Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Colorado
This guide details the steps to become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Colorado, covering prerequisites, training, examination, and certification. The process typically takes 8-12 weeks, with costs ranging from $800 to $2,500. Key steps include verifying prerequisites, completing state-approved training, passing the NCLEX-PN exam, and obtaining state certification.
Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) in Colorado are part of a growing healthcare workforce with a median annual salary of $64,720. The national figures show a workforce of 651,400 LPNs, with a projected growth rate of 2.6% by 2034. Colorado offers a promising career landscape for LPNs, marked by competitive salaries and consistent job opportunities. This growth is driven by an aging population requiring increased healthcare services, making it a solid career choice for those interested in nursing.
Colorado's healthcare regulations and the structure of its health services make it a unique environment for LPNs. The state has specific licensing requirements that must be met, overseen by a dedicated regulatory body. Colorado's diverse healthcare settings, from urban hospitals in Denver to rural clinics in the Rockies, provide varied opportunities for LPNs. Major healthcare employers in the state include UCHealth and Centura Health, which operate numerous facilities across Colorado. These factors, combined with the state's focus on accessible healthcare, contribute to a dynamic job market for LPNs.
This guide provides detailed information on how to become a Licensed Practical Nurse in Colorado. Readers will learn about the specific steps required for licensing, including educational prerequisites, examination details, and the application process. The guide also covers salary ranges and factors affecting earnings, as well as insights into the job market, highlighting areas with the highest demand for LPNs. By detailing these aspects, the guide aims to equip prospective nurses with the knowledge needed to pursue this career path in Colorado effectively.
Licensing Authority
Department of Regulatory Agencies, Division of Professions & Occupations, Board of Nursing
In Colorado, Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) must meet specific educational, examination, and background check requirements set by the State Board of Nursing. The board ensures compliance with the Nurse Practice Act and oversees the licensing process.
Official Resources
Colorado Requirements
Training Requirements
- Education
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Total Training Hours
- 1350 hours
- Classroom Hours
- 1000 hours
- Clinical Hours
- 350 hours
- Minimum Age
- 18 years old
Additional Requirements
- Background check (State and federal) with fingerprinting
- Proof of citizenship or legal residency
Certification Exam
- Exam
- NCLEX-PN
- Components
- Written, Skills demonstration
- Fee
- 200
How to Become a Licensed Practical Nurse in Colorado
tuition $500-$2000, exam fee $200, background check $50, application fee $30, textbooks/supplies $20, scrubs $0-$200
Fastest Path
8 weeks
Typical Timeline
12 weeks
Estimated Cost
$800–$2500
Verify You Meet Colorado's Prerequisites
Begin by checking that you meet the prerequisites for becoming an LPN in Colorado. You must be at least 18 years old, have a high school diploma or GED, and be in good health. Visit the Colorado Board of Nursing website to download the checklist of requirements. This process should take about 1-2 days to gather all necessary documents and verify information.
Tip
Order your high school transcript online through Parchment.com ($15) to avoid a 2-week mail delay from your school's registrar office.
Complete Background Check and Health Screenings
Schedule a fingerprint appointment through Colorado Fingerprinting for an FBI background check. This process includes submitting fingerprints electronically and waiting for clearance. Additionally, complete a health screening, including a TB test and proof of immunizations. Results typically take 2-3 weeks. Disqualifying criminal offenses and health issues may require additional steps or waivers.
Tip
Schedule your fingerprinting appointment early to avoid delays.
Research and Choose an Approved Training Program
Identify a state-approved training program that meets the requirements: 1350 total hours with 1000 classroom hours and 350 clinical hours. Use the Colorado Board of Nursing's website to verify that the program is approved, ensuring eligibility to sit for the NCLEX-PN exam post-training. Attending a non-approved program may result in ineligibility for licensure.
Tip
Check for programs with high NCLEX-PN pass rates for graduates.
Enroll in and Complete Training
Once you've selected a state-approved program, enroll and complete the required 1350 hours of training, including 1000 classroom hours and 350 clinical hours. This step is crucial as it prepares you for the NCLEX-PN exam and your future role as an LPN. Completion times can vary based on whether you are attending full-time or part-time.
Tip
Ensure consistent attendance to meet all hour requirements without delay.
