Arkansas Fire Protection Board

Arkansas Fire Protection Licensing Board

Last checked: 2026-10-12. This guide to the Arkansas Fire Protection Licensing Board covers exact license classes, fees, exams and passing scores, insurance, renewals, required forms, reciprocity, and contacts. All facts are verified to official rules, statutes, and application packets.

What the Arkansas Fire Protection Licensing Board regulates

The Board, created under A.C.A. 20-22-601 et seq., licenses firms and individuals that install, inspect, service, and test portable fire extinguishers, fixed fire suppression systems, and fire protection sprinkler systems, and it adopts the Arkansas Fire Prevention Code (AFPC). ([law.justia.com](https://law.justia.com/codes/arkansas/title-20/subtitle-2/chapter-22/subchapter-6/section-20-22-607/?utm_source=openai))

License types and scope (official)

Portable/Fixed systems – individual license classes

• Portable fire extinguisher
• Fixed fire protection system – carbon dioxide
• Fixed fire protection system – wet/dry
• Fixed fire protection system – clean agent
• Fixed fire protection system – halon
• Hydrostatic test – Class A
• Hydrostatic test – Class B

These are the official individual license categories issued by the Board for portable and fixed systems. ([codeofarrules.arkansas.gov](https://codeofarrules.arkansas.gov/Rules/Rule?chapterID=253&levelType=section&partID=1199§ionID=44128&subChapterID=316&subPartID=6793&titleID=20&utm_source=openai))

Sprinkler systems – firm and individual credentials

• Sprinkler Firm Certificate of Registration (main and branch)
• Responsible Managing Employee (RME)
• Inspector
• Fitter
• Sprinkler Apprentice Permit

These credentials and their requirements are established in the Board’s Sprinkler Rule. ([labor.arkansas.gov](https://www.labor.arkansas.gov/wp-content/uploads/2022_Sprinkler_Rule.pdf))

Fees (current in rule)

Portable/Fixed systems fees

Official fee schedule: 20 CAR § 900-301. ([codeofarrules.arkansas.gov](https://codeofarrules.arkansas.gov/Rules/Rule?chapterID=253&levelType=section&partID=1199§ionID=44133&subChapterID=316&subPartID=6794&titleID=20))

Sprinkler systems fees

Official sprinkler fee and renewal provisions: Sprinkler Rule §5. ([labor.arkansas.gov](https://www.labor.arkansas.gov/wp-content/uploads/2022_Sprinkler_Rule.pdf))

Exams and passing scores

• Exams are given at least once per month; candidates schedule with the Board. ([webftp.blr.arkansas.gov](https://webftp.blr.arkansas.gov/Home/FTPDocument?path=CAR%2FParts%2F20CARpt901.pdf))
• Two open‑book exams are required for individual sprinkler licenses (fitter/inspector): (1) an NFPA‑based exam; and (2) a statutes/rules exam. Passing scores: 80% for the inspector exam; 70% for the fitter exam; and 80% for the statutes/rules exam. RME applicants are exempt from the NFPA‑based exam. ([webftp.blr.arkansas.gov](https://webftp.blr.arkansas.gov/Home/FTPDocument?path=CAR%2FParts%2F20CARpt901.pdf))

Portable/Fixed individual applicants test for the appropriate license per the Portable/Fixed Rule. The Board (via CareerTech) also publishes the specific NFPA titles/editions used for certain exams (e.g., NFPA 10; a Portable/Fixed rules/A.C.A. exam). Always verify editions when you register. ([law.cornell.edu](https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/arkansas/235-14-20-Ark-Code-R-002?utm_source=openai))

Experience, NICET, and firm prerequisites

Sprinkler RME

• NICET Level III or IV in Water‑Based Layout; or BS in Fire Protection (or FP Engineering Technology) plus 3 years sprinkler layout; or other Board‑approved certification. ([webftp.blr.arkansas.gov](https://webftp.blr.arkansas.gov/Home/FTPDocument?path=CAR%2FParts%2F20CARpt901.pdf))

