Arkansas Captain's License

OUPV (Six-Pack) and Master credentials for charter operators in Arkansas.

TL;DR

Arkansas does not issue its own captain's license — the credential is the federal USCG OUPV or Master license. The nearest USCG Regional Examination Center is Memphis, TN. Arkansas guides typically pursue OUPV Inland for navigable inland waters. The Mississippi River is a Western River subject to specific rules under 33 CFR Subchapter E.

The credentials charter captains pursue in Arkansas

OUPV Inland (Six-Pack) — operates uninspected ≤6-passenger charter boats inside COLREGs demarcation lines (bays, sounds, lakes, rivers).
Master 25 GT — small-vessel inspected master, common for harbour tour boats and inland sightseeing.

Charter hubs in Arkansas

Lake Ouachita
Bull Shoals Lake
Beaver Lake
Mississippi River

Path to the license

Document at least 360 days of sea service — see our sea-time requirements guide. 90 of those must be within the last 3 years.
Pass a USCG-approved physical (CG-719K) and drug test (CG-719P).
Submit your application package to the National Maritime Center.
Schedule and pass the written exam at REC Memphis, TN, or at any USCG-approved third-party course that grants exam authority.
Complete the TWIC card application and CPR/First Aid certification before the credential is issued.

Nearby state guides

Start studying — free during early access

The federal exam is the same nationwide. CaptainsGround drills you against citation-backed questions from 33/46 CFR, COLREGs, and Bowditch.