Prepare for the NCLEX-PN Exam
Begin preparing for the NCLEX-PN exam by reviewing the study materials and practice tests available through the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN). Focus on understanding the format, which includes a variable number of questions up to 205, with a 5-hour time limit. Utilize resources like practice exams to gauge your readiness.
Tip
Regularly schedule practice tests to track your progress and identify weak areas.
Register for and Schedule the NCLEX-PN Exam
Register for the NCLEX-PN exam through Pearson VUE, the official testing vendor. You'll need to pay the exam fee and schedule a test date. Registration is available online, and you should choose a date and location that are convenient for you. This process can be completed in a few hours, but preparation for choosing a date should be considered.
Tip
Choose a test date that allows ample time for preparation.
Take and Pass the NCLEX-PN Exam
On your scheduled exam date, arrive at the Pearson VUE test center with two forms of ID. The NCLEX-PN consists of a minimum of 85 to a maximum of 205 questions, with a 5-hour time limit. Results are typically available within 2-4 weeks. If you fail, you can re-register for the exam after a 45-day waiting period.
Tip
Arrive early to the testing center to allow time for check-in procedures.
Apply for State Certification and Registration
After passing the NCLEX-PN, apply for your LPN license through the Colorado Board of Nursing. This involves submitting proof of passing the exam, completing an application form, and paying the application fee. The process usually takes 2-4 weeks, after which you will receive your license and be listed on the state registry.
Tip
Double-check your application for accuracy to avoid processing delays.
Receive Your Certification and Verify on State Registry
Once your application is processed, you will receive your LPN certification. Verify your name and credentials on the Colorado Nursing Registry. This final step confirms your status as a Licensed Practical Nurse in Colorado, allowing you to seek employment. Verification is immediate upon updating the registry.
Tip
Regularly check the registry until your information appears.
Find Your First Job
Start your job search by visiting job boards like Indeed or LinkedIn, and check hospital and healthcare facility websites directly for openings. Consider roles that match your newly acquired LPN skills and preferences. Networking with classmates and instructors can also lead to job opportunities. Prepare for interviews and negotiate your salary based on the going rates for LPNs in Colorado.
Tip
Tailor your resume to highlight skills and experiences relevant to the LPN role.
Alternative Training Paths
Employer-Sponsored Training at Nursing Homes
Some nursing homes in Colorado offer employer-sponsored training programs for aspiring LPNs. These programs often cover tuition costs in exchange for a commitment to work at the facility for a specified period after licensure. This path is ideal for those looking to secure employment immediately after certification.
Best for: Individuals seeking immediate employment and willing to commit to a specific employer
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- •Attending a training program not on the Colorado Board of Nursing approved list. You will complete the program but be unable to sit for the state competency exam, wasting both your time and tuition money.
What to Expect on Exam Day
NCLEX-PN Examination administered by Pearson VUE
Written Test
Questions: 85 to 205 questions
Time Limit: Up to 5 hours
Format: Multiple choice, fill-in-the-blank, and multiple response
Passing Score: Pass/fail determined by a computerized adaptive testing system
- • Safe and Effective Care Environment: 23-26%
- • Health Promotion and Maintenance: 6-12%
- • Psychosocial Integrity: 9-15%
- • Physiological Integrity: 35-39%
Skills Test
Skills Tested: Not applicable
Time Per Skill: Included in overall time limit
The NCLEX-PN does not include a separate skills test; all assessments are integrated into the computerized exam.
What to Bring
- ✓ Authorization to Test (ATT) email
- ✓ Acceptable form of ID (e.g., driver's license, passport)
- ✓ Second form of signature ID
Do Not Bring
- ✗ Personal items including watches, wallets, and bags
- ✗ Electronic devices such as phones and smartwatches
- ✗ Food and drink
Day-of Timeline
Arrive 30 minutes early. Check-in takes approximately 15 minutes. Written test lasts up to 5 hours.
Getting Your Results
Results are sent by the Colorado Board of Nursing typically within 4 weeks. Check results via the official board website or receive them by mail.
If You Don't Pass
You can retake the exam after 45 days. Cost varies by retake. Colorado allows unlimited attempts within a year.
Exam Strategies
- 1. Answer every question, as there is no penalty for guessing.
- 2. Focus on the patient's safety and prioritize tasks in scenario-based questions.
- 3. Use elimination methods to narrow down choices in multiple-choice questions.
- 4. Manage your time effectively, aiming not to spend more than 1 minute per question on average.
