Teacher Certification Types & Requirements in Arkansas for 2025

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Becoming a certified teacher in Arkansas can open the door to a fulfilling and impactful career. Teaching certification not only validates your skills but also increases job opportunities and earning potential in the state’s education system.

Arkansas requires educators to meet specific standards, including passing exams and completing approved preparation programs, ensuring teachers are well-prepared to support student success. Pursuing certification here means joining a community dedicated to improving education across all grade levels.

This article will guide you through the various certification types and requirements, helping you understand the steps needed to start your teaching journey in Arkansas with confidence.

Key Points About Teacher Certification Types and Requirements in Arkansas

Arkansas offers several certification types, including standard, alternative, and provisional, tailored to different education levels and experience backgrounds.
The job outlook for certified teachers in Arkansas is positive, with steady demand in public schools and a growing need for special education and STEM educators.
Certified teachers in Arkansas earn an average salary of around $50,000, and the state’s affordable living costs make it a great place to launch a teaching career.

What are the different types of teaching certifications in Arkansas?
What are the education requirements to become a certified teacher in Arkansas?
What tests are required for teacher certification in Arkansas?
What are the best certification programs in Arkansas?
Are there alternative routes to teacher certification in Arkansas?
How much does it cost to get a teaching certification in Arkansas?
How long does it take to get certified as a teacher in Arkansas?
What is the most affordable pathway to achieving teacher certification in Arkansas?
Are there subject-specific certification requirements in Arkansas?
How do you renew Arkansas teaching certification?
Is teacher certification in Arkansas transferable to other states?
What are the benefits of having a teacher certification in Arkansas?
Other Things You Need to Know About Teacher Certification Types and Requirements in Arkansas

What are the different types of teaching certifications in Arkansas?

If you're thinking about becoming a teacher in Arkansas, it's good to know the different types of teaching certifications in Arkansas and what each requires. The state offers several options depending on your background and career goals, making it easier to find a path that suits your situation. Here's a quick rundown of the key licenses and what you need for each:

Standard Teaching Certificate: This is the main license for most classroom teachers. You need to complete a state-approved teacher prep program and pass all required assessments to qualify.
Provisional License: Designed for career changers or recent grads who haven't met all certification criteria yet but are working toward it while teaching.
Emergency or Substitute Permits: These let you fill in short-term teaching roles when a fully certified teacher isn’t available, even if you don’t meet all standard qualifications.
Alternative Route Certification: If you have a bachelor’s degree in a non-education field, you can take this route by completing an alternative preparation program while teaching.
Subject-Specific and Special Education Endorsements: Earn extra endorsements to teach specialized subjects like math, science, or special education to broaden your qualifications.
Career-Technical Permit: For those with expertise in technical or vocational areas who may not have gone through a traditional teacher prep program.
Advanced Professional License: For experienced teachers aiming to show mastery and leadership, often stepping into mentorship or coaching roles.

Exploring your options can help you find the right path, whether you're just starting or switching careers. And if you’re interested in getting started with foundational education credentials, check out this list of best associate degrees in education online to see some flexible programs that might fit your needs.

What are the education requirements to become a certified teacher in Arkansas?

Getting certified to teach in Arkansas means meeting several key educational milestones designed to prepare you for the classroom. These steps, guided by the Arkansas Division of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE), make sure you’ve got the skills and knowledge to succeed as a teacher.

Here’s a quick look at the main education requirements to become a certified teacher in Arkansas:

Bachelor’s Degree: You need to earn a bachelor’s degree from a college or university that’s accredited and recognized by the state, which serves as the essential academic foundation.
Teacher Preparation Program: Completing a state-approved educator preparation program is a must. These programs combine teaching theory with subject-specific training to get you ready for real classroom challenges.
Coursework: Your training will include classes on teaching strategies, learning theories, classroom management, and your subject area. Plus, you’ll study Arkansas history as part of meeting state requirements.
Student Teaching Experience: Arkansas requires at least 60 full school days (about 420 hours) of supervised student teaching or practicum. This hands-on experience happens in a classroom setting under the watchful eye of a licensed teacher.
Additional Training: You’ll also complete ongoing professional development covering topics like classroom tech, special education, and state-specific content like Arkansas history.

If you’re considering an online school for teaching degree, make sure it aligns with Arkansas teacher preparation program requirements so you’re fully prepared for certification.

What tests are required for teacher certification in Arkansas?

