Step-by-Step: How to Get a Arkansas Medical License
Create Online Application Account
1–2 daysRegister with the Arkansas State Medical Board online portal and begin your application. Gather all required documents before starting.
Submit FCVS Profile
2–4 weeksFCVS profile strongly recommended; expedites primary source verification. Submit your FCVS profile to the Federation of State Medical Boards. FCVS verifies your medical education, training, and examination history.
Background Check & Fingerprinting
1–3 weeksComplete the required background check: PATCH (Arkansas). Schedule fingerprinting at an authorized location and submit results to the board.
Submit Supporting Documents
1–2 weeksProvide verification of training (residency, fellowship), board certification, malpractice history, peer references, and any required CME documentation.
Board Review & Approval
6–10 weeksThe Arkansas State Medical Board reviews your complete application. Processing time varies based on application volume and completeness of your file.
DEA Registration
2–4 weeksApply for DEA registration in the new state if you will be prescribing controlled substances. DEA registration is separate from state licensure.
Total estimated time: 6–10 weeks (standard) · 2–3 weeks (IMLC, if eligible)
Arkansas Medical License Requirements Checklist
Is Arkansas in the IMLC Compact for Locum Physicians?
Arkansas is an IMLC member state. Eligible physicians can obtain a Arkansas license through the compact in 2–3 weeks instead of the standard 6–10 weeks traditional process.
IMLC Eligibility Requirements:
- • State of principal licensure must be an IMLC member
- • No disciplinary orders on any state license
- • Board certified (or meeting IMLC GME standards)
- • No criminal history preventing licensure
Arkansas Medical License Fee Structure
| Fee Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| Initial Application Fee | $200–$600 (varies by state) |
| Fingerprint Processing | $25–$75 |
| DEA Registration | $888 (3 years) |
| FCVS Profile (if required) | $375 initial |
Fees subject to change. Verify current fees at the Arkansas State Medical Board website.
How Locums One Handles Arkansas Licensing
For every physician we place in Arkansas, Locums One handles the entire licensing and credentialing process at no cost:
Get the Arkansas Medical License Guide PDF:
Already eligible for IMLC
Arkansas is an IMLC member state. Pay us a $99 refundable deposit, we'll handle your full IMLC application — get Arkansas + 40+ other state licenses in 3–4 weeks.
Frequently Asked Questions — Arkansas Medical License
How long does it take to get a Arkansas medical license?
The Arkansas State Medical Board typically processes applications in 6–10 weeks. IMLC compact members can obtain a Arkansas license in 2–3 weeks through the expedited pathway. Locums One begins credentialing immediately upon engagement to minimize delays.
Is Arkansas in the IMLC compact?
Arkansas is an IMLC member state. Eligible physicians can obtain a Arkansas license through the compact in 2–3 weeks instead of the standard 6–10 weeks traditional process.
Does Arkansas require FCVS for medical licensure?
Yes. FCVS profile strongly recommended; expedites primary source verification. FCVS profiles must be submitted to the Federation of State Medical Boards before the Arkansas State Medical Board can complete primary source verification.
What background check does Arkansas require for medical licensure?
Arkansas requires: PATCH (Arkansas). Background check results must be submitted directly to the Arkansas State Medical Board.
Can Locums One handle my Arkansas medical license application?
Yes. Locums One handles all licensing and credentialing for placed physicians at no cost — including Arkansas medical board applications, FCVS coordination, fingerprinting scheduling, and DEA registration. Our average credentialing time is 21 days (industry average: 60–90 days).
Do I need a separate DEA registration for Arkansas?
Yes. DEA registration is state-specific. If you will be prescribing controlled substances in Arkansas, you need a Arkansas DEA registration in addition to your state medical license. DEA registration takes 2–4 weeks and costs $888 for a 3-year registration.
What CME requirements does Arkansas have for medical license renewal?
Arkansas requires continuing medical education (CME) for license renewal. Requirements vary by specialty and license type — check the Arkansas State Medical Board website for current CME requirements. Locums One tracks license expiration dates and prompts renewal 90 days in advance.
Is locum tenens work 1099 or W-2 in Arkansas?
Most locum tenens physicians work as 1099 independent contractors in Arkansas. You receive a 1099-NEC, handle your own quarterly estimated taxes, and access significant business deductions. has state income tax — factor this into your rate negotiations.