Last Updated:November 6, 2024|Reflects current Arkansas ACLB $10,000 bond requirements

✓ 2025 ACLB Requirements Verified

Arkansas Contractor License Bond Requirements

Name: Arkansas Arkansas Contractor License Bond
Brand: BuySuretyBonds.com
Availability: InStock

Get your Arkansas contractor bond instantly. Required $10,000 bond for all commercial license classifications. Our instant approval system serves contractors statewide. Join 18,000+ Arkansas contractors who trust our Circular 570 approved carrier network.

$10,000

Bond Amount

Instant

Approval

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Arkansas ACLB License Requirements

Complete requirements for Arkansas contractor licensing

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License Requirements

$10,000

Bond Amount (All Classifications)

Arkansas Contractors Licensing Board (ACLB) registration required

Commercial contract work valued at $50,000 or more

$10,000 contractor license bond (all classifications)

Bond must be countersigned by resident agent in Arkansas

General liability insurance required

Workers compensation insurance or exemption certificate

Trade exam required for all license classifications

Business and law exam required

Valid Arkansas business registration

No continuing education required

Legal Authority

Governing Statute

Arkansas Code Annotated § 17-25-101 to § 17-25-409

View Arkansas Code Annotated

ACLB Contact Information

Phone: (501) 372-4661

Address: 4100 Richards Road, North Little Rock, AR 72117

Visit ACLB Official Site

Processing Times

4-6 weeks

Initial

2-3 weeks

Renewal

Scope: Specific trades

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How to Get Your Arkansas Contractor Bond

Fast approval process in 3 simple steps

Complete Online Application

Provide basic business information and license details. Takes just 5 minutes.

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Arkansas Construction Markets

Northwest Arkansas

Bentonville: Walmart HQ
Rogers: Retail suppliers
Springdale: Processing facilities
Fayetteville: University of Arkansas

Crystal Bridges Museum district construction drives regional growth.

Central & East Arkansas

Little Rock: State capital
North Little Rock: Banking sector
Conway: University of Central AR
Jonesboro: Agricultural facilities

Arkansas River waterfront development creates mixed-use opportunities.

Regional Markets

Fort Smith: Oklahoma border market
Hot Springs: Tourism facilities
Pine Bluff: Port infrastructure
Mountain Home: Retirement communities

Walmart supply chain drives distribution center construction statewide.

Arkansas Contractor License Bond FAQs

Common questions about ACLB bond requirements

What is the Arkansas contractor bond requirement?

Arkansas requires a $10,000 contractor license bond for all commercial contractor classifications under Arkansas Code § 17-25-401 through § 17-25-409. The bond protects consumers from contractor violations and ensures compliance with state regulations. The bond must be countersigned by a resident agent in Arkansas.

Who needs an Arkansas contractor license?

You need an Arkansas contractor license for commercial contract work valued at $50,000 or more in labor and materials. This includes general contractors (C-1, C-2, C-3) and specialty contractors. The license is issued by the Arkansas Contractors Licensing Board (ACLB).

How much does an Arkansas contractor bond cost?

Arkansas contractor bonds cost $100-$250 annually for the $10,000 bond amount. Cost depends on credit score and business financials. Most contractors with good credit pay around $150 per year. No credit check options available for qualified applicants.

Does Arkansas require a contractor exam?

Yes, Arkansas requires contractors to pass both a business and law exam plus a trade-specific exam for their license classification. The exams test knowledge of Arkansas construction law, business practices, and technical trade skills. Exam preparation courses are available.

What does "countersigned by resident agent" mean?

Arkansas law requires contractor bonds to be countersigned by a resident agent - a surety agent licensed and residing in Arkansas. This ensures local accountability and makes it easier for claimants to access the bond. Most surety companies have Arkansas resident agents who handle this requirement.

What is the difference between C-1, C-2, and C-3 licenses?

C-1 (General Building) covers all building construction. C-2 (General Residential) covers residential structures only. C-3 (General Highway) covers highway, street, bridge, and heavy construction. All three require the same $10,000 bond but have different scope and exam requirements.

Can I work in other states with an Arkansas contractor license?

No, Arkansas has no reciprocity with other states. Each state requires separate contractor licenses with their own bonding and exam requirements. You must obtain individual licenses in each state where you work, including neighboring states like Missouri, Tennessee, Mississippi, Louisiana, Texas, and Oklahoma.

What happens if I contract without an Arkansas license?

Unlicensed contracting in Arkansas for projects over $50,000 is a Class A misdemeanor punishable by fines up to $2,500 and possible jail time up to 1 year. Unlicensed contractors cannot sue for payment and may face additional civil penalties. The ACLB actively investigates complaints.

Do Arkansas cities require additional contractor licenses?

Yes, many Arkansas cities require separate business licenses beyond the state contractor license. Little Rock, Fayetteville, Fort Smith, Springdale, and other cities have their own registration and permit requirements. Always check local requirements before starting work.

How long does Arkansas contractor licensing take?

Arkansas contractor licensing typically takes 4-6 weeks for initial applications after passing exams and submitting all required documents. Processing time depends on completeness of application and current ACLB workload. Bonds can be obtained instantly while waiting for license approval.