Arkansas State Board of Nursing · RN

15 hours. Every two years. Tied to your license anniversary.

Below is exactly what Arkansas State Board of Nursing requires: mandatory topics, exemptions, accepted credit types, and documentation rules.

Updated April 2026Sourced from ASBN~3 min read

Reviewed by Doug Doehrman, MD · Last reviewed April 25, 2026

Mandatory topics

Arkansas has no state-mandated topic requirements beyond the 15-hour total.

Atlas CME tracks each of these mandatory topics against your Arkansas cycle automatically. Start tracking free →
Accepted credit

Credit must come from an organization accredited by the ACCME, AMA, Arkansas Medical Association, or AAFP. ACGME residency or fellowship time accrues toward the requirement. Teaching or presenting accredited CME can satisfy a portion of required hours.

Credit systemNotes
ANCC Contact Hour
ANCC contact hours from approved providers are accepted for Arkansas RN renewal CE.
Board-approved credit
Arkansas State Board of Nursing-approved continuing education activities.
Documentation & audit

Physicians are responsible for retaining CME documentation and producing it on request. Requirements include course title, dates, hours, sponsoring organization, and accrediting body.

Waivers & exemptions

First-time renewal applicants may be exempt from the CE requirement for the initial renewal period.

FAQ
Is Arkansas a Nurse Licensure Compact state?
Yes. Arkansas is a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC). Arkansas-licensed nurses hold a multistate license that allows practice in other compact states without a separate license.
How often do Arkansas nurses renew their licenses?
Arkansas uses an annual renewal cycle, which is less common than the biennial renewal used by most states. Nurses must renew — and attest to CE compliance — each year.
What CE providers does Arkansas accept?
Arkansas generally accepts CE from ANCC-accredited providers and Arkansas State Board of Nursing-approved providers. Nurses should verify provider approval before completing activities intended for renewal credit.

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