(a)

1. (1) Applicants for licensure shall:

   1. (A) File applications under oath with the Department of Human Services, upon forms prescribed by the department; and
   2. (B) Pay the required licensure fee, as outlined in Arkansas Code § 20-10-404.
2. (2) The application and fee shall be mailed to the department at the address provided by the department or through the means provided by the department.

3. (3)

   1. (A) The application must be accompanied by the applicant’s criminal background check results.
   2. (B) The applicant’s criminal background check must be completed by the Division of Arkansas State Police.
   3. (C) The applicant is responsible for all costs related to obtaining the criminal background check results.
4. (4) If the application is approved, the applicant has eighteen (18) months from the date of approval to become licensed.

5. (5) Half of the licensure fee shall be refunded to the applicant if the department denies licensure because:

   1. (A) The application is not approved;
   2. (B) The applicant does not pass the exams; or
   3. (C) Any other reason deemed appropriate by the department.

(b) Pursuant to Arkansas Code § 17-5-104, individuals may be granted a licensing fee waiver if they:

1. (1) Have been receiving assistance through the:

   1. (A) Arkansas Medicaid Program;
   2. (B) Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program;
   3. (C) Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children;
   4. (D) Temporary Assistance for Needy Families Program; or
   5. (E) Lifeline Assistance Program;
2. (2) Were approved for unemployment within the last twelve (12) months; or
3. (3) Have an income that does not exceed two hundred percent (200%) of the federal poverty income guidelines.

(c) The waiver of the initial fee does not include fees for:

1. (1) A criminal background check;
2. (2) An examination or a test; or
3. (3) A medical or drug test.