Arkansas Contractor Licenses: Updated Requirements Guide
Getting licensed as a contractor in Arkansas is a structured process overseen primarily at the state level. The Arkansas Contractors Licensing Board regulates general, residential, and specialty contractor classifications, while trade licensing for electricians, plumbers, and HVACR contractors is administered by the respective state agencies. Understanding which agency regulates your trade, what exams are required, and how bonding and insurance work is key to getting licensed efficiently.
On this page, you’ll find a comprehensive, up-to-date guide to Arkansas contractor licensing for electricians, plumbers, HVACR contractors, general contractors and residential builders, roofers, and home improvement contractors. You’ll also find clear instructions for the application process, reciprocity with other states, and where local city requirements (like business registration and permits) fit into the picture.
All major contractor and trade licenses in Arkansas are issued at the state level. Many cities—such as Rogers—require contractors to register as a business and obtain permits, but they do not issue separate trade licenses for the major trades. Always verify current requirements with the official agencies listed throughout this guide.
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Overview of Arkansas Contractor Licensing
Arkansas regulates contractor licensing primarily through the Arkansas Contractors Licensing Board (ACLB). The ACLB manages commercial contractor licenses, residential builders, and a broad slate of specialty contractors (including roofing and home improvement). Applicants typically submit a notarized application with references, financials, proof of bond and/or insurance, and—where required—must pass the Arkansas Business and Law exam through PSI before license issuance.
Trade licenses are handled by specific agencies. Electricians are licensed by the Arkansas Department of Labor & Licensing, plumbers by the Arkansas Department of Health (Plumbing & Natural Gas), and HVACR contractors via the state’s HVACR licensing portal. Each trade has distinct experience requirements, exams, and continuing education obligations. This guide consolidates those state requirements in one place to help you plan your path to licensure.
Local jurisdictions do not issue separate trade licenses for electricians, plumbers, or HVACR contractors; however, cities typically require contractors to register a business locally and pull permits for projects. For example, Rogers requires contractor registration at the city level before work begins. Always confirm city-level registration and permit processes in addition to your state license.
Browse all Arkansas contractor license practice tests →
Electrician Licenses in Arkansas
Arkansas regulates electrical work with 5 license types:
Apprentice Electrician
Requirements
- Age: 16+
- Experience: None required to register; must be sponsored by a licensed Arkansas master electrician with sponsorship verified by employer.
- Education: Participate in on-the-job training and related classroom instruction (apprenticeship program).
- Exam: Not required for apprentice registration.
Fees
- Application: $10
- Initial License: $10
- Renewal: $10 (annual)
- Late Penalty: $10
Insurance & Renewal
- Insurance: Not required for apprentices.
- Renewal: Annual; no CE required at the apprentice level.
Source: Electrical Licensing FAQ
Journeyman Electrician
Requirements
- Age: 18+
- Experience: 8,000 hours (4 years) of electrical construction work under supervision; Arkansas apprenticeship completion accepted.
- Documentation: Employer/master electrician affidavits; apprenticeship documentation as applicable.
- Exam: Required; provider: PSI.
Exam Details
- Name: Arkansas Journeyman Electrician Exam
- Format: Closed book, computer-based, multiple choice
- Questions/Time: 80 questions; 4 hours
- Passing Score: 70%
- References: 2020 NEC; NFPA 72; NFPA 70E; Arkansas Electrical Code
- Topics: General Theory; Wiring Methods & Materials; Services; Motors & Controls; Overcurrent Protection; Grounding & Bonding; Special Occupancies
- Retake: 30 days between attempts; new fee applies
Fees
- Application: $25
- Exam: $80
- Initial License: $25
- Renewal: $25 (annual)
- Late Penalty: $10
Insurance & Renewal
- Insurance: Not required for individual journeymen.
- Continuing Education: 8 hours per year (4 code, 4 safety).
Source: Electrical Licensing FAQ
Master Electrician
Requirements
- Age: 18+
- Experience: 2 years as licensed journeyman OR 12,000 hours (6 years) verified experience.
- Documentation: Employer affidavits and/or tax records; Arkansas journeyman license verifiable if applicable.
- Exam: Required; provider: PSI.
