Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Idaho
This guide details the process to become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Idaho, covering prerequisites, training, and certification steps. The entire process can take anywhere from 4 to 20 weeks depending on the chosen training schedule, with costs ranging from $800 to $2,500. Key steps include meeting state prerequisites, completing state-approved training, passing the competency exam, and obtaining state certification.
The role of a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Idaho presents significant opportunities for those interested in a stable and rewarding career in healthcare. With a median salary of $55,610 per year and a workforce of 651,400 nationally, the demand for LPNs is evident. The job market for LPNs in Idaho is expected to grow by 2.6% by 2034, reflecting the ongoing need for healthcare professionals capable of providing essential nursing care in various settings.
Idaho offers a unique environment for LPNs due to its specific state regulations and the structure of its healthcare system. The state's major healthcare providers, including hospitals and long-term care facilities, frequently seek qualified LPNs. Regional factors such as rural healthcare delivery challenges and the distribution of medical services also influence the demand and roles of LPNs in Idaho. These elements combined create a dynamic job market tailored to the skills and certifications of LPNs, governed by Idaho's Board of Nursing which oversees the licensing process.
This guide provides detailed information on how to become a licensed LPN in Idaho, including the necessary steps to obtain certification and maintain licensure. Readers will gain insights into salary expectations based on regional data and understand the state-specific job market dynamics. Additionally, this guide addresses the practical aspects of training, examinations, and continuing education requirements essential for LPNs in Idaho. By offering a clear pathway to entering and progressing in the field, this guide serves as a valuable resource for aspiring nurses in Idaho.
Licensing Authority
Idaho Board of Nursing
In Idaho, Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) must obtain licensure through the Idaho Board of Nursing by meeting specific educational, examination, and background requirements. There are no continuing education requirements for license renewal.
Official Resources
Idaho Requirements
Training Requirements
- Education
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Total Training Hours
- 1200 hours
- Classroom Hours
- 600 hours
- Clinical Hours
- 600 hours
- Minimum Age
- 18 years old
Additional Requirements
- Background check (State and federal) with fingerprinting
- Submission of official transcripts
Certification Exam
- Exam
- NCLEX-PN
- Components
- Written, Skills demonstration
- Fee
- Approximately $200
How to Become a Licensed Practical Nurse in Idaho
tuition $500-$2,000, exam fee $200, background check $50, application fee $50, textbooks/supplies $0-$200, scrubs $0-$50
Fastest Path
4-6 weeks
Typical Timeline
8-12 weeks
Estimated Cost
$800–$2,500
Verify You Meet Idaho's Prerequisites
Check that you meet the age, education, and health prerequisites for an LPN in Idaho. You must be at least 18 years old, have a high school diploma or GED, and pass a health screening including a TB test. Visit the Idaho Board of Nursing website to download the necessary forms and check for updates on requirements. Processing times for document verification can take up to a week.
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
Obtain a fingerprint-based background check through the Idaho State Police and an FBI check. You can schedule fingerprinting at local police stations or through approved LiveScan locations found on the Idaho State Police website. Health screenings must include a recent TB test and may include other screenings as specified by the training program. Background results typically take 2-4 weeks to process.
Tip
Schedule your fingerprinting appointment early in the process to avoid delays in background check results.
Research and Choose an Approved Training Program
Identify a state-approved LPN training program in Idaho that meets the required 1200 total hours, split evenly between classroom and clinical hours. Use the Idaho Board of Nursing's online directory to verify that the program is approved. Attending a non-approved program will result in ineligibility to sit for the licensing exam, wasting both time and money. Contact programs directly to inquire about start dates, costs, and any additional requirements.
Tip
Contact multiple programs to compare costs and schedules that best fit your needs.
Enroll in and Complete Training
Once you have chosen an approved program, complete the enrollment process, which may include submitting transcripts, health records, and proof of prerequisites. The program must consist of 600 classroom hours and 600 clinical hours. Make sure to attend all sessions and complete all assignments to meet the program requirements. Upon completion, you will receive a certificate or diploma verifying your eligibility to take the state competency exam.