Sprinkler Inspector or Fitter

• EITHER 6,000 hours of sprinkler experience attested by your firm’s RME; OR completion of the USDOL 3‑year Sprinkler Fitter apprenticeship (for Fitter); OR NICET Level II in Inspection & Testing of Water‑Based Systems; OR other Board‑approved certification. ([labor.arkansas.gov](https://www.labor.arkansas.gov/wp-content/uploads/2022_Sprinkler_Rule.pdf))

Portable/Fixed individual licenses

Applicants must be employed by a certified firm and meet training requirements (e.g., manufacturer training or affidavits, as applicable) under the Portable/Fixed Rule. ([regulations.justia.com](https://regulations.justia.com/states/arkansas/agency-228/arkansas-fire-protection-licensing-board-rules-and-regulations-for-portable-fixed-systems/?utm_source=openai))

Required insurance (firms)

Minimum liability insurance: $1,000,000 per occurrence for bodily injury AND $100,000 per occurrence for property damage, or a $1,000,000 single limit for BI/PD. Proof must be on file with the Board and kept current. ([law.justia.com](https://law.justia.com/codes/arkansas/title-20/subtitle-2/chapter-22/subchapter-6/section-20-22-611/?utm_source=openai))

Renewals, CE, and tags

• Renewal cycle (Sprinkler): All sprinkler certificates, licenses, and permits must be renewed annually by June 30; late renewals up to two years incur scaled multipliers (1.5×, 2×, 3×). After two years expired, re‑examination is required. ([labor.arkansas.gov](https://www.labor.arkansas.gov/wp-content/uploads/2022_Sprinkler_Rule.pdf))
• Renewal (Portable/Fixed): Annual renewals per fee schedule; confirm expiration on your license and renewal notice. ([codeofarrules.arkansas.gov](https://codeofarrules.arkansas.gov/Rules/Rule?chapterID=253&levelType=section&partID=1199§ionID=44133&subChapterID=316&subPartID=6794&titleID=20))
• Continuing education: The Board’s rules do not prescribe CE hour totals. However, sprinkler RMEs/inspectors often maintain NICET credentials, which require Continuing Professional Development for recertification; follow NICET CPD policy. ([nicet.org](https://www.nicet.org/about-us/policies/policy30/policy30op/?utm_source=openai))
• Inspection/testing and tags (Sprinkler): Work must follow AFPC and NFPA standards. Hydrostatic testing at 200 psi for 2 hours, required use of NFPA 25 forms, and red/yellow tagging and AHJ notifications for impairments apply. ([labor.arkansas.gov](https://www.labor.arkansas.gov/wp-content/uploads/2022_Sprinkler_Rule.pdf))

Official forms and applications

• Application – Examination (individual) [Board form]. ([labor.arkansas.gov](https://labor.arkansas.gov/wp-content/uploads/Application-Examination-.pdf?utm_source=openai))
• Application – Portable/Fixed Firm & Branch Registration. ([labor.arkansas.gov](https://labor.arkansas.gov/wp-content/uploads/Application-Portable-Fixed-Firm-Branch-Registration-.pdf?utm_source=openai))
• Application – Sprinkler Firm & Branch Registration. ([labor.arkansas.gov](https://labor.arkansas.gov/wp-content/uploads/Application-Sprinkler-Firm-Branch-Registration-.pdf?utm_source=openai))
• Apprentice Permit; Renewal – Individual; Renewal – Firm (Portable/Fixed); Renewal – Firm (Sprinkler); Change/Duplicate/Transfer; Inspector/Fitter Affidavits (index page of Board forms). ([labor.arkansas.gov](https://labor.arkansas.gov/licensing/fire-protection-licensing-board/forms/?utm_source=openai))