Exam Details
- Name: Arkansas Master Electrician Exam
- Format: Closed book, computer-based, multiple choice
- Questions/Time: 100 questions; 4.5 hours
- Passing Score: 70%
- References: 2020 NEC; NFPA 72; NFPA 70E; Arkansas Electrical Code
- Topics: Theory & Calculations; Wiring Methods; Motors/Transformers; Overcurrent Protection; Plan Reading; Supervision/Code Application
- Retake: 30 days between attempts; new fee applies
Fees
- Application: $50
- Exam: $80
- Initial License: $50
- Renewal: $50 (annual)
- Late Penalty: $10
Insurance & Renewal
- Insurance: Not required for individual master license.
- Continuing Education: 8 hours per year (4 code, 4 safety).
Source: Electrical Licensing FAQ
Residential Master Electrician
Requirements
- Age: 18+
- Experience: 2 years as residential journeyman or equivalent residential experience (e.g., 8,000 hours).
- Documentation: Employer affidavit; Arkansas residential journeyman license required.
- Exam: Required; provider: PSI.
Exam Details
- Name: Arkansas Residential Master Electrician Exam
- Format: Closed book, computer-based, multiple choice
- Questions/Time: 80 questions; 3 hours
- Passing Score: 70%
- References: 2020 NEC
- Topics: Residential Wiring Methods; NEC Requirements; Load Calculations; Panel Selection; Grounding
- Retake: 30 days between attempts; new fee applies
Fees
- Application: $50
- Exam: $80
- Initial License: $50
- Renewal: $50 (annual)
- Late Penalty: $10
Insurance & Renewal
- Insurance: Not required for the individual license.
- Continuing Education: 8 hours per year (4 code, 4 safety).
Source: Electrical Licensing FAQ
Master Electrician (Contractor)
Requirements
- Qualifying Individual: Must hold or employ a licensed master electrician; designate the qualifying master on the application.
- Exam: Arkansas Business and Law exam required (PSI).
- Insurance/Bond: $10,000 surety bond required; general liability strongly recommended.
- Age: 18+
Business & Law Exam
- Name: Arkansas Business and Law Exam
- Format: Computer-based, multiple choice, closed book
- Questions/Time: 50 questions; 2 hours
- Passing Score: 70%
- Reference: NASCLA Contractors Guide to Business, Law and Project Management, Arkansas Edition
- Topics: Licensing; Estimating & Bidding; Contracts; Project Management; Safety; Labor Laws; Financial Management
- Retake: May reschedule after a failed attempt; fee applies
Fees
- Application: $100
- Exam: $56
- Initial License: $100
- Renewal: $100 (annual)
- Late Penalty: $50
Renewal
- Annual renewal; the qualifying individual must meet their own CE obligations (e.g., electrician CE).
Sources: ACLB Application & Requirements and Electrical Licensing FAQ
Want more support across electrical classifications? Browse Arkansas contractor license practice tests and study material.
Plumbing Licenses in Arkansas
Arkansas regulates plumbing work with 4 license types:
Apprentice Plumber
Requirements
- Age: 16+
- Experience: Not applicable; must enroll in an Arkansas-approved apprenticeship.
- Documentation: Sponsor (journeyman or master) registers apprentice with the state; annual verification required.
- Exam: Not required for apprentice registration.
Fees
- Application: $25
- Initial License: $25
- Renewal: $25 (annual)
- Late Penalty: $10
Insurance & Renewal
- Insurance: Not required for apprentices.
- Continuing Education: None for apprentice registration.
Sources: Plumbing & Natural Gas Program
Journeyman Plumber
Requirements
- Age: 18+
- Experience: 4 years (8,000 hours) plumbing experience; completion of approved apprenticeship or verified employment record.
- Documentation: Employer affidavits and apprenticeship documentation as applicable.
- Exam: Required; administered by State/PSI.
Exam Details
- Name: Arkansas Journeyman Plumber Exam
- Format: Multiple choice, closed book
- Questions/Time: 80 questions; 4 hours
- Passing Score: 70%
- References: Arkansas Plumbing Code; basic math references
- Topics: Code, Materials & Fittings, Installations, Fixtures, Safety & Sanitation, Blueprint Reading
- Retake: 30 days between attempts; new fee applies
Fees
- Application: $75
- Exam: $75
- Initial License: $75
- Renewal: $75 (annual)
- Late Penalty: $25
Insurance & Renewal
- Insurance: Not required for individual journeymen by the state.
