Psychologist / Arkansas
2026 data Arkansas board official source

Arkansas Psychologist License Requirements

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

Diagnoses and treats mental and behavioral disorders. Requires doctoral degree.

What the Arkansas data shows for Psychologists

To practice as a psychologist in Arkansas, the state licensing board requires 5,486 documented education or training hours, a passing score on EPPP (Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology), and 2 years of supervised work experience. A criminal history background check is also part of the application. Applicants must be at least 18 years old. The regulation sits under Arkansas's professional licensing framework, which classifies the training track as "Doctoral Degree (PhD or PsyD)".

Budget $197 to get started, plus $173 at each renewal on a 2-year cycle. Renewal isn't the end of the cost: 40 hours of continuing education are due every 2-year cycle, a recurring time commitment worth planning for.

For psychologists, the reciprocity picture is: PSYPACT: 42 participating jurisdictions.

Licensing Requirements in Arkansas

Education / Training Hours
Doctoral Degree (PhD or PsyD)
5,486 hours
Exam Requirement
EPPP (Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology)
Required
Initial License Fee
$197
Renewal Fee
$173
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years
Continuing Education
40 hrs/cycle
Criminal History Check
Required
Minimum Age
18 years
Work Experience Required
2 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 Psychologist in Arkansas?
Arkansas requires 5486 education/training hours, passing an exam (EPPP (Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology)), and an initial fee of $197. A criminal background check is also required.
How do I get certified as a Psychologist in Arkansas?
To become a licensed psychologist in Arkansas, you must meet the state's requirements including 5486 hours of education and 2 years of work experience. You must also pass the required examination. Contact the Arkansas licensing board to verify current requirements.
Can I transfer my Psychologist license to Arkansas from another state?
For psychologists, the reciprocity landscape looks like this: PSYPACT: 42 participating jurisdictions. 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 Psychologist licensing?
Background screening is part of the psychologist licensing process in Arkansas. The state licensing board determines which offenses disqualify an applicant and how appeals are handled.
What are the continuing education requirements for Psychologist in Arkansas?
To stay licensed as a psychologist in Arkansas, plan on 40 hours of continuing education per 2-year renewal cycle; renewal itself runs $173.

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