General Contractor License Requirements in Arkansas
| Licensing Authority | Arkansas Contractors Licensing Board (ACLB) |
| License Type | Commercial / Residential Building |
| Experience Required | Commercial: 5 years minimum with $50,000 net worth. Residential Building: 4 years minimum with $10,000 net worth. Residential Remodeler: 2 years minimum. Must provide 3 professional references verifying experience. |
| Education Substitute | Construction management degree may substitute for up to 2 years of experience |
| Exam Required | Yes — Arkansas Business and Law Exam |
| Bond Required | Yes — $10,000 |
| Insurance | General liability: recommended. Workers comp: required with employees |
| Continuing Education | Not required |
| Processing Time | 4-8 weeks |
Fee Breakdown
| Application Fee | $100 |
| Exam Fee | $80 |
| Residential Remodeler/Home Improvement filing fee | $50 |
| Est. Initial Total | $230 |
Renewal: $100 every 1 year
Exam Requirements
Arkansas Business and Law Exam
Exam provider: PSI
License Tiers
Commercial Contractor
5 years experience; $50,000 minimum net worth; projects $50,000+
Exam: Required
Residential Building Contractor
4 years experience; $10,000 minimum net worth
Exam: Required
Residential Remodeler
2 years experience
Exam: Required
Home Improvement Specialty
Varies by specialty
Exam: Not required
License Reciprocity
This state has reciprocity agreements with 4 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
- Home Improvement Specialty licensees are exempt from the exam requirement
- Financial statement from a CPA required for Commercial ($50,000 net worth) and Residential Building ($10,000 net worth)
- License expires 1 year from date of issuance
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a general contractor license in Arkansas?
Yes, Arkansas requires a statewide general contractor license through the Arkansas Contractors Licensing Board.
How much does a general contractor license cost in Arkansas?
The estimated initial cost is $180, including application, exam, and license fees. A $10,000 surety bond is also required.
What experience do I need for a general contractor license in Arkansas?
Commercial: 5 years minimum with $50,000 net worth. Residential Building: 4 years minimum with $10,000 net worth. Residential Remodeler: 2 years minimum. Must provide 3 professional references verifying experience. Education substitute: Construction management degree may substitute for up to 2 years of experience
What exams are required for a general contractor license in Arkansas?
You must pass the Arkansas Business and Law Exam exam. A passing score of 70% is required. Exams are administered by PSI.
Do I need a bond for a general contractor license in Arkansas?
Yes, a $10,000 surety bond is required. $10,000 surety bond required for Commercial contractors. Residential contractors may not need a bond but must show financial statements from a CPA.
Does Arkansas have general contractor license reciprocity?
Yes, Arkansas has reciprocity agreements with 4 states that may apply to general contractors. 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 a general contractor license in Arkansas?
Processing time is typically 4-8 weeks after submitting a complete application.
Is continuing education required for general contractors in Arkansas?
No, Arkansas does not currently require continuing education for general contractor license renewal.
Data last verified: 2026-04-02 | Source: ACLB