Transferring your teaching license from Oklahoma to Arkansas
Transfer pathway available — expect Arkansas exams + likely an interim license
Oklahoma and Arkansas both participate in the NASDTEC Interstate Agreement, so a transfer pathway exists — but it isn't automatic. Expect Arkansas's certification exams (such as the Praxis Core Academic Skills) and often a time-limited interim license while you complete any remaining requirements.
See 353 open teaching jobs in Arkansas →License transfer finder
Your current credential (Oklahoma)
- Issuing authority
- Oklahoma State Department of Education
- License type
- Standard Teaching Certificate (5 years)
- Reciprocity policy
- Oklahoma participates in the NASDTEC compact. Out-of-state educators with valid certificates may receive an Oklahoma certificate; OSAT content exams are typically still required.
Arkansas certification
- Issuing authority
- Arkansas Division of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE)
- License you'll earn
- Standard License (5 years)
- Typical timeline
- 12–18 months through a traditional program; 2–3 years through NLP while teaching
- Arkansas reciprocity policy
- Arkansas participates in the NASDTEC Interstate Agreement. Reciprocity available for educators with valid out-of-state certificates.
Exams typically required in Arkansas
Out-of-state applicants are usually asked to demonstrate content-area knowledge on Arkansas's preferred exams, even when basic-skills testing is waived through reciprocity. Plan for one or more of the following:
- Praxis Core Academic SkillsBasic reading, writing, and math skills
- Praxis Subject AssessmentsContent knowledge for your endorsement area
Pass the Praxis exam
Mometrix study guide & practice tests for the Praxis — prep with confidence.
Steps to transfer your license
- Verify your Oklahoma credential is current. Arkansas will request a verification of your active Standard Teaching Certificate from Oklahoma State Department of Education.
- Apply through Arkansas Division of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE). The application packet typically includes official transcripts, prior teaching service verification, and a fingerprint-based background check.
- Sit for any Arkansas-specific exams. Most states honor out-of-state content-area exams when scores meet their cutoff, but Arkansas may require an additional jurisprudence or state-specific assessment.
- Apply to Arkansas districts that match your endorsement. We're currently tracking 353 active openings — browse Arkansas teaching jobs to start identifying districts.
Common questions
Can I teach in Arkansas with a Oklahoma teaching license?
Oklahoma and Arkansas both participate in the NASDTEC Interstate Agreement, so a transfer pathway exists — but it isn't automatic. Expect Arkansas's certification exams (such as the Praxis Core Academic Skills) and often a time-limited interim license while you complete any remaining requirements.
What exams are required to teach in Arkansas?
Arkansas typically requires the Praxis Core Academic Skills exam(s) for your subject area.
How long does transferring a teaching license to Arkansas take?
Typically 12–18 months through a traditional program; 2–3 years through NLP while teaching.
Who issues teaching licenses in Arkansas?
Teaching licenses in Arkansas are issued by Arkansas Division of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE).