Arkansas Emergency Teacher Certification Requirements (2026 Guide)

Arkansas, like many states, continues to face persistent teacher shortages—especially in high-need subject areas and rural school districts. To keep classrooms staffed and students learning, the state allows school districts to hire qualified individuals under an Arkansas Emergency Teacher Certification when a fully licensed teacher cannot be found.

If you’re considering teaching in Arkansas but don’t yet meet standard licensure requirements, understanding the Arkansas Emergency Teacher Certification Requirements is essential. This option can place you in the classroom quickly, but it also comes with limits, responsibilities, and a clear expectation that you’ll work toward full certification.

This guide is designed for aspiring educators who need clear, accurate answers—fast. We’ll walk through eligibility rules, application steps, testing expectations (including Praxis considerations), license duration, and how emergency certification fits into long-term licensure pathways.

All guidance aligns with standards set by the Arkansas Department of Education (ADE) and its Division of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE), so you can move forward with confidence and clarity.

• What Is an Emergency Teacher Certification in Arkansas?
• Who Qualifies for Emergency Teacher Certification in Arkansas?
• Arkansas Emergency Teacher Certification Requirements
• How to Apply for an Emergency Teaching License in Arkansas
• How Long Does an Arkansas Emergency Teaching License Last?
• Emergency vs Provisional Teacher License in Arkansas
• Can You Teach in Arkansas Without Certification?
• Teacher Shortage Areas That Commonly Use Emergency Certification
• Transitioning From Emergency Certification to a Standard Arkansas Teaching License
• FAQs About Arkansas Emergency Teacher Certification
• Final Thoughts: Is Emergency Teacher Certification in Arkansas Right for You?

What Is an Emergency Teacher Certification in Arkansas?

An emergency teacher certification is a temporary teaching license issued by Arkansas when a school district cannot fill a position with a fully licensed educator. This certification is typically issued when a school district faces challenges in filling teaching positions, especially in high-need areas such as mathematics, science, and special education.

Unlike standard or provisional licenses, this certification:

• Is short-term

• Is requested by a school district, not the teacher

• Exists solely to address immediate staffing needs

You may also hear this referred to as an emergency teaching permit in Arkansas or a temporary teaching license. Regardless of the name, the purpose is the same: allowing districts to legally place a qualified individual in the classroom while longer-term certification steps are underway.

Emergency licenses are most commonly used for:

• Hard-to-fill subject areas

• Mid-year vacancies

• Rural or underserved districts

• Situations where student learning would otherwise be disrupted

Who Qualifies for Emergency Teacher Certification in Arkansas?

While emergency certification is flexible, it is not automatic. Arkansas still enforces minimum standards to protect students and maintain instructional quality.

To qualify for an emergency teacher certification in Arkansas, candidates must meet certain educational and employment criteria.

Basic Eligibility Checklist

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university

• Job offer from an Arkansas public school district

• Degree or coursework related to the subject area (preferred, but not always required)

• Successful state and federal background checks

• District verification that no fully licensed teacher is available

Individuals cannot independently apply for an emergency teaching license. Eligibility is determined and initiated by the employing school district.

Arkansas Emergency Teacher Certification Requirements

Educational Requirements

To apply for the Arkansas emergency teaching certificate, applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree. While a degree in education is beneficial, candidates from other fields may also qualify if they meet subject-area relevance to the position they intend to fill.

School District Sponsorship

School districts must request the emergency teacher license on behalf of the candidate. This process includes submitting documentation that proves the necessity for hiring an emergency teacher, demonstrating the efforts made to find fully certified teachers.

Background Checks & Fingerprinting

All candidates must undergo state and federal background checks. This process is a critical part of ensuring the safety and well-being of students in Arkansas schools.

Testing Requirements (If Applicable)

In some cases, candidates may be required to pass the Praxis exam. However, testing may be deferred under certain circumstances, such as when a candidate is enrolled in an alternative certification program.

Additional ADE / DESE Requirements

Some candidates may need to complete ethics training or comply with additional state requirements as specified by the Arkansas Department of Education.

How to Apply for an Emergency Teaching License in Arkansas

Step-by-Step Application Process

1. Secure employment with an Arkansas school district.
2. The district submits the emergency license request.
3. Complete the required background checks.
4. ADE / DESE reviews and issues the emergency teaching license.

Where Applications Are Submitted

Applications for the emergency teaching license are submitted through the ADE / DESE licensure system. This centralized process ensures that all documentation is reviewed efficiently.

Application Processing Time

Typically, the approval timelines for emergency teaching licenses can vary but may take several weeks. Common delays can occur due to incomplete documentation or issues with background checks, so it is essential to ensure all materials are submitted correctly.

How Long Does an Arkansas Emergency Teaching License Last?

The standard validity period for an Arkansas emergency teaching license is usually up to one year. However, renewal is possible under specific conditions, and there is a limit to the number of times this license can be renewed. Teachers must transition to a standard licensure pathway before the expiration of their emergency license.

Emergency vs Provisional Teacher License in Arkansas

Which License Is Right for You?

Choosing between an emergency and provisional license depends on your career goals and current situation. If you have a job offer and need to start teaching immediately, the emergency license is suitable. However, if you are preparing for long-term teaching, consider the provisional license.

Can You Teach in Arkansas Without Certification?

Legally, individuals cannot teach in Arkansas without some form of certification, with emergency certification being the only exception. Teaching without certification can lead to significant risks and limitations, including potential legal consequences for both the educator and the school district.

Teacher Shortage Areas That Commonly Use Emergency Certification

Emergency teacher certifications are often utilized in high-need subjects such as:

• Mathematics
• Science
• Special Education

Additionally, rural and underserved districts frequently rely on emergency certifications due to the difficulty in attracting certified educators. Many individuals transition from substitute teaching roles to full-time positions using emergency certifications.

Transitioning From Emergency Certification to a Standard Arkansas Teaching License

Candidates who begin teaching under an emergency certification must pursue alternative certification pathways to achieve full licensure. This process typically includes completing required coursework and passing necessary exams, such as the Praxis exam. Transitioning timelines can vary based on individual circumstances and program requirements.

FAQs About Arkansas Emergency Teacher Certification

How fast can I start teaching with an emergency license?

Typically, once your application is approved, you can start teaching immediately under an emergency license.

Can out-of-state teachers qualify?

Yes, out-of-state teachers may qualify for an emergency license if they meet specific requirements set by the Arkansas Department of Education.

Can emergency teachers renew their license?

Emergency licenses can be renewed under certain conditions, but there are limits on how many times this can occur.

Is emergency certification available every year?

Yes, the emergency certification process is available annually, depending on the needs of the school districts.

Does emergency certification lead to full licensure?

Yes, emergency certification is a temporary measure that can lead to full licensure through the appropriate certification pathways.

Final Thoughts: Is Emergency Teacher Certification in Arkansas Right for You?

Emergency teacher certification in Arkansas provides a valuable opportunity for individuals to enter the teaching profession quickly, especially in areas with significant teacher shortages. While this pathway offers immediate employment, it is essential to plan for long-term licensure goals. If you are considering this route, explore both standard and alternative certification options to ensure a successful teaching career.