The state has a few key exams designed to make sure you’re ready to step into the classroom with confidence. Here’s a quick rundown of the main tests you’ll face on your path to becoming a certified teacher:

Praxis Core Academic Skills for Educators: This is a basic skills test that covers reading, writing, and mathematics to prove you have the essential academic skills. It’s usually required before you get into a state-approved teacher prep program.
Praxis Principles of Learning and Teaching (PLT): This is a pedagogy assessment that checks your understanding of teaching methods, educational theory, and classroom management. You’ll take the version that matches your grade level, from Early Childhood all the way to World Language Pedagogy.
Praxis Subject Assessments: This is a subject area exam which you’ll need to pass one or more exams focused on the specific subject you want to teach. These tests measure your content knowledge and vary depending on your chosen certification area.
Arkansas Foundations of Reading Assessment: If you’re aiming to teach Elementary Education (K-6) or Special Education (K-12), this test is a must. It evaluates your knowledge of effective, research-based reading instruction.
edTPA (with approval): In some cases, you can substitute the Praxis PLT with the edTPA, a portfolio-based assessment that looks at your ability to plan, teach, and assess student learning. You’ll need approval from the Arkansas Department of Education to use this option.

The chart below shows the educational attainment of certified teachers in the United States, including Arkansas, offering a broader view of how academic backgrounds align with certification trends.

What are the best certification programs in Arkansas?

If you’re aiming for a traditional path to teaching certification in Arkansas, there are several standout programs worth checking out. These options are well-established, state-approved, and known for preparing future educators through solid coursework and hands-on experience.

University of Arkansas – Fayetteville: This flagship university offers a thorough educator prep program where you earn a bachelor’s degree, complete education classes, and get plenty of supervised student teaching. The program meets all Arkansas Department of Education standards and benefits from experienced faculty and strong school partnerships.
Arkansas State University – Jonesboro: ASU’s programs cover elementary, secondary, and special education licensure tracks. Their curriculum mixes theory and subject-specific courses, plus a student teaching component of about 420 hours, which goes beyond the state’s minimum requirement.
Harding University: Known for its impressive pass rates on state licensing exams, Harding provides hands-on classroom experience and thorough preparation for Praxis exams and Arkansas certification tests, producing graduates who are ready to teach.
Henderson State University: Offering options in early childhood, middle level, and secondary education, Henderson focuses heavily on supervised clinical practice and partners closely with local schools to support student teaching.
Southern Arkansas University: SAU emphasizes a structured program that moves from general education to advanced teaching methods, with a strong focus on fieldwork and mentorship to get candidates classroom-ready.

To get certified traditionally in Arkansas, you’ll need to complete an accredited bachelor’s degree, take part in student teaching, and pass state-required Praxis exams and background checks. These programs are a great choice if you want one of the best alternative teacher certification Arkansas options for a straightforward, well-supported route into the classroom.

If you want to explore the list of the popular education degrees that align with these programs, that’s a solid place to start. The image below shows the average age of certified teachers in the U.S., providing insight into the state's current educator demographics.

The average age of certified teachers is 42.4 years.

Are there alternative routes to teacher certification in Arkansas?

If you’re thinking about teaching in Arkansas but didn’t follow the traditional route of a teacher prep program during college, don’t worry—there are plenty of alternative pathways that make it possible to get certified. These options are especially great if you’re switching careers or have a degree in something unrelated to education.

Here’s a quick rundown of the main alternative certification routes and what you need to know about them:

Arkansas Professional Pathway to Educator Licensure (APPEL): This is a popular choice for folks with a bachelor’s in any field. You get to work as a provisional licensed teacher while completing a two-year program that includes coursework and mentoring.
Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) Programs: Many Arkansas universities offer these programs, which combine earning your teaching license with a graduate degree, usually over one to two years and often with a teaching internship.
American Board for the Certification of Teacher Excellence (ABCTE): This is an online option where you pass subject exams and get a three-year provisional license, allowing you to teach while you complete other state requirements.
Residency and Post-Baccalaureate Programs: These usually involve intense coursework plus a teaching residency. Some, like MathTrack Institute, are self-paced and focus on content exams for specific subjects.
Other Programs: Arkansas Teacher Corps and Teach for America place teachers in high-need schools, while the Provisional Professional Teaching License (PPTL) targets experienced professionals in fields like STEM or business aiming to teach related subjects.

