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
50 questions2 hoursPass: 70%
Arkansas construction lawLien lawsSafety regulationsBusiness management
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. You may be able to skip the trade exam if you hold a valid license from one of these states.
tennesseeReciprocity for contractor licenses; Tennessee contractors must have held a valid license for at least 3 years. Must complete reciprocal application form and pay standard fees.
mississippiReciprocity for contractor licenses; Mississippi contractors must have held a valid license for at least 1 year
alabamaReciprocity for contractor licenses; Alabama contractors must have held a valid license for at least 1 year
louisianaReciprocity for contractor licenses; Louisiana contractors must have a valid license in good standing
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.
Data last verified: 2026-04-02 | Source: ACLB