- Continuing Education: 6 hours per year (code and safety).
Sources: Arkansas Plumbing Act; Program Page
Master Plumber
Requirements
- Age: 18+
- Experience: 1 year as an Arkansas journeyman plumber or 5 years verified experience.
- Documentation: Employer affidavits; journeyman license must be verifiable if applying via journeyman path.
- Exam: Required; State/PSI.
Exam Details
- Name: Arkansas Master Plumber Exam
- Format: Multiple choice, closed book
- Questions/Time: 80 questions; 4 hours
- Passing Score: 70%
- Reference: Arkansas Plumbing Code
- Topics: Advanced Code Application; Materials; Design; Gas Piping; Fixtures; Backflow Prevention; Field Supervision
- Retake: 30 days between attempts; new fee applies
Fees
- Application: $125
- Exam: $125
- Initial License: $125
- Renewal: $125 (annual)
- Late Penalty: $25
Insurance & Renewal
- Insurance: Not required for the individual master license.
- Continuing Education: 6 hours/year (code updates and advanced practices).
Sources: Arkansas Plumbing Act
Restricted/Residential Plumber
Requirements
- Age: 18+
- Experience: 2 years of residential plumbing experience.
- Documentation: Employer affidavit required.
- Exam: Required; State/PSI.
Exam Details
- Name: Arkansas Residential Plumber Exam
- Format: Multiple choice, closed book
- Questions/Time: 40 questions; 2 hours
- Passing Score: 70%
- Reference: Arkansas Plumbing Code (residential)
- Topics: Single-family dwelling code; Installations; Safety; Materials
- Retake: 30 days between attempts
Fees
- Application: $75
- Exam: $75
- Initial License: $75
- Renewal: $75 (annual)
- Late Penalty: $10
Insurance & Renewal
- Insurance: Not required for the individual license.
- Continuing Education: 6 hours/year (residential code).
Source: Plumbing & Natural Gas Program
Preparing for an upcoming plumbing exam? Browse Arkansas contractor license practice tests and study material.
HVAC Licenses in Arkansas
Arkansas regulates HVAC contractors with 2 license types:
HVACR Class A License
Scope & Classification
State HVACR Contractor license suitable for broad HVACR work, typically including commercial systems per state rules. Bonding, experience, and exam are required.
Requirements
- Age: 18+
- Experience: 2 years as HVACR journeyman/supervisor or 5 years prior trade experience (verified by affidavit or tax records).
- Exam: Required; provider: PSI.
- Bond/Insurance: $10,000 bond required (Bond/General Liability).
Exam Details
- Name: Arkansas HVACR Class A Exam
- Format: Computer-based, closed book, multiple choice
- Questions/Time: 100 questions; 4 hours
- Passing Score: 70%
- References: IMC; IFGC; Arkansas Mechanical Code; Manufacturer specs
- Topics: System Design; Code Requirements; Safety; Duct Sizing; Refrigeration Piping; Combustion Air; Commissioning
- Retake: 30 days between attempts
Fees
- Application: $200
- Exam: $80
- Initial License: $200
- Renewal: $200 (annual)
- Late Penalty: $50
Renewal & CE
- Continuing Education: 4 hours/year (mechanical code and safety).
Source: Arkansas HVACR License Portal
HVACR Class B License
Scope & Classification
State HVACR Contractor license focused on residential and light commercial systems, with lower bond and fee levels than Class A. Experience and exam are required.
Requirements
- Age: 18+
- Experience:</strong > 2 years HVACR experience (residential/light commercial) or 5 years similar work; employer affidavit required.
- Exam: Required; provider: PSI.
- Bond/Insurance: $5,000 bond required (Bond/General Liability).
