physical stress is crucial.
Licensed Practical Nurse Salary in Arkansas
In Arkansas, Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) earn a median annual salary of $48,790, which is significantly below the national median. Hourly, this translates to $23.46.
Entry Level
$45,670
0-1 years experience
Median Salary
$48,790
$23.46/hr · Bureau of Labor Statistics
Experienced
$55,000
5+ years experience
Compared to National Median
$59,730 national · -18.3% in Arkansas
Salary by Metro Area
Slightly above the state median
Salary by Employer Type
Despite lower salaries compared to the national average, Arkansas's lower cost of living can make these wages more manageable.
Benefits & Compensation
Common benefits include health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off.
Salary Growth Outlook
Salary growth for LPNs in Arkansas is expected to be steady due to increasing demand in healthcare services.
Salary Negotiation Tips
- •Research average salaries for similar roles in Arkansas.
- •Consider the total compensation package including benefits and perks.
Job Market in Arkansas
In Arkansas, the Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) job market is set to experience moderate growth, aligning with the national growth rate of 2.6% from 2024 to 2034. Factors propelling demand include an aging population and an expanding healthcare sector, particularly in rural areas where access to medical professionals is limited. The state's focus on healthcare accessibility and preventative services further stimulates job growth for LPNs.
Top Hiring Areas
Capital city with major hospitals and clinics
Growing healthcare facilities and senior care centers
Top Hiring Industries
Best time to apply: Early spring and late fall, aligning with hiring cycles of major healthcare providers
Opportunities
- Specialization in geriatric care
- Further education and training for advanced nursing roles
Challenges
- Competition with neighboring states offering higher wages
- Limited professional advancement opportunities within the state
Training Programs in Arkansas
Arkansas offers a variety of LPN training programs across community colleges, vocational schools, and employer-sponsored settings. These programs are designed to prepare students for the NCLEX-PN exam and a career in nursing.
Program Types Comparison
| Type | Duration | Cost | Format | Pros / Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Community College | 12 to 18 months | $5,000 to $15,000 | In-person/Hybrid |
|
| Vocational/Trade School | 9 to 12 months | $10,000 to $20,000 | In-person/Hybrid |
|
| Employer-Sponsored | Varies | Free/Paid training | On-the-job |
|
Top Programs
Beebe, Arkansas
High NCLEX pass rates and affordable tuition
McGehee, Arkansas
Strong clinical partnerships in the region
Online & Hybrid Options
Some programs offer hybrid formats combining online theory courses with in-person clinical practice.
How to Choose a Program
- •Verify the program's state approval and NCLEX-PN pass rates to ensure quality education.
Financial Aid & Free Training
Get free Licensed Practical Nurse program info for Arkansas
Renewal Requirements
Renewal Period
Every 2 years
Renewal Fee
$90
CE Hours
Not specified hours
Work requirement: None specified
CE Topics: Not specified
Out-of-State Reciprocity
Arkansas processes endorsements for Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) from other states through the Arkansas State Board of Nursing. This allows LPNs licensed in other states to receive an Arkansas license based on their existing credentials.
Requirements for Reciprocity
- Active LPN license in another state with no disciplinary actions
- Completion of a state-approved LPN program equivalent to Arkansas standards
- Passing score on the NCLEX-PN or SBTPE if initially licensed before April 1, 1994
State Agreements
Arkansas does not have specific reciprocity agreements but offers endorsement for all states provided the requirements are met.
Additional Exams
No additional exams are required if the applicant has passed the NCLEX-PN or SBTPE and meets other endorsement criteria.
Application Process
Submit an application for licensure by endorsement online or via mail, provide verification of original state licensure, submit official transcripts from nursing school, complete a criminal background check, and pay applicable fees.
Fees
Application fee of $75, Criminal Background Check fee of $37.25
Processing Time: Typically takes 6 to 8 weeks for processing, depending on completeness of application and response times from other states or institutions for verification.
Licensing Tips
Ensure all documents and fees are submitted together to avoid delays.
Check the Arkansas State Board of Nursing website regularly for updates on licensing requirements and processing times.
Recommended Resources
NCLEX-PN Prep Plus by Kaplan
Offers a detailed review of subjects plus practice questions reflecting the latest NCLEX-PN blueprint.
Saunders Comprehensive Review for the NCLEX-PN Examination
Provides a comprehensive review of all nursing content areas and includes over 4,500 practice questions.
LPN Notes: Nurse's Clinical Pocket Guide
A pocket-sized guide that provides quick access to essential information needed for LPN training.
Davis's Drug Guide for Nurses
Offers up-to-date information on over 5,000 medications and practical advice on nursing responsibilities.
Littmann Classic III Stethoscope
A stethoscope is essential for assessing patient health and listening to heart, lung, and other body sounds.
Nursing Scrubs
Scrubs are required attire for practical nursing students during clinical rotations for hygiene and uniformity.
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Sources
- Bureau of Labor StatisticsAccessed 2026-02-07
- Arkansas Licensing BoardAccessed 2026-02-07
- CareerOneStopAccessed 2026-02-07