Tip
Keep a detailed log of your clinical hours in case of discrepancies with your training program's records.
Prepare for the Competency Exam
Begin studying for the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN). Utilize study guides, past exam papers, and online practice tests to familiarize yourself with the exam format and content. The exam includes a written test covering practical nursing skills and knowledge. Pearson VUE administers the exam, and you can find study resources and practice tests on their website.
Tip
Take multiple practice exams under timed conditions to simulate the actual test environment.
Register for and Schedule the Exam
After completing your training, register for the NCLEX-PN through Pearson VUE. You will need to provide proof of your training program completion. Choose a test date and location that best fits your schedule. The cost of the exam is $200, and you must pay during the registration process. Ensure all personal information is accurate to avoid issues on test day.
Tip
Choose a test date that allows you ample time for review and travel.
Take and Pass the Exam
On the day of the exam, arrive at the test center early with two forms of ID and your ATT (Authorization to Test) letter. The NCLEX-PN consists of up to 145 questions with a time limit of 5 hours. If you fail, you can reapply to take the exam after 45 days. Passing scores are determined by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing and are not disclosed to candidates.
Tip
Ensure you have all required documents a day before the exam to avoid last-minute stress.
Apply for State Certification/Registry
After passing the NCLEX-PN, apply for your LPN license through the Idaho Board of Nursing. You will need to submit your exam results, proof of training completion, and a licensing fee of $50. The processing time for your application can take up to 4 weeks. Once approved, your license will appear on the Idaho State Nursing Registry.
Tip
Double-check your application for any errors to prevent delays in processing.
Receive Your Certification and Verify on State Registry
Once your application is processed and approved, you will receive your official LPN certification from the Idaho Board of Nursing. Verify your license status online through the Idaho State Nursing Registry to ensure all information is correct. This verification is crucial before you begin applying for jobs as an LPN.
Tip
Regularly check the registry until your certification appears to ensure there are no errors in your license status.
Find Your First Job
With your LPN license verified, begin your job search. Utilize online job portals like Indeed, Glassdoor, and specialized healthcare job sites. Consider reaching out to local hospitals, clinics, and nursing facilities directly. Networking with classmates and instructors can also lead to job opportunities. Prepare for interviews by practicing responses to common nursing interview questions.
Tip
Tailor your resume to highlight skills and experiences relevant to the positions you are applying for.
Alternative Training Paths
Employer-Sponsored Training at Nursing Homes
Some nursing homes in Idaho offer employer-sponsored LPN training programs. These programs often cover tuition costs in exchange for a commitment to work at the facility for a specified period after certification. This path can be an excellent option for those who need financial assistance and have a clear plan for their immediate career.
Best for: Individuals needing financial aid and willing to commit to a single employer post-certification
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- •Attending a training program not on the Idaho 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
Time Limit: 5 hours
Format: Multiple choice
Passing Score: Pass/Fail based on adaptive testing
- • Safe and Effective Care Environment: 23-26%
- • Health Promotion and Maintenance: 6-12%
- • Psychosocial Integrity: 9-15%
- • Physiological Integrity: 35-45%
Skills Test
Skills Tested: None
Time Per Skill: None
The NCLEX-PN does not include a separate skills test; it is entirely computer-based.
What to Bring
- ✓ Authorization to Test (ATT) letter
- ✓ Acceptable form of identification (ID) with photo and signature (e.g., passport, driver's license)
Do Not Bring
- ✗ Personal items including bags, books, notes
- ✗ Electronic devices such as phones, smartwatches, calculators
Day-of Timeline
Arrive 30 minutes early. Check-in takes approximately 15 minutes. Written test is up to 5 hours.
Getting Your Results
Results are available through the online portal of Pearson VUE and are typically mailed by the state board within 2 to 6 weeks.
If You Don't Pass
If you fail, you can retake the exam after 45 days. Costs vary per retake. There is no limit on the number of retakes in Idaho.
Exam Strategies
- 1. Practice time management to ensure completion of all questions within the 5-hour limit.
- 2. Focus on understanding the rationale behind questions, especially prioritization and delegation.
