Licensed Practical Nurse Certification (LPN)
The LPN certification qualifies individuals to provide basic nursing care under the supervision of registered nurses and doctors. This certification involves completing a practical nursing program and passing the NCLEX-PN exam.
Total Cost
Estimated Budget
Median Salary
Annual Earnings
Job Growth
10-Year Outlook
Training Hours
Total Program Duration
Who Needs This Credential?
Individuals aspiring to enter the nursing field at an entry-level position in healthcare settings such as hospitals, long-term care facilities, and clinics need this certification.
Reciprocity varies by state. Most states participate in the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), allowing LPNs to practice in other NLC states without obtaining additional licenses.
Requirements
To become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), one must complete a state-approved educational program in practical nursing, pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN), and meet specific state requirements including background checks and health screenings.
- Minimum Age
- 18
- Minimum Education
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Training Hours
- Typically 1,500 hours
- Background Check
- Criminal history, professional conduct, and sometimes drug screening
Other Requirements
How to Become LPN Certified
Becoming a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) involves several key steps, typically completed within 1-2 years. The path includes education, exams, and licensing, each demanding specific requirements and fees.
Complete a State-approved LPN Program
Enroll in and complete an LPN program from a vocational school or community college. These programs usually include both classroom education and clinical practice.
Choose a program accredited by the National League for Nursing Commission for Nursing Education Accreditation (NLN CNEA) or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) for better job opportunities.
Apply for the NCLEX-PN Examination
After graduating, apply to take the NCLEX-PN. This is the national licensing exam for practical nurses, administered by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN).
Ensure all graduation documents are submitted promptly to avoid delays in application processing.
Prepare for the NCLEX-PN
Invest time in preparing for the NCLEX-PN exam, focusing on areas such as health promotion and maintenance, safe effective care environment, psychosocial integrity, and physiological integrity.
Consider using various study aids like practice tests, study groups, and review courses.
Pass the NCLEX-PN Exam
Take and pass the NCLEX-PN. The exam uses computer adaptive testing to measure competencies needed for entry-level nursing practices.
Get a good night's sleep before the exam and arrive early at the testing center.
Apply for State Licensure
Submit an application for licensure to the nursing board of the state where you plan to work. This typically involves submitting proof of education, passing the NCLEX-PN, and a background check.
Check specific state requirements as they can vary significantly.
Receive Your LPN License
Once your application is approved and all fees are paid, you will receive your LPN license and can begin practicing as a licensed practical nurse.
Keep a copy of all your submitted documents for your records.
Cost Breakdown
The total cost for becoming a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) varies significantly based on the training program and geographical location. Costs include tuition, examination fees, application processing, and background checks. Financial aid and employer sponsorship options are often available to help manage these expenses.
💰 Financial Aid Available
Many healthcare facilities offer sponsorship programs to cover tuition costs for employees willing to work at the facility for a certain period after graduation.
Salary & Career Outlook
Entry Level
$45,000
Median Salary
$62,340
Experienced
$76,000
Job Outlook: 2.6%
The modest growth in LPN employment can be attributed to an aging population requiring more healthcare services, alongside ongoing healthcare reforms that emphasize outpatient care, where LPNs are increasingly utilized. However, technological advancements and shifts towards higher qualifications might limit more significant growth.
Exam Information
The LPN exam assesses nursing knowledge and skills required for practical nursing licensure. It consists primarily of a written test, structured in multiple-choice format. Candidates should prepare by reviewing nursing concepts and taking practice exams.
National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN)
Administered by National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) • Fee: $200
Career Advancement Paths
Industry Insights
Data from Bureau of Labor Statistics & O*NET
Licensed Practical Nurses See Modest Growth: 17,100 New Positions by 2034
Current Employment
651,400
Projected
668,500
Growth Rate
+2.6%
New Positions
17,100
What's Driving Demand
The slight increase in LPN employment is driven mainly by the aging baby boomer population, increased prevalence of chronic conditions, and expanded healthcare access through policy reforms.
The Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) profession is projected to grow by 2.6% from 2024 to 2034, creating 17,100 new jobs. This growth reflects a steady, albeit slow, demand for healthcare services, particularly in settings that cater to an aging population. As technology and AI continue to permeate the healthcare sector, LPNs will find that certain aspects of their jobs may be augmented by automation, but critical elements such as patient interaction and complex decision-making will remain firmly in human hands. Demographic shifts and evolving policies also play significant roles in shaping the future of this profession. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for anyone considering a career as an LPN.
Long-Term Outlook
AI & Automation
low disruption riskAI and automation will streamline record-keeping and monitoring tasks, but cannot replace the empathetic, decision-making, and complex care responsibilities of LPNs.
2025-2035
Demographics
The aging U.S. population significantly boosts demand for LPNs, particularly in long-term care and assisted living facilities.
Key factor: Aging population
Policy & Regulation
Expansion of Medicare and Medicaid services and evolving state-specific licensing laws will continue to influence the employment landscape for LPNs.
Industry Shifts
The shift towards home-based care and telehealth are notable trends, creating new opportunities for LPNs outside traditional settings.
Top Skills
Service Orientation
78/100Coordination
75/100Social Perceptiveness
75/100Bottom Line
Individuals with a passion for hands-on patient care and who value stable, modest growth in their career should consider becoming an LPN.
State-by-State Variations
LPN requirements vary significantly across states, reflecting differences in education, exam standards, and continuing education requirements.
Most Strict
Most Accessible
Renewal Requirements
Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) must renew their licenses periodically to ensure they remain qualified and up-to-date with nursing practices. Renewal typically involves completing continuing education and paying a fee, highlighting the importance of maintaining professional standards and patient care quality.
Renewal Period
every 2 years
Renewal Cost
$100
CE Hours
24 hours
CE Topics: Patient Care, Ethics in Nursing
Additional late fee and potential temporary suspension of license until renewal is processed.
Get Started
Ready to pursue Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)? Find programs, connect with counselors, and explore your options.
Talk to a Counselor
Get personalized guidance on your certification path
Want to Talk to a Career Counselor?
Get personalized guidance on training programs, licensing requirements, and career opportunities.
Recommended Resources
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Exam Prep Practice Test
Practice questions for the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN) exam.
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Study Guide
Comprehensive study guide covering all Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) exam topics.
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Certification All-in-One
Everything you need to prepare for Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) certification.
As an Amazon Associate, CredentialGuide earns from qualifying purchases.
Are You a Training Provider?
List your programs on CredentialGuide and connect with students actively researching training options in your area.