CRNA Advanced Practice

Arkansas CRNA License Requirements

Complete guide to becoming a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist in Arkansas

Processing Time

4-8 weeks

Initial Cost

$125

Renewal Period

2 years

Practice Authority

full

Official source: licensing in Arkansas is administered by the Arkansas State Board of Nursing. This guide summarizes the board's requirements — always confirm details there before applying. Already licensed? Look up a nursing license in Arkansas.

Apply on Official Site

Full Practice Authority

CRNA: state has opted out of the CMS Medicare physician-supervision requirement (May 2022); CRNAs may administer anesthesia without physician supervision under Medicare. State scope of practice may add requirements.

Prescriptive Authority: CRNAs have their own statutory anesthesia drug authority: per A.C.A. 17-87-102(7)(B) may select, obtain, and administer Schedule II drugs perioperatively; 17-87-104(a)(1)(G) exempts CRNAs from needing a prescriptive-authority certificate/collaborative agreement for anesthesia care.

1 Education Requirements

Degree Required

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

Note: As of January 1, 2025, entry-level nurse anesthetist programs must be doctoral (DNP or DNAP). CRNAs educated prior to this date with an MSN remain eligible.

Program Requirements

Complete accredited Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist program
Hold active RN license in the state
Clinical hours as specified by program

2 National Certification

Certification Body

NBCRNA

Required

Yes

National Board of Certification and Recertification for Nurse Anesthetists

3 Fees

Initial Licensure

Application Fee	$125
Total	$125

Renewal

Renewal Fee (every 2 years)

$65

Continuing Education Requirements

Contact hours required

2 years

Renewal cycle

Pharmacology: 5 hours required

Prerequisites

To become a CRNA in Arkansas, you must first hold an active RN license and typically have ICU experience. Arkansas is a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), so you may hold a multistate RN license.

RN Requirements View Arkansas RN Requirements

Arkansas CRNA License FAQs

How much does a CRNA license cost in Arkansas?

Expect about $125 in total initial CRNA license costs in Arkansas, including a $125 application fee. Fees can change, so confirm current amounts with the Arkansas State Board of Nursing.

How many CE hours do CRNAs need to renew in Arkansas?

Arkansas CRNAs must complete 15 continuing education hours each 2-year renewal cycle. The renewal fee is $65.

How long does it take to get a CRNA license in Arkansas?

Most complete applications are processed in about 4 to 8 weeks, though background checks and application volume can extend the timeline.

Who issues CRNA licenses in Arkansas?

The Arkansas State Board of Nursing handles CRNA license applications, renewals, and verifications. You can reach the board at 501-686-2700.