Document Checklist
Every document you need from start to finish
1Before Training
High School Diploma or GED Certificate
From the educational institution attended · Varies · Varies
Official transcripts may be required; check with your LPN program for specifics.
Criminal Background Check
Colorado Bureau of Investigation · Approximately $39.50 · 2-3 weeks
Required for enrollment in most LPN programs.
Immunization Records
Personal physician or health department · Varies · Depends on healthcare provider
Typically includes MMR, Varicella, Hepatitis B, Tdap, and annual flu shots.
Tuberculosis Test Results
Personal physician or local clinic · Approximately $20-$50 · 48-72 hours
Some programs require a two-step test.
CPR Certification
American Red Cross or American Heart Association · Approximately $50-$100 · Varies by class availability
Must be Healthcare Provider level certification.
Application for LPN Training Program
Specific training program website or office · Varies by program · Immediate to a few weeks
Includes personal information, education history, and sometimes a personal statement.
2During Training
Course Registration Confirmation
LPN training program · Included in tuition · Immediate upon registration
Proof of enrollment in courses.
Liability Insurance Proof
Insurance provider · Varies · Immediate to a few days
Required for clinical rotations; may be provided by the program.
Clinical Rotation Assignments
LPN training program · Included in tuition · Varies by program schedule
Details locations and times for practical experience.
Progress Reports
LPN training program · Included in tuition · End of each term
Official documentation of course completion and grades.
3For the Exam
NCLEX-PN Registration
National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) website · Approximately $200
Must apply after completing educational requirements.
Authorization to Test (ATT)
Received via email from Pearson Vue after NCLEX registration · Included in NCLEX registration fee
Required to schedule the exam; valid for a limited time.
Photo ID
Government-issued (e.g., driver's license, passport) · Varies
Needed for identity verification on the day of the exam.
4For Certification
NCLEX-PN Exam Results
Provided by Pearson Vue · Included in exam fee
Official results sent within a few weeks of exam completion.
Application for LPN Licensure
Colorado Board of Nursing · Approximately $88
Submit after passing the NCLEX-PN.
Fingerprinting and Background Check
Approved vendor by the Colorado Board of Nursing · Approximately $39.50
Required for licensure; separate from earlier background checks.
Proof of Age and Lawful Presence
Government-issued ID, U.S. birth certificate, or passport · Varies
Must demonstrate that applicant is at least 17 years old.
After You're Certified: What's Next
Verify your status on the Colorado Board of Nursing registry. Obtain your LPN license certificate by downloading it from the DORA website or requesting a physical copy.
Finding Your First Job
Where to Look
- • Colorado Nursing Jobs board, Indeed, Glassdoor, and LinkedIn specific to healthcare roles in Colorado
Best Employers for New Grads
- • Hospitals, long-term care facilities, private clinics, and home health agencies. Hospitals often offer structured environments and regular shifts, while home health roles provide more flexible schedules but can involve more travel.
Resume Tip: Highlight clinical skills acquired during training, any internships or practicums, and soft skills like communication and empathy. Include certifications such as CPR.
Interview Tip: Describe a time you handled a stressful situation.How do you prioritize tasks?Explain how you would handle a disagreement with a coworker.What motivates you to work in healthcare?
Expected First-Year Salary
Typically, a new LPN in Colorado earns between $45,000 and $55,000 annually, depending on location and type of employer.
Career Advancement Path
Registered Nurse (RN)
Complete an accredited RN program and pass the NCLEX-RN exam.
Challenges to Prepare For
- • Handling emotional and physical stress, managing time effectively during shifts, adapting to different healthcare settings, and maintaining a work-life balance.
Licensed Practical Nurse Salary in Colorado
In Colorado, Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) earn a median annual salary of $64,720, which is significantly higher than the national median. This figure reflects a competitive pay scale in the state for this profession.
Entry Level
$45,670
0-1 years experience
Median Salary
$64,720
$31.12/hr · Bureau of Labor Statistics
Experienced
$77,870
5+ years experience
Compared to National Median
$59,730 national · ++8.4% in Colorado
Salary by Metro Area
Higher salaries reflect urban demand.
Slightly below state median.
Top-paying region for LPNs.
Salary by Employer Type
While LPN salaries in Colorado are above the national average, the state's higher cost of living, particularly in major metro areas, can offset these earnings.