Exam Details
- Name: Arkansas HVACR Class B Exam
- Format: Computer-based, closed book, multiple choice
- Questions/Time: 80 questions; 3 hours
- Passing Score: 70%
- References: IMC; IFGC; Arkansas Mechanical Code
- Topics: Residential & Light Commercial Code; Installation Standards; System Sizing; Ventilation
- Retake: 30 days between attempts
Fees
- Application: $150
- Exam: $80
- Initial License: $150
- Renewal: $150 (annual)
- Late Penalty: $40
Renewal & CE
- Continuing Education: 3 hours/year (mechanical code).
Source: Arkansas HVACR License Portal
For more HVACR study resources across Class A and B, browse Arkansas contractor license practice tests and study material.
📍 City Registration and Permits in Arkansas
While major trade licenses are issued at the state level, many Arkansas cities require contractors to register their business locally and obtain permits for projects. This is not a separate trade license but is often necessary to pull permits and pass inspections.
Major Cities with Local Requirements:
- City of Rogers: Contractor registration required with the city prior to performing work; coordinate with the building department for permits and inspections. Rogers Contractor Licensing Requirements
Note: Requirements vary by jurisdiction. Always check with your local building department for current registration and permit procedures.
General Contractor Licenses in Arkansas
Arkansas regulates general contractors with 2 license types:
Commercial Contractor License
Requirements
- Experience: Demonstrated commercial construction experience (hours not specified).
- References: Three written references verifying comparable work experience.
- Exam: Arkansas Business and Law exam required (PSI).
- Bond: $10,000 contractor’s bond required.
- Age: 18+
Business & Law Exam
- Format: Computer-based, closed book, multiple choice
- Questions/Time: 50 questions; 2 hours
- Passing Score: 70%
- Reference: NASCLA Contractors Guide to Business, Law and Project Management, Arkansas Edition
- Topics: Business Organization; Estimating & Bidding; Contracts; Project Management; Safety; Labor Laws
- Retake: May reschedule after failure; new payment required
Fees
- Application: $100
- Exam: $56
- Initial License: $100
- Renewal: $100 (annual)
- Late Penalty: $50
Renewal
- Annual renewal. CE is not specified by the Board for this classification.
Source: ACLB Application & Requirements
Residential Builders License
Requirements
- Experience: Relevant residential building experience (hours not specified).
- References: Three written references verifying residential construction experience.
- Exam: Arkansas Business and Law exam required (PSI).
- Bond: $10,000 contractor’s bond required.
- Age: 18+
Business & Law Exam
- Format: Computer-based, closed book, multiple choice
- Questions/Time: 50 questions; 2 hours
- Passing Score: 70%
- Reference: NASCLA Contractors Guide to Business, Law and Project Management, Arkansas Edition
- Topics: Licensing Requirements; Business Operation; Estimating & Bidding; Contracts
- Retake: May reschedule; new payment required
Fees
- Application: $100
- Exam: $56
- Initial License: $100
- Renewal: $100 (annual)
- Late Penalty: $50
Renewal
- Annual renewal. CE is not specified by the Board for this classification.
Source: ACLB Application & Requirements
Need a quick refresher for the Business & Law exam? Browse Arkansas contractor license practice tests and study material.
Roofing Licenses in Arkansas
Arkansas regulates roofing contractors with 1 license type:
Roofing Contractor (Residential or Commercial)
Requirements
- Classification: Specialty Contractor
- Experience: Demonstrable roofing experience; references required.
- Exam: Arkansas Business and Law exam required if contracting directly (PSI).
- Bond: $10,000 bond required.
- Age: 18+
Business & Law Exam
- Format: Computer-based, closed book, multiple choice
- Questions/Time: 50 questions; 2 hours
- Passing Score: 70%
- Reference: NASCLA Contractors Guide to Business, Law and Project Management, Arkansas Edition
- Topics: Business Law; Contracts; Bidding; Safety
- Retake: Reschedule after waiting period; new fee applies
Fees
- Application: $100
- Exam: $56
- Initial License: $100
- Renewal: $100 (annual)
- Late Penalty: $50
Renewal
- Annual renewal; CE not specified by the Board for roofing classification.
Source: ACLB Application & Requirements
Specialty Trade Licenses in Arkansas
Arkansas regulates specialty trades with 1 license type:
Home Improvement Contractor
Requirements
- Classification: Specialty Contractor
- Experience: Not specified by hours; evidence of prior work and references required.