Step‑by‑step application checklist

For new sprinkler firms

1. Confirm proposed firm name acceptability with the Board (names that may confuse the public are not approved). ([webftp.blr.arkansas.gov](https://webftp.blr.arkansas.gov/Home/FTPDocument?path=CAR%2FParts%2F20CARpt901.pdf))
2. Form/register your entity and, if foreign, register with the Arkansas Secretary of State. ([labor.arkansas.gov](https://labor.arkansas.gov/wp-content/uploads/Application-Sprinkler-Firm-Branch-Registration-.pdf?utm_source=openai))
3. Hire/designate a full‑time RME meeting NICET III/IV (or equivalent) and gather proof. ([webftp.blr.arkansas.gov](https://webftp.blr.arkansas.gov/Home/FTPDocument?path=CAR%2FParts%2F20CARpt901.pdf))
4. Obtain liability insurance meeting A.C.A. 20‑22‑611 and secure the declarations page. ([law.justia.com](https://law.justia.com/codes/arkansas/title-20/subtitle-2/chapter-22/subchapter-6/section-20-22-611/?utm_source=openai))
5. Prepare samples (not copies) of service tags/placards and the hydraulic placard design. ([labor.arkansas.gov](https://labor.arkansas.gov/wp-content/uploads/Application-Sprinkler-Firm-Branch-Registration-.pdf?utm_source=openai))
6. Submit the Sprinkler Firm/Branch application with fees; include an individual application for every employee who must be licensed. ([labor.arkansas.gov](https://www.labor.arkansas.gov/wp-content/uploads/2022_Sprinkler_Rule.pdf))
7. Schedule any required exams (at least monthly) for individual applicants. ([webftp.blr.arkansas.gov](https://webftp.blr.arkansas.gov/Home/FTPDocument?path=CAR%2FParts%2F20CARpt901.pdf))

For portable/fixed firms

1. Form/register the entity and secure required liability insurance. ([law.justia.com](https://law.justia.com/codes/arkansas/title-20/subtitle-2/chapter-22/subchapter-6/section-20-22-611/?utm_source=openai))
2. Ensure technicians meet manufacturer/Board training rules. ([law.cornell.edu](https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/arkansas/agency-228/arkansas-fire-protection-licensing-board-rules-and-regulations-for-portable-fixed-systems?utm_source=openai))
3. Submit the Portable/Fixed Firm & Branch application with fees and required tag/label samples. ([labor.arkansas.gov](https://labor.arkansas.gov/wp-content/uploads/Application-Portable-Fixed-Firm-Branch-Registration-.pdf?utm_source=openai))
4. Ensure each individual applies for the appropriate license and exams. ([regulations.justia.com](https://regulations.justia.com/states/arkansas/agency-228/arkansas-fire-protection-licensing-board-rules-and-regulations-for-portable-fixed-systems/?utm_source=openai))

Expected timelines

• Exams are offered at least monthly; contact the Board to schedule. ([webftp.blr.arkansas.gov](https://webftp.blr.arkansas.gov/Home/FTPDocument?path=CAR%2FParts%2F20CARpt901.pdf))
• The Board conducts at least four regular meetings per year; processing varies by completeness and meeting cycles. For military and reciprocity applicants, temporary licenses may be issued immediately upon receipt of required documentation. Always confirm current timing with staff. ([labor.arkansas.gov](https://www.labor.arkansas.gov/wp-content/uploads/2022_Sprinkler_Rule.pdf))

Common reasons for delay or denial

• Falsified or incomplete applications; nonpayment of required fees. ([webftp.blr.arkansas.gov](https://webftp.blr.arkansas.gov/Home/FTPDocument?path=CAR%2FParts%2F20CARpt901.pdf))
• Lack of required liability insurance on file. ([webftp.blr.arkansas.gov](https://webftp.blr.arkansas.gov/Home/FTPDocument?path=CAR%2FParts%2F20CARpt901.pdf))
• Applicant not employed by a certified firm; RME not full‑time. ([webftp.blr.arkansas.gov](https://webftp.blr.arkansas.gov/Home/FTPDocument?path=CAR%2FParts%2F20CARpt901.pdf))
• Failure to meet NICET/experience prerequisites; failing exam scores. ([webftp.blr.arkansas.gov](https://webftp.blr.arkansas.gov/Home/FTPDocument?path=CAR%2FParts%2F20CARpt901.pdf))

