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Arkansas Teacher Certification Requirements

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Arkansas Teacher Certification Requirements

Arkansas Teacher Certification Requirements (Step-by-Step Guide)

Primary Keyword: Arkansas teacher certification requirements
Updated for 2026

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Becoming a certified teacher in Arkansas is a structured but achievable process—especially when you understand the requirements, testing expectations, and application steps upfront. Whether you’re a first-time educator, a career switcher, or an out-of-state teacher, this guide breaks down Arkansas teacher certification requirements clearly and calmly, so you can move forward with confidence.

This article is designed for aspiring teachers preparing for Praxis exams and navigating the Arkansas Department of Education (ADE), officially known as the Division of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE). You’ll learn what’s required, how long it takes, which exams matter, and how to avoid common mistakes.

Who Needs Teacher Certification in Arkansas?

You generally need an Arkansas teaching license if you plan to teach in:

  • Public schools

  • Public charter schools

  • Special education programs

  • Long-term substitute roles (varies by district and assignment length)

Who May Be Exempt?

  • Teachers in private schools

  • Short-term substitute teachers (requirements vary by district)

If you’re unsure whether your role requires licensure, most school districts default to requiring state certification—especially for long-term or full-time positions.

Types of Arkansas Teaching Licenses

Arkansas teaching certificate types depend on your education, experience, and pathway into teaching.

Provisional Teaching License

  • Designed for new teachers or those completing requirements

  • Often used by alternative certification candidates

  • Valid for a limited time while the remaining requirements are completed

Standard Teaching License

  • For educators who have:

    • A bachelor’s degree

    • Completed an approved educator preparation program

    • Passed the required Praxis exams

  • Covers most entry-level teaching roles

Professional Teaching License

  • Advanced license for experienced educators

  • Requires:

    • Teaching experience

    • Additional professional development

  • Often needed for long-term career advancement

Alternative Licensure Pathways

Arkansas provides non-traditional routes for career changers, including:

  • Arkansas Residency Program

  • District-based alternative licensure programs

  • Approved post-baccalaureate pathways

These options often allow you to teach while completing coursework, making them popular for professionals transitioning into education.

Arkansas Teacher Certification Requirements (Checklist)

To meet Arkansas teacher certification requirements, you must generally complete the following:

  • Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution

  • Completion of an Arkansas-approved educator preparation program

  • Passing required Praxis exams

  • Criminal background check and fingerprinting

  • Online application through the ADE/DESE licensure system

  • Payment of applicable certification fees

Specific requirements may vary based on license type and teaching area.

Education Requirements for Arkansas Teachers

Degree Requirements

  • Elementary Education: Bachelor’s degree with approved preparation program

  • Secondary Education: Bachelor’s degree in a teachable subject area

  • Special Education: Specialized preparation program required

Approved Programs

Your educator preparation program must be state-approved or deemed equivalent if completed out of state.

Out-of-State Education

If your degree or preparation program was completed outside Arkansas:

  • Transcripts are reviewed individually

  • Additional coursework or Praxis exams may be required

Praxis Exam Requirements in Arkansas

Praxis exams play a central role in Arkansas teacher licensure. The exact tests depend on your grade level and subject area.

Praxis Core (If Required)

Some candidates must take Praxis Core exams in:

  • Reading

  • Writing

  • Mathematics

Exemptions may apply based on prior test scores or degree qualifications.

Praxis Subject Assessments

  • Required for content-area licensure

  • Exams are grade-specific and subject-specific

  • Passing scores vary by test and are set by the state

Important notes:

  • Choose the correct exam code for Arkansas

  • Retakes are allowed, but waiting periods may apply

Background Check & Fingerprinting Requirements

All applicants must complete the Arkansas teacher background check:

  • State and federal criminal background checks

  • Fingerprinting through an approved process

Key Points

  • Start early—processing can take several weeks

  • Certain offenses may disqualify candidates

  • Background checks must be completed before licensure is issued

How to Apply for an Arkansas Teaching License

Here is a step-by-step on how to get a teaching license in Arkansas:

  1. Create an account in the ADE/DESE online licensure system

  2. Submit an application for the appropriate license type

  3. Upload required documents:

    • Transcripts

    • Praxis score reports

    • Program completion verification

  4. Complete background check requirements

  5. Pay application fees

Processing Time

  • Applications typically take several weeks to a few months

  • Incomplete applications cause delays

Arkansas Teacher Certification Requirements for Out-of-State Teachers

Arkansas participates in interstate licensure reciprocity, but it is not automatic.

What to Expect

  • License review based on your current state credential

  • Possible additional Praxis exams

  • Temporary or provisional licenses may be issued while completing Arkansas-specific requirements

Arkansas Teacher Certification Requirements Without an Education Degree

Many candidates search for this option—and Arkansas does offer pathways.

Alternative Certification Options

  • Designed for career changers

  • Require a bachelor’s degree (any major)

  • Allow teaching while completing pedagogy coursework

  • Praxis exams are still required

This is one of the fastest ways to enter the classroom without returning for a full education degree.

Arkansas Teacher License Renewal Requirements

Renewal Basics

  • Licenses are valid for a set renewal cycle

  • Renewal requires:

    • Professional development or continuing education hours

    • Renewal application and fees

Important Tips

  • Track your PD hours early

  • Late renewals may result in penalties or license lapse

How Long Does It Take to Get Teacher Certification in Arkansas?

Typical Timeline

  • Education & preparation: 4 years (degree) or shorter via alternative route

  • Praxis exam prep: 1–3 months (varies by candidate)

  • Application processing: Several weeks to a few months

Average total timeframe:

  • Traditional route: 4–6 years

  • Alternative route: 1–2 years (post-degree)

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying

  • Submitting incomplete transcripts or documents

  • Registering for the wrong Praxis exam

  • Waiting too long to start the background check

  • Letting provisional licenses expire

  • Assuming out-of-state licenses transfer automatically

Avoiding these errors can save months of delays.

Arkansas Teacher Salary & Job Outlook

While certification is the first step, many candidates also consider long-term prospects.

  • Arkansas continues to see strong demand for teachers

  • High-need areas often include:

    • Special education

    • STEM subjects

    • Rural districts

  • Salaries vary by district, experience, and endorsement area

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are the requirements to become a teacher in Arkansas?

You need a bachelor’s degree, completion of an approved preparation program, passing Praxis exams, a background check, and a state license application.

Can you teach in Arkansas without certification?

Only in limited situations, such as private schools or temporary roles. Most public school positions require certification or an approved alternative pathway.

Does Arkansas accept out-of-state teaching licenses?

Yes, through reciprocity—but additional requirements may apply.

What Praxis exams are required in Arkansas?

This depends on grade level and subject area. Most candidates take Praxis Subject Assessments, and some must take Praxis Core.

How often do you renew an Arkansas teaching license?

Licenses must be renewed on a regular cycle and require professional development hours.

Final Thoughts: Start Your Arkansas Teaching Career

Understanding Arkansas teacher certification requirements is the first major step toward a successful teaching career. While the process involves multiple steps—education, Praxis exams, background checks, and licensure—each requirement exists to ensure you’re fully prepared for the classroom.

With the right preparation strategy and a clear plan, passing your exams and earning your Arkansas teaching license on the first attempt is absolutely achievable. Stay organized, start early, and approach the process with confidence.