Healthcare Market
$22 billion (estimated 2024)
Arkansas (AR)
Arkansas Medical License
Get licensed to practice medicine in Arkansas. 33rd.
- Population
- 3,000,000
- Difficulty
- Low
- Telehealth: Allowed
- CME: 20 hours per year (40 per 2-year cycle)
Medical board
Arkansas State Medical Board
2-3 business days for inquiries; application updates within 2 weeks
- Phone
- (501) 296-1802
Quick answer
Quick Answer: Arkansas Medical License
- Time to License
- 4-6 weeks
- Total Cost
- $400-$600
- CME Requirements
- 20 hours per year (40 per 2-year cycle)
- IMLC Compact
- No - standard process required
Healthcare market
Arkansas Healthcare Market
Key market data for physicians considering Arkansas.
Physician Demand
High
Primary Care Avg.
$235,000
Unique Opportunities in Arkansas
- Very low cost of living
- Significant rural healthcare needs
- Growing healthcare infrastructure in Little Rock
- UAMS academic medical center opportunities
- Delta region has critical shortages
- Strong loan repayment programs available
Application sequence
Arkansas Licensing Timeline
Typical timeline: 4-6 weeks. Here's what to expect.
- 1
Submit Application
Complete online application through Arkansas Medical Board portal.
1-2 days - 2
Pay Fees
Submit application fee.
Immediate - 3
Background Check
Complete fingerprinting for background check.
1-2 weeks - 4
Verification
Board verifies credentials.
2-3 weeks - 5
Approval
Board review and license issuance.
1-2 weeks
Application path
Arkansas License Requirements
Complete requirements for your AR medical license.
Medical Education
Graduate from LCME or AOA-accredited school, or approved international school
- Official transcripts required
Postgraduate Training
Minimum 2 year(s) required
- 24 months ACGME-accredited training minimum
Licensing Exams
Pass USMLE Step 1, 2 CK, and 3
- COMLEX accepted: true
Background Check
Fingerprinting required
- State and FBI background check required
Professional References
3 references required
- Licensed physicians
- Residency directors
Practice considerations
Practicing in Arkansas
What to expect when practicing medicine in Arkansas.
Specialties in Demand
Mostly rural; Little Rock main urban center
- Primary Care
- Family Medicine
- Internal Medicine
- Psychiatry
- OB/GYN
- General Surgery
Compensation
Slightly below average but excellent relative to cost of living
- Primary Care: $235,000
- Specialist: $355,000
Cost of Living
84.8 (15.2% below national average)
- Housing: Very low; median home $175,000
- State Tax: 2.0% to 4.7% (reduced rates)
Major Markets
Major metropolitan practice markets.
- Little Rock-North Little Rock (750K)
- Fayetteville-Springdale-Rogers (575K)
- Fort Smith (280K)
Shortage Areas
Areas with documented physician demand.
- Arkansas Delta
- Rural western Arkansas
- Most counties outside Little Rock
Major Healthcare Systems
Selected systems in the frozen state resource.
- UAMS (University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences)
- Baptist Health
- Arkansas Children's
Avoid delays
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
Don't let these common issues delay your Arkansas license.
Underestimating Rural Needs
Physicians expect urban amenities everywhere.
Solution: Research practice location thoroughly; rural incentives are substantial
Missing CME Requirements
Annual requirements differ from other states.
Solution: Track 20 hours annually, including mandatory topics
Common questions
Arkansas Licensing FAQ
Common questions about getting licensed in Arkansas.
How long does Arkansas medical licensure take?
Typically 4-6 weeks for complete applications.
Is Arkansas in the IMLC?
Yes, Arkansas joined the IMLC in 2017.
What are Arkansas CME requirements?
40 hours per 2-year cycle (20 hours annually) including controlled substance education.
What is the cost of living like in Arkansas?
Very low - approximately 15% below national average.
Related states
Also Considering These States?
Many providers licensed in Arkansas also practice in these states.
Track Arkansas renewals in one tracker.
Keep requirements, documents, renewals, and proof visible before deadlines.