Benefits & Compensation
Common benefits include health insurance, retirement plans, paid time off, and continuing education opportunities.
Salary Growth Outlook
Growth in the healthcare sector suggests potential for salary increases for LPNs in Colorado.
Salary Negotiation Tips
- •Research average salaries in specific Colorado regions to benchmark.
- •Highlight unique qualifications and experiences that enhance your value.
Job Market in Colorado
In Colorado, the job market for Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) is aligning with national trends, showing a moderate growth rate. The national growth rate from 2024 to 2034 stands at 2.6%, with Colorado expected to mirror this trend closely. Factors such as an aging population, increasing chronic disease prevalence, and expanded healthcare services in rural areas are driving demand in the state.
Top Hiring Areas
Larger healthcare facilities and population density
Growing healthcare sector
Increased healthcare services in rural settings
Top Hiring Industries
Best time to apply: Early spring and late fall, aligning with fiscal hiring cycles
Opportunities
- Specialization in areas like pediatric or geriatric care
- Pursuing further qualifications for career advancement
Challenges
- Competition from RNs for similar roles
- Limited advancement opportunities without further education
Training Programs in Colorado
Colorado offers diverse options for Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) training, including community colleges, vocational schools, and employer-sponsored programs.
Program Types Comparison
| Type | Duration | Cost | Format | Pros / Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Community College | 12 to 18 months | $5,000 to $15,000 | Hybrid |
|
| Vocational/Trade School | 12 to 18 months | $10,000 to $20,000 | In-person |
|
| Employer-Sponsored | Varies | Free | On-the-job |
|
Top Programs
Denver, Colorado
High NCLEX-PN pass rates and central location
Westminster, Colorado
Offers clinical experiences in diverse settings
Online & Hybrid Options
Many programs offer hybrid formats, combining online theory courses with in-person clinical practice.
How to Choose a Program
- •Check state board approval and NCLEX-PN pass rates to assess program quality.
Financial Aid & Free Training
Get free Licensed Practical Nurse program info for Colorado
Renewal Requirements
Renewal Period
Every 2 years
Renewal Fee
95
CE Hours
20 hours
Work requirement: None specified
CE Topics: Patient care, Ethics, New medical procedures
Out-of-State Reciprocity
Colorado allows Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) licensed in other states to receive licensure by endorsement if they meet specific criteria. This process considers the applicant's education, exam scores, and licensure history.
Requirements for Reciprocity
- Active LPN license in another state with similar or higher standards as Colorado
- Completion of an approved nursing education program equivalent to Colorado's requirements
- Passing score on the NCLEX-PN or SBTPE
- Proof of active practice as an LPN for at least two of the last five years, or completion of an approved refresher course
- Criminal background check
State Agreements
Colorado does not have specific reciprocity agreements with other states but recognizes LPN licenses from states with comparable licensure requirements.
Additional Exams
No additional exams are required if the applicant has passed the NCLEX-PN or SBTPE.
Application Process
Submit an application online via the Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies website, pay the required fees, provide verification of original state licensure, submit proof of continued competence, and complete a fingerprint-based criminal background check.
Fees
Application fee of $88, plus additional costs for fingerprinting and background checks.
Processing Time: Applications are typically processed within 4 to 6 weeks after all required documents and fees have been submitted.
Licensing Tips
Ensure all documents are complete and accurate to avoid delays in processing.
Stay updated on renewal requirements to maintain active status.
Recommended Resources
NCLEX-PN Practice Questions Exam Cram
Provides over 1000 practice questions and answers, simulating the actual exam format for LPN candidates.
Saunders Comprehensive Review for the NCLEX-PN Examination
Includes detailed practice questions and test-taking strategies to help users prepare for the NCLEX-PN.
Lippincott Review for NCLEX-PN
Covers all nursing content areas with practice questions, rationales, and test-taking strategies.
Mosby's Comprehensive Review of Practical Nursing for the NCLEX-PN Exam
Features a full-length practice test and more than 3200 practice questions.
Littmann Classic III Stethoscope
Used for monitoring and assessing a wide range of patients; durable and reliable for training purposes.
Nursing Scrubs
Required attire for clinical training to ensure hygiene and compliance with hospital standards.
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Sources
- Bureau of Labor StatisticsAccessed 2026-02-07
- Colorado Licensing BoardAccessed 2026-02-07
- CareerOneStopAccessed 2026-02-07