Electrician License Requirements in Arkansas
| Licensing Authority | Arkansas Board of Electrical Examiners (BOEE) |
| License Type | Journeyman Electrician / Master Electrician |
| Experience Required | 4 years (8,000 hours) electrical work for Journeyman; 6 years total including time as licensed Journeyman for Master. Residential Journeyman: 3 years; Residential Master: 4 years. |
| Education Substitute | Approved electrical program may substitute for a portion of experience hours |
| Exam Required | Yes — Journeyman/Master Electrician Exam |
| Bond Required | No |
| Insurance | General liability: recommended. Workers comp: required with employees |
| Continuing Education | 8 hours 1 year |
| Processing Time | 4-6 weeks |
Fee Breakdown
| Application Fee | $25 |
| Exam Fee | $80 |
| Initial License Fee | $50 |
| Master renewal | $50 |
| Journeyman renewal | $25 |
| Est. Initial Total | $230 |
Renewal: $50 every 1 year
Exam Requirements
Journeyman/Master Electrician Exam
Exam provider: Board of Electrical Examiners
License Tiers
Apprentice Electrician
Entry level — must work under supervision
Exam: Not required
Journeyman Electrician
4 years (8,000 hours) electrical work experience
Exam: Required
Master Electrician
6 years total including time as licensed Journeyman
Exam: Required
Residential Journeyman
3 years residential electrical work
Exam: Required
Residential Master
4 years including time as Residential Journeyman
Exam: Required
License Reciprocity
This state has reciprocity agreements with 16 states. View full reciprocity details — You may be able to skip the trade exam if you hold a valid license from one of these states.
Notes
- Open book exam
- 2026: 8 hours CE required covering NEC code changes
- Master Electrician renewal is $50/year; Journeyman renewal is $25/year
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need an electrician license in Arkansas?
Yes, Arkansas requires a statewide electrician license through the Arkansas Board of Electrical Examiners.
How much does an electrician license cost in Arkansas?
The estimated initial cost is $155, including application, exam, and license fees.
What experience do I need for an electrician license in Arkansas?
4 years (8,000 hours) electrical work for Journeyman; 6 years total including time as licensed Journeyman for Master. Residential Journeyman: 3 years; Residential Master: 4 years. Education substitute: Approved electrical program may substitute for a portion of experience hours
What exams are required for an electrician license in Arkansas?
You must pass the Journeyman/Master Electrician Exam exam. A passing score of 70% is required. Exams are administered by Board of Electrical Examiners.
Does Arkansas have electrician license reciprocity?
Yes, Arkansas has reciprocity agreements with 16 states that may apply to electricians. Licensed contractors from these states may be eligible to skip certain exams or have an expedited application process.
How long does it take to get an electrician license in Arkansas?
Processing time is typically 4-6 weeks after submitting a complete application.
Is continuing education required for electricians in Arkansas?
Yes, 8 hours per 1 year is required for license renewal.
Data last verified: 2026-04-02 | Source: BOEE