To qualify for alternative certification pathways in Arkansas, you typically need a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution (usually with a minimum 2.5 GPA), pass relevant Praxis or content exams, and complete state-approved coursework offered online, in-person, or in hybrid formats. Many programs allow you to begin teaching on a provisional license while completing these requirements, giving you valuable classroom experience.

One Arkansas teacher who entered through the APPEL program shared that while balancing full-time teaching and coursework was initially overwhelming, strong mentoring and on-the-job learning made the process both manageable and rewarding, especially for career changers seeking a guided path into education.

How much does it cost to get a teaching certification in Arkansas?

If you're wondering about the cost of teacher certification in Arkansas, it really depends on the path you choose. For traditional undergraduate programs at public universities, in-state tuition usually falls between $7,000 and $10,000 per year, not including books or living expenses. Graduate programs, like master’s degrees in education, tend to be a bit pricier, with costs ranging from $8,000 to $12,000 annually for residents.

Alternative certification options can be more affordable and flexible. For example, the iteach Arkansas program charges a $99 enrollment fee plus $99 per month, totaling about $4,949 for the whole program. Prism Teacher Institute offers a two-year program for $3,200, while the American Board program costs around $1,900 for certification coursework. These routes can be great if you want to start teaching quicker or don’t want to go back for a full degree.

Besides tuition or program fees, there are other costs to keep in mind. The Arkansas teaching license application fee is $75, and you’ll need to budget for exams like the Praxis tests, which range from $90 to $210 each. Background checks and fingerprinting add another $50 to $60. And don’t forget materials like textbooks and prep resources, which might tack on a few hundred dollars.

Luckily, Arkansas offers financial aid options such as the Arkansas Academic Challenge Scholarship and loan forgiveness programs like TEACH Grants, which can really help reduce out-of-pocket expenses. If you want to explore affordable online options for graduate degrees, check out cheap online library science masters degrees that might fit your budget and schedule.

How long does it take to get certified as a teacher in Arkansas?

If you're aiming to become a certified teacher in Arkansas, the time it takes can vary widely depending on your educational background and the pathway you choose. Here’s a quick rundown on how long it generally takes to get your teaching certification in Arkansas, depending on the path you choose:

Traditional Bachelor’s Degree Pathway: This is the classic route where you complete a bachelor’s degree with a teacher prep program. It usually takes about four to five years, including all coursework, field experiences, and student teaching. You’ll need to complete at least 60 full school days (around 420 hours) of supervised teaching practice as part of this.
Post-Baccalaureate Certification: If you already have a bachelor’s degree in another field, you can go for a post-baccalaureate or non-traditional certification program. These typically take about 12 to 18 months and include education courses, student teaching or internships, plus exam prep.
Alternative Certification Programs: Designed for career changers or those wanting a faster route, these programs also generally take 12 to 18 months. They often mix coursework with paid teaching under supervision, so you can earn while you learn.
Student Teaching and Internships: No matter the path, Arkansas requires a minimum of 60 full school days (420 hours) of hands-on teaching experience. Some programs, like those at the University of Arkansas, keep a close eye on this to help you meet the requirement smoothly.
Exam Preparation: You’ll need to pass tests like the Praxis Core, Praxis II subject exams, and sometimes the Foundations of Reading exam. Prep time varies but often runs alongside your coursework, occasionally stretching your timeline by a few weeks or months.

Keep in mind, things like studying part-time, transferring credits from previous courses, or jumping into accelerated programs can change how long it takes. For example, some accelerated options can get you certified in under a year if you're highly motivated.

Also, don’t forget the extra time for background checks and application processing, which can add a few weeks. Local options like the University of Arkansas and iTeach Arkansas offer flexible programs and solid support to help you pass exams and check off licensure requirements efficiently.

The chart below shows the types of companies that frequently hire certified teachers, highlighting the range of opportunities available beyond traditional schools.

What is the most affordable pathway to achieving teacher certification in Arkansas?

For educators seeking a cost-effective route into the profession, several alternative pathways offer lower upfront expenses compared to traditional degree programs. These alternatives integrate coursework with hands-on classroom experience under provisional licenses, reducing both program fees and time-to-certification. Detailed insights on minimizing costs while securing a valid certification can be found via the cheapest way to get a teaching credential in Arkansas.

Are there subject-specific certification requirements in Arkansas?

