How to get a real estate license in Arkansas
Arkansas requires 60 hours of pre-licensing education, a state exam given by Pearson VUE, and a background check to become a salesperson.
Last checked October 2026. Official source: Arkansas Real Estate Commission
- License
- Salesperson
- Pre-licensing education
- 60 hours
- State exam
- Pearson VUE, after AREC emails your authorization to test. National (80 questions) and state (30 questions) portions, scaled score of 70 on each.
- Background check
- Fingerprint-based Arkansas State Police and FBI check.
- Broker
- New licensees work under a licensed broker.
Featured Arkansas real estate schools
The Arkansas Real Estate Commission publishes the list of approved schools. Find approved schools
Run a Arkansas real estate school? Feature your school here
Steps to get licensed in Arkansas
- 1
Complete 60 hours of approved education
Take the pre-licensing course from a school approved by AREC.
- 2
Pass the state exam
Pearson VUE, after AREC emails your authorization to test. National (80 questions) and state (30 questions) portions, scaled score of 70 on each.
- 3
Complete the background check
Fingerprint-based Arkansas State Police and FBI check.
- 4
Affiliate with a broker
Choose a licensed Arkansas broker to work under. The broker is usually part of your application or license activation.
- 5
Apply for your license
Send your license forms and fee to AREC within 90 days of passing the exam.
Required courses
| Course | Hours |
|---|---|
| Pre-licensing course | 60 |
| Total | 60 |
At least 30 of the 60 hours must be in basic principles of real estate. The course certificate doesn't expire.
State fees
| Fee | Amount |
|---|---|
| Estimated state feesExam, application, and background check combined. Confirm current amounts with AREC. | About $236 |
Course tuition is set by each school and isn't included.
After you're licensed
- Arkansas licenses renew every year by December 31.
- Check AREC for Arkansas's current post-licensing, continuing education, and renewal requirements.
Licensed in another state?
Arkansas offers reciprocity or license recognition for some out-of-state licensees. Check AREC for which states qualify and what you still need to complete.
Arkansas real estate license FAQ
Who issues real estate licenses in Arkansas?
The Arkansas Real Estate Commission (AREC) issues the salesperson license in Arkansas. Its official website is arec.arkansas.gov.
How many hours of pre-licensing education does Arkansas require?
Arkansas requires 60 hours of approved pre-licensing education. At least 30 of the 60 hours must be in basic principles of real estate. The course certificate doesn't expire.
What courses do I need to take for a Arkansas real estate license?
The required coursework is Pre-licensing course (60 hours).
What is the Arkansas real estate exam like?
Pearson VUE, after AREC emails your authorization to test. National (80 questions) and state (30 questions) portions, scaled score of 70 on each.
Is a background check required in Arkansas?
Fingerprint-based Arkansas State Police and FBI check.
Do I need a sponsoring broker to get licensed in Arkansas?
New licensees work under a licensed broker.
How much does a Arkansas real estate license cost?
State fees include estimated state fees (About $236). Course tuition is set by each school and is not included.
Can I transfer a real estate license from another state to Arkansas?
Arkansas offers reciprocity or license recognition for some out-of-state licensees. Check AREC for which states qualify and what you still need to complete.
What do I need to do after getting my Arkansas real estate license?
Arkansas licenses renew every year by December 31. Check AREC for Arkansas's current post-licensing, continuing education, and renewal requirements.
Get course info for Arkansas
Tell us how to reach you and we'll connect you with an approved Arkansas real estate school.
Requirements and fees change. Confirm the current rules with the Arkansas Real Estate Commission before you enroll or apply.