Paramedic / Arkansas
2026 data Arkansas board official source

Arkansas Paramedic License Requirements

Requirements, fees, and renewal timing for this license, sourced from state board records.

Provides advanced emergency medical care in the field.

What the Arkansas data shows for Paramedics

Becoming a licensed paramedic in Arkansas means clearing a defined set of hurdles: 1,395 training hours, a passing score on NREMT Paramedic Exam, plus a background history check once the applicant turns 18. Arkansas regulators place this credential inside their licensing framework, which classifies the training track as "Paramedic Training Program".

Upfront cost is $99, with renewal running $86 on a 2-year cycle. Maintaining the license requires 72 hours of continuing education per 2-year cycle, an ongoing cost applicants often underestimate when budgeting the career.

Reciprocity for this profession works like this: Interstate EMS Compact: 30+ states.

Licensing Requirements in Arkansas

Education / Training Hours
Paramedic Training Program
1,395 hours
Exam Requirement
NREMT Paramedic Exam
Required
Initial License Fee
$99
Renewal Fee
$86
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years
Continuing Education
72 hrs/cycle
Criminal History Check
Required
Minimum Age
18 years
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 Paramedic in Arkansas?
Arkansas's requirements cover 1395 hours of education or training, the NREMT Paramedic Exam exam, and an initial fee of $99. Applicants also go through a criminal background check.
How do I get certified as a Paramedic in Arkansas?
Arkansas licenses paramedics who complete its requirements (1395 education hours) and a passing exam. Verify the latest details with the Arkansas licensing board.
Can I transfer my Paramedic license to Arkansas from another state?
Reciprocity for paramedics nationally works like this: Interstate EMS Compact: 30+ states. Beyond that baseline, interstate compacts exist for many professions and may smooth a transfer into Arkansas. Verify the specifics with the Arkansas licensing board.
Does Arkansas require a background check for Paramedic licensing?
Arkansas does require a background check before issuing a paramedic license. What counts as disqualifying, and how it's reviewed, is up to the state licensing board.
What are the continuing education requirements for Paramedic in Arkansas?
To stay licensed as a paramedic in Arkansas, plan on 72 hours of continuing education per 2-year renewal cycle; renewal itself runs $86.

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