Certification Guide
Earn a Bachelor’s Degree
To become a certified teacher in Arkansas, the first requirement is to complete a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university. Most teaching candidates major in education or a related field that includes a teacher preparation program.
Complete an Approved Teacher Preparation Program
Arkansas requires completion of a state-approved educator preparation program. These programs combine classroom instruction with student teaching experience to prepare candidates for real-world teaching.
Pass Required Exams
All prospective teachers must pass the required Praxis exams. These include content-specific assessments based on your intended subject or grade level. Some pathways may also require a basic skills test.
Apply for Your Initial License
Once education and testing requirements are met, candidates can apply for an initial teaching license through the Arkansas Department of Education. You will need to submit transcripts, exam scores, and background check documentation.
Complete Background Checks
Arkansas requires both state and FBI background checks for teacher certification. These are typically submitted electronically during the application process.
Start Teaching & Maintain Your License
After receiving your license, you can begin teaching in Arkansas public schools. Educators are responsible for renewing their license periodically and completing any required professional development hours.
Disclaimer: ArkansasTeacher.com is an independent informational website and is not affiliated with the Arkansas Department of Education or any government agency. Our staff are not licensed educators, attorneys, or official state representatives. For the most accurate and up-to-date licensing and policy information, please consult the Arkansas Department of Education at ade.arkansas.gov.