- Exam: Arkansas Business and Law exam required (PSI).
- Bond: $5,000 bond required.
- Age: 18+
Business & Law Exam
- Format: Computer-based, closed book
- Questions/Time: 50 questions; 2 hours
- Passing Score: 70%
- Reference: NASCLA Contractors Guide to Business, Law and Project Management, Arkansas Edition
- Topics: Licensing; Bidding; Contracts
- Retake: May reschedule; new fee applies
Fees
- Application: $50
- Exam: $56
- Initial License: $50
- Renewal: $50 (annual)
- Late Penalty: $25
Renewal
- Annual renewal; CE not specified by the Board for this classification.
Source: ACLB Application & Requirements
Application Process
- Determine correct license classification for trade and project type.
- Download and complete the license application form from the Licensing Board website.
- Collect required supporting documents (references, experience affidavits, financial statements, insurance, bond).
- Register and pass Arkansas Business and Law exam (where required) through PSI.
- Submit application package with fees to the Arkansas Contractors Licensing Board.
- Await Board review and approval (can take 2–6 weeks).
- Receive license by mail (or notification for additional requirements or corrections).
Timeline: 2–6 weeks from complete application submission to license approval, depending on classification and Board schedule.
Online Application: Available at ACLB Apply/Registration.
What You’ll Typically Submit
- Completed, notarized application form
- Experience affidavits or employer references (three written references for contractor/builder/specialty)
- Financial statement
- Proof of passing any required exam(s)
- Proof of bond and/or insurance as required for your classification
- Valid state/government ID
Processing Notes: The Board meets monthly; incomplete or non-notarized applications are delayed. Temporary licenses may be available for out-of-state contractors upon request to the Board.
Reciprocity
Arkansas has reciprocity with: Alabama, Louisiana, Mississippi, Tennessee, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina.
Requirements: Hold an active license in good standing from a reciprocal state, provide verification from that state’s licensing board, and pass the Arkansas Business and Law exam. Some reciprocity agreements apply only to specific classifications (e.g., commercial or specialty). All applicants must still submit an application and pay fees. See: ACLB Reciprocity.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get a contractor license in Arkansas?
Expect 2–6 weeks from the time you submit a complete application until approval, depending on classification and the Board’s meeting schedule.
Do Arkansas cities issue separate trade licenses?
No. Arkansas issues major trade licenses (electrician, plumbing, HVACR) at the state level. Many cities, however, require contractors to register their business locally and obtain permits before work begins (for example, Rogers contractor registration).
Can I transfer my license from another state to Arkansas?
Arkansas maintains reciprocity with Alabama, Louisiana, Mississippi, Tennessee, Georgia, North Carolina, and South Carolina. You must hold an active license in good standing, obtain verification from that state, and pass the Arkansas Business and Law exam. Reciprocity may be limited by classification.
What happens if I fail the exam?
Most Arkansas trade exams (electrician, plumbing, HVACR) require a 30-day waiting period between attempts; a new exam fee applies. The Arkansas Business and Law exam can be rescheduled after failure; a new payment is required. Always confirm the current retake policy with PSI or the administering agency.
Do I need insurance or a bond?
Yes, most contractor classifications require a bond. For example, commercial contractors and residential builders require a $10,000 bond, roofing contractors require a $10,000 bond, and home improvement contractors require a $5,000 bond. Electrician, plumber, and HVACR individual licenses generally do not require personal liability insurance, but HVACR and electrical contractor entities must meet bond requirements. Verify the exact bonding for your classification with the Board or relevant agency.
How often do licenses renew? Is CE required?
Arkansas licenses generally renew annually. CE varies by trade: electricians (8 hours/year: 4 code, 4 safety), plumbers (6 hours/year), HVACR contractors (3–4 hours/year depending on class). The Board does not specify CE for commercial contractors, residential builders, roofing specialty, or home improvement specialty.
Where can I find practice tests for Arkansas exams?
We offer comprehensive PDF practice tests for Arkansas contractor and trade exams. Each resource typically contains 1,500–2,500 code-relevant questions, complete answer keys, and reference locators pointing to exact code sections, and you can study offline at your own pace with no time or use limits. Browse Arkansas contractor practice tests.