Arkansas offers subject-specific endorsements that require additional coursework or discipline-specific exams to qualify for teaching roles in specialized fields. Applicants seeking to instruct subjects such as music, art, or special education should verify any exclusive requirements set by the Arkansas Department of Education. For instance, those interested in music education need to meet targeted criteria—detailed information can be found on our guide on how to become a music teacher in Arkansas. Ensuring compliance with subject-specific standards can streamline the certification process and help aspiring educators prepare effectively for classroom challenges.

How do you renew Arkansas teaching certification?

Renewing your teaching certification in Arkansas is a pretty straightforward process, but it’s important to stay on top of it since certificates must be renewed every five years. The state requires teachers to complete professional development hours and submit documentation online to keep their licenses current.

Here’s a quick rundown of what you need to know about the arkansas teacher license renewal requirements and how to renew teaching certificate in Arkansas without hassle:

Complete required professional development yearly: Educators must complete 36 hours of approved professional development each school year for the five‑year license term. These hours must align with state standards and be documented by your district or via approved forms if you are not teaching continuously.
Accumulate college coursework or assessments if needed: Teachers may fulfill requirements by completing 6 college credit hours in an endorsement area or passing state pedagogy or specialty assessments if they have not done so previously.
Submit a new background check and child maltreatment clearance: Each renewal requires a current fingerprint-based ASP and FBI background check and completion of the Child Maltreatment Central Registry form before the license can be renewed.
Apply online through AELS system and pay fee: You must submit the renewal application through the Arkansas Educator Licensure System (AELS) and pay the $75 fee (unless your district covers it) using the online portal; paper applications are no longer accepted.
Verify professional development documentation: If you taught continuously in an Arkansas public school for the preceding five years, your PD will often be pre-populated in the system. If not, you must upload verification forms or certificates based on your employment status.
Automatic renewal conditions and grace period: Educators meeting PD, experience, and background check requirements receive an automatic renewal effective January 1 of the year following expiration. If your license expires but you didn’t meet all criteria, you still have a one-year grace period to complete requirements and renew.

If you’re thinking about advancing your career or boosting your salary with online masters degree in education, keeping your Arkansas teaching certificate up to date is a key step in making sure your credentials stay valid and competitive.

Is teacher certification in Arkansas transferable to other states?

If you’re certified to teach in Arkansas and planning to move to another state, it’s helpful to know that Arkansas participates in the NASDTEC Interstate Agreement. This agreement allows teachers to transfer their certification to over 40 other states, including Texas, California, Florida, and New York.

While you won’t have to repeat your entire teacher preparation program, you will need to apply directly to the new state’s education department, as Arkansas does not forward your credentials. Each state sets its own requirements, so it’s important to research early and prepare accordingly.

Reciprocity usually means you’ll be issued a temporary or provisional license while completing any outstanding requirements, such as passing state-specific exams, undergoing a background check, or taking required coursework. For instance, Arkansas expects out-of-state teachers to pass its licensure tests and, in some cases, complete an Arkansas History course before granting full certification.

Other states may have their own unique mandates—for example, California’s basic skills test and induction program or Arizona’s constitution coursework. Having at least three years of experience or National Board Certification can sometimes ease the transition. One Arkansas teacher described the process as “a mixed bag”—she was thankful for the provisional license but found the paperwork and test prep challenging. Still, she emphasized that the process was manageable with good recordkeeping and early planning.

What are the benefits of having a teacher certification in Arkansas?

Getting your teacher certification in Arkansas is a smart move if you want to unlock better job chances and grow your teaching career. It’s not just a requirement for most public schools—it also comes with perks like higher pay, job stability, and chances to step into leadership roles. Plus, the state offers some neat bonuses and support programs that make being certified even more rewarding.

Here’s a quick look at what having an Arkansas teaching license can do for you:

Higher minimum salary and statewide pay support: Certified teachers in Arkansas benefit from the LEARNS Act, which raised the state’s minimum teacher salary from about $36,000 to at least $50,000 annually. This baseline ensures all certified educators receive competitive compensation regardless of district funding.
Eligibility for merit-based bonuses: Certified teachers may qualify for annual merit pay bonuses—sometimes up to $10,000—through the state’s Merit Teacher Incentive Fund.
National Board Certification incentives: Teachers who obtain National Board Certification (NBCT) can receive additional bonuses ranging from $2,500 to $10,000 annually depending on the poverty level of their school and district.
Access to loan forgiveness and scholarship programs: Certified educators, especially those serving in critical shortage areas, are eligible for enhanced student loan forgiveness—up to $6,000 over three years—and scholarship programs aimed at covering tuition and licensing costs.
Career advancement and retention supports: Holding certification opens pathways to leadership roles, mentorship opportunities, and district-level recognition programs. Certification signifies proficiency and credibility, positioning teachers for advancement while improving retention in key subject areas.