Reciprocity, provisional and military temporary licensing

• Reciprocity: Out‑of‑state applicants with substantially similar licenses in good standing may obtain Arkansas licensure after passing the Arkansas state exam and meeting documentation requirements. ([labor.arkansas.gov](https://www.labor.arkansas.gov/wp-content/uploads/2022_Sprinkler_Rule.pdf))
• Temporary license (reciprocity): Director may issue a 90‑day temporary license immediately upon satisfactory proof of good standing and similarity while the full application is processed. ([labor.arkansas.gov](https://www.labor.arkansas.gov/wp-content/uploads/2022_Sprinkler_Rule.pdf))
• Applicants from states without licensing: Must meet the Board’s least restrictive requirements, pass the NFPA‑based and Arkansas exams, and provide proof of applicable NICET level. ([labor.arkansas.gov](https://www.labor.arkansas.gov/wp-content/uploads/2022_Sprinkler_Rule.pdf))
• Military expedited/temporary licensing: Immediate temporary license upon documentation; renewals extended 180 days after return from deployment. ([labor.arkansas.gov](https://www.labor.arkansas.gov/wp-content/uploads/2022_Sprinkler_Rule.pdf))

Inspection, testing, and AHJ notifications

• AFPC 2021 is adopted statewide; inspections/testing must follow adopted codes and referenced NFPA standards. ([codes.iccsafe.org](https://codes.iccsafe.org/content/ARFPCVIF2021P1/state-of-arkansas-arkansas-fire-prevention-code-rules-2021-edition?utm_source=openai))
• NFPA 25 sample forms are approved; other forms allowed if fully compliant. ([labor.arkansas.gov](https://www.labor.arkansas.gov/wp-content/uploads/2022_Sprinkler_Rule.pdf))
• Hydrostatic test for sprinkler piping: 200 psi for 2 hours; red/yellow tagging procedures and AHJ notification timelines apply for impairments. ([labor.arkansas.gov](https://www.labor.arkansas.gov/wp-content/uploads/2022_Sprinkler_Rule.pdf))

Contact the Arkansas Fire Protection Licensing Board

Arkansas Department of Labor & Licensing – Arkansas Fire Protection Licensing Board, 900 West Capitol Ave., Suite 400, Little Rock, AR 72201. Phone: (501) 661‑7903. Staff emails commonly listed on current application forms include Patricia.L.White@arkansas.gov, Katherine.Dunford@arkansas.gov, and Sarah.Johnson@arkansas.gov. Always use the most current contact shown on the latest Board forms. ([discover.ar.gov](https://www.discover.ar.gov/_docs/Publications/Licensed-Occupations/DLO-2024.pdf?utm_source=openai))

FAQ

• What license do I need for CO₂, clean agent, or halon systems?
• How much are the current Board fees?
• What exams do I take and what score do I need?
• What insurance limits are required?
• When are renewals due?
• Does Arkansas offer reciprocity or temporary licenses?
• Where do I download the official forms?

Helpful resources

• Official forms index (Application—Exam; Firm/Branch; Apprentice; Renewals; Affidavits). ([labor.arkansas.gov](https://labor.arkansas.gov/licensing/fire-protection-licensing-board/forms/?utm_source=openai))
• Sprinkler Rule (2022) – fees, renewals (June 30), reciprocity, military temporary licensing. ([labor.arkansas.gov](https://www.labor.arkansas.gov/wp-content/uploads/2022_Sprinkler_Rule.pdf))
• Portable/Fixed Rules – license classes, training/affidavits, procedures. ([regulations.justia.com](https://regulations.justia.com/states/arkansas/agency-228/arkansas-fire-protection-licensing-board-rules-and-regulations-for-portable-fixed-systems/?utm_source=openai))
• Fee schedule in rule (Portable/Fixed). ([codeofarrules.arkansas.gov](https://codeofarrules.arkansas.gov/Rules/Rule?chapterID=253&levelType=section&partID=1199§ionID=44133&subChapterID=316&subPartID=6794&titleID=20))
• Insurance requirement in statute (A.C.A. 20‑22‑611). ([law.justia.com](https://law.justia.com/codes/arkansas/title-20/subtitle-2/chapter-22/subchapter-6/section-20-22-611/?utm_source=openai))
• AFPC 2021 online (adopted code reference). ([codes.iccsafe.org](https://codes.iccsafe.org/content/ARFPCVIF2021P1/state-of-arkansas-arkansas-fire-prevention-code-rules-2021-edition?utm_source=openai))

Related License Navigator guides

• Fire Protection Contractor License: Explained
• Fire Protection Contractor Licensing Guide

Requirements last verified: 2026-10-12.