I’m not sure which license I need. Who can I call?
Start with the Arkansas Contractors Licensing Board at 501-372-4661 or visit the ACLB website. For electrical licensing questions, consult the Electrical Licensing FAQ. For plumbing, contact the Arkansas Department of Health Plumbing & Natural Gas program. For HVACR, use the state HVACR portal.
Do I have to pass a trade exam for roofing or home improvement?
Arkansas requires the Business and Law exam for roofing and home improvement contractor licensing. There is not a separate roofing-specific or home-improvement-specific trade exam in the state data provided here; confirm current requirements with the Board before applying.
Any study resources for the Business & Law exam?
Yes. Our PDF study materials cover Arkansas Business & Law topics aligned to the NASCLA Arkansas guide with 1,500–2,500 questions, detailed answer keys, and code-reference locators. Browse Arkansas contractor license practice tests and study material.
Arkansas · Practice tests
Arkansas contractor license practice tests
The Arkansas practice tests we publish today: comprehensive PDF guides, typically 1,500 to 2,500 questions each, with full answer keys and reference locators to the exact code sections. We add new tests regularly, so if your license isn’t listed here, contact us and we’ll build it.
- Arkansas Electrical Heating and AC Installation Contractor License Practice Test
- Arkansas Journeyman Electrician License Practice Test
- Arkansas Master Electrician License Practice Test
- Arkansas Master Sign Electrician License Practice Test
- Arkansas Parking Lot Lighting Endorsement Practice Test
- Arkansas Residential Journeyman Electrician License Practice Test
- Arkansas Residential Master Electrician License Practice Test
- Business, Law, and Project Management (NASCLA) Reference Practice Test
- Installing Hardwood Flooring NOFMA - Reference Practice Test
- National Electrical Code (NEC) 2017 Practice Test
Official Sources & References
Official Sources:
- Arkansas Contractors Licensing Board – Main Page
https://labor.arkansas.gov/licensing/arkansas-contractors-licensing-board/
Official Board Site | Accessed: 2025-10-31 - Arkansas Contractors Licensing Board – Apply/Registration
https://labor.arkansas.gov/licensing/arkansas-contractors-licensing-board/apply-for-contractors-license-registration/
Official Board Site | Accessed: 2025-10-31 - Arkansas Department of Labor & Licensing – Electrical Licensing FAQ
https://labor.arkansas.gov/labor/code-enforcement/electrical-inspection-and-licensing/
Official Board Site | Accessed: 2025-10-31 - Arkansas Department of Health – Plumbing and Natural Gas
https://www.healthy.arkansas.gov/programs-services/topics/plumbing-and-natural-gas
Official Board Site | Accessed: 2025-10-31 - Arkansas Plumbing Act (Statute)
https://healthy.arkansas.gov/wp-content/uploads/PLUMBING_LAW_2022.pdf
State Statute | Accessed: 2025-10-31 - Arkansas HVACR Contractor License Portal
https://labor.arkansas.gov/labor/code-enforcement/hvac-r/
Official Board Site | Accessed: 2025-10-31 - Rogers, Arkansas – Contractor Licensing Requirements
https://www.rogersar.gov/1501/Contractor-Licensing-Requirements
City Building Department | Accessed: 2025-10-31 - Arkansas Contractors Licensing Board – Reciprocity Info
https://labor.arkansas.gov/licensing/arkansas-contractors-licensing-board/reciprocity/
Official Board Site | Accessed: 2025-10-31
⚠️ Important Disclaimer
Information Currency: This guide reflects licensing information as available in 2025. Licensing requirements are subject to change without notice. Always verify current requirements with official sources.
Official Source: For current information, contact Arkansas Contractors Licensing Board:
- Website: https://labor.arkansas.gov/licensing/arkansas-contractors-licensing-board/
- Phone: 501-372-4661
No Legal Advice: This guide provides general information only. Consult with the licensing board or a qualified professional for guidance specific to your situation.
Local Requirements: Arkansas cities commonly require local business registration and building permits even when the state issues the trade license. Always confirm with your local building department before starting work.