These benefits are especially important given the ongoing teacher shortages in many districts not only across Arkansas but the whole country, as shown below.

About 41,920 teaching jobs were unfilled in the U.S.

What Teachers in Arkansas Say About Their Certification

Obtaining my teaching certification in Arkansas opened doors I never expected. The flexibility in scheduling allowed me to balance work and family life perfectly, and the competitive average salaries made it a rewarding career choice. I feel truly valued as an educator here. Lisa
Becoming certified in Arkansas was a pivotal moment in my career. The state offers numerous advancement opportunities, from leadership roles to specialized education fields, which motivated me to continually grow. This certification has not only enhanced my skills but also my confidence as a professional. Jeremy
Arkansas provides outstanding professional development programs for certified teachers, making continuous learning both accessible and inspiring. The workshops and training sessions have deepened my knowledge and kept me engaged throughout my teaching journey. It’s fulfilling to be part of a community that invests in its educators. Kaleb

Other Things You Need to Know About Teacher Certification Types and Requirements in Arkansas

Can you get teacher certification in Arkansas with a non-teaching degree?

In Arkansas, it is possible to obtain teacher certification without holding a traditional teaching degree through alternative certification programs. These pathways are designed for individuals with bachelor’s degrees in non-education fields who wish to transition into teaching. The Arkansas Department of Education offers options such as the Alternative Learning Option (ALO), which allows candidates to teach while completing required pedagogical coursework and passing relevant assessments.

According to recent state data, alternative certification programs have contributed to addressing teacher shortages, particularly in high-need areas like STEM and special education. This approach provides a structured yet flexible route for career changers aiming to enter the Arkansas public school system.

Is there an age limit for teacher certification in Arkansas?

There is no age limit for obtaining teaching certification in Arkansas. The Arkansas Department of Education focuses on meeting academic and professional requirements rather than age restrictions. Candidates must complete an approved educator preparation program, pass required exams, and fulfill background checks regardless of their age. This inclusive policy supports career changers and individuals seeking to enter the teaching profession at any stage of life.

According to state labor data, Arkansas values diverse teaching candidates to address workforce needs, emphasizing qualifications and competency over age. Therefore, prospective teachers should concentrate on meeting certification standards without concern about age limitations.

Can I teach while earning my certification in Arkansas?

In Arkansas, individuals pursuing teaching certification can often work in the classroom while completing their certification requirements through options like provisional licenses and intern credentials. These pathways allow candidates to gain practical teaching experience under the supervision of a licensed mentor teacher, providing valuable on-the-job training while they fulfill state certification standards.

This system supports aspiring educators by enabling them to earn a salary and develop classroom skills simultaneously, making it a practical choice for many entering the profession.

Does Arkansas accept international teaching credentials?

Arkansas does accept international teaching credentials, but candidates must have their qualifications evaluated by a recognized agency approved by the Arkansas Department of Education (ADE) to ensure they meet state standards. International applicants may also need to demonstrate English proficiency through exams like the TOEFL or IELTS and could be required to complete additional coursework or training.

The ADE’s Office of Educator Licensure provides guidance throughout the process, and international teachers are encouraged to begin evaluations early and prepare for potential supplemental requirements such as background checks or pedagogical coursework.

References:

AllEducationSchools.com. (n.d.). Learn How to Earn Teacher Certification in Arkansas. AllEducationSchools.com
ArkansasTeacherCorps. (n.d.). Frequently Asked Questions. ArkansasTeacherCorps.org
Arkansas State University. (2025). 2021-2022 Graduate Bulletin. ASU
American Board. (n.d.). Arkansas Teacher Certification, Preparation, Teach in Arkansas. American Board
Fort Smith Public Schools. (n.d.). Take the First Step Toward a Career in Education. FSPS
Special Education Guide. (n.d.). How to become a special education teacher in Arkansas. SPED Guide
TeachingCertification.com. (n.d.). Arkansas Teacher Reciprocity Agreements. TeachingCertification.com
University of Arkansas. (2025). Licensure Requirements and Checklist. UA
Zippia. (2025). Teacher demographics and statistics in the US. Zippia