Who regulates auto loans in Arkansas?

The Arkansas Securities Department oversees consumer lenders including auto finance companies. Visit securities.arkansas.gov for the license lookup and consumer resources.

Does Arkansas cap auto loan interest rates?

Yes — Arkansas's constitutional Amendment 89 sets a ceiling on consumer loan rates including auto loans. This limits some high-APR lenders from operating in the state.

Why are some auto lenders unavailable in Arkansas?

Arkansas's constitutional rate cap means lenders that charge above the cap elsewhere cannot operate here. Bank lenders, credit unions, and manufacturer finance arms (Ford Credit, GM Financial, Toyota Financial) typically operate within the cap.

What credit score do I need for an auto loan in Arkansas?

Most bank and credit union lenders start at 620 FICO. Given the rate cap, lenders active in Arkansas generally prefer mid-to-prime credit profiles.

How do I finance a car in Arkansas safely?

Verify your lender at securities.arkansas.gov, get pre-approved before dealership visits, and use the CFPB's auto loan resources at consumerfinance.gov/auto-loans/ to understand your financing agreement.

Auto Loans in Arkansas

Arkansas's constitutional rate cap protects auto loan borrowers from the highest-APR financing common in neighboring states. However, it also limits availability from some online direct lenders — bank and credit union financing is typically the strongest option here.

Current auto loan rate benchmarks

National averages from the Federal Reserve G.19 (live data) — commercial banks, new car loans. Not state-specific rates — not a rate quote. Your actual rate depends on credit score, down payment, vehicle, and lender.

60-Month New Car

7.52%

National avg, commercial banks — February 2026

72-Month New Car

7.55%

National avg, commercial banks — February 2026

Credit Unions

Typically 1–2 pts below banks

NCUA rate comparison →

Illustrative example — not a rate quote or offer

$35,000 loan · 60 months · 7.52% APR (Federal Reserve G.19 (live data) national benchmark)

Est. monthly