Cosmetologist / Arkansas
2026 data Arkansas board official source

Arkansas Cosmetologist License Requirements

Compiled from official source data by PlainCredential

Official regulator records behind the requirements, fees, and renewal cycle for this license.

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Provides hair, skin, and nail care services. Required in all 50 states.

What the Arkansas data shows for Cosmetologists

Arkansas sets the entry bar for cosmetologists at 1,146 training hours and a passing score on State Cosmetology Board Exam. A background check is a standard part of the process, and applicants must be 16 or older. The credential is administered under Arkansas's licensing regime, which classifies the training track as "Cosmetology School".

Upfront cost is $60, with renewal running $25 on a 2-year cycle. Expect roughly 2 weeks of processing once a complete application is submitted. Continuing education is not a listed requirement for this profession in Arkansas, so the annualized maintenance burden is lower than in states that mandate ongoing hours.

For cosmetologists, the reciprocity picture is: Varies by state — check with state board.

Licensing Requirements in Arkansas

Education / Training Hours
Cosmetology School
1,146 hours
Exam Requirement
State Cosmetology Board Exam
Required
Initial License Fee
$71
Renewal Fee
$41
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years
Continuing Education
Not required
Criminal History Check
Required
Minimum Age
16 years

Cost & Timeline

Initial License Fee
Application + first-year license
$60
Renewal Fee
Every 2 years
$25
Processing Time
After complete application submitted
2 wks
Continuing Education
Per 2-year renewal cycle
Not required
Compare fees across all states for Cosmetologist →

Compare & Explore

Compare all states for Cosmetologist All Arkansas licenses
Data sources: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice, state licensing boards. Verify current requirements with Arkansas licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Cosmetologist in Arkansas? ▼
Arkansas requires 1146 education/training hours, passing an exam (State Cosmetology Board Exam), and an initial fee of $71. A criminal background check is also required.
How do I get certified as a Cosmetologist in Arkansas? ▼
Arkansas licenses cosmetologists who complete its requirements (1146 education hours) and a passing exam. Verify the latest details with the Arkansas licensing board.
Can I transfer my Cosmetologist license to Arkansas from another state? ▼
For cosmetologists, the reciprocity landscape looks like this: Varies by state — check with state board. Many professions are also covered by interstate licensing compacts that facilitate portability between states. Contact the Arkansas licensing board to confirm how it applies to your specific credential.
Does Arkansas require a background check for Cosmetologist licensing? ▼
A criminal background check is mandatory for cosmetologist licensing in Arkansas. The state licensing board sets the disqualifying-offense criteria and review process.
How much does it cost to get a Cosmetologist license in Arkansas? ▼
The initial licensing fee in Arkansas is $60. The renewal fee is $25 every 2 years. Processing typically takes 2 weeks after submitting your complete application.
How long does Cosmetologist license processing take in Arkansas? ▼
In Arkansas, license processing for cosmetologists typically takes approximately 2 weeks after your complete application is submitted. Processing times may vary based on application volume and completeness of documentation.

Related Guides

Source: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice License to Work (3rd Ed.), state licensing board websites NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice License to Work (3rd Ed.), state licensing board websites

Read our methodology - how this data is sourced, computed, and verified.