- 3. Use elimination techniques to narrow down choices in multiple-choice questions.
- 4. Prepare for the adaptive nature of the test by studying broadly; the difficulty adjusts based on your answers.
Document Checklist
Every document you need from start to finish
1Before Training
High School Diploma or GED
From previous educational institutions or GED testing service · Varies · Varies
Official transcripts required; contact your school or GED office.
Criminal Background Check
Idaho State Police or approved third-party provider · Approximately $60 · 2-3 weeks
Fingerprints required; may be done at local police station.
Immunization Records
Personal medical provider or previous school · May be free if already documented; costs for new shots vary · Immediate to several weeks
Ensure records include MMR, Varicella, Hepatitis B, and Tdap.
Tuberculosis Test
Local health department or medical provider · Approximately $20-$50 · 48-72 hours for results
Some programs may require a two-step test.
CPR Certification
American Heart Association or Red Cross · Approximately $50-$100 · Varies; typically one full day
Must be Healthcare Provider level certification.
Application to LPN Program
Nursing school or community college · Varies; often around $50 application fee · Immediate to several weeks
Check specific program requirements and deadlines.
2During Training
Proof of Enrollment
Nursing school or community college · No additional cost · Immediate
Required for various externships or clinical placements.
Student ID
Nursing school or community college · Usually included in tuition fees · Available upon enrollment
Needed for access to school facilities and services.
Liability Insurance
Through nursing school or independent provider · Approximately $30-$50 per year · Immediate upon payment
Required for clinical rotations.
Health Insurance
Personal provider or school plan · Varies widely · Varies
Proof of health insurance may be required by the program.
3For the Exam
Application for Licensure by Examination
Idaho Board of Nursing · Approximately $90
Must be submitted near the completion of the LPN program.
NCLEX-PN Registration
Pearson Vue · Approximately $200
Register after receiving authorization to test from the state board.
Passport-Style Photo
Photo service provider (e.g., pharmacies, photo centers) · Approximately $10-$15
Required for exam admission; must meet specific size and style requirements.
4For Certification
Official LPN Program Transcript
Nursing school or community college · Varies; typically around $10 per copy
Must be sent directly from the institution to the Idaho Board of Nursing.
Proof of Passing NCLEX-PN
Automatically forwarded by Pearson Vue to the Idaho Board of Nursing · Included in exam fee
Ensure Pearson Vue has correct forwarding information.
License Fee
Idaho Board of Nursing · Approximately $75
Payable upon passing the NCLEX-PN and required for issuing of license.
After You're Certified: What's Next
Immediately after passing your LPN exam, verify your status on the Idaho Board of Nursing's online registry. Ensure you receive your physical license certificate by mail, as this is essential for employment verification.
Finding Your First Job
Where to Look
- • Idaho Department of Labor website, Indeed.com, Nurse.com, and local hospital career pages
Best Employers for New Grads
- • Hospitals, long-term care facilities, private clinics, and home health agencies. Hospitals often offer structured environments with rotational shifts, while long-term care and home health provide more consistent patient interaction.
Resume Tip: Include clinical rotations and specific skills such as medication administration, wound care, and patient education. Highlight soft skills like communication and teamwork.
Interview Tip: Describe a time you handled a stressful situation in clinicals.How do you prioritize tasks during busy shifts?Explain how you would handle a disagreement with a coworker.
Expected First-Year Salary
In Idaho, a new LPN can expect a salary range from $38,000 to $45,000 annually, depending on the employer and location.
Career Advancement Path
Registered Nurse (RN)
Complete an accredited program for an Associate's Degree in Nursing (ADN) or Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and pass the NCLEX-RN exam.
Challenges to Prepare For
- • Adjusting to shift work schedules, managing time effectively during shifts, dealing with the emotional and physical demands of nursing, and navigating workplace dynamics.
Licensed Practical Nurse Salary in Idaho
In Idaho, Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) earn a median annual salary of $55,610, which is lower than the national median. This reflects a localized salary structure influenced by regional factors such as demand and cost of living.
Entry Level
$45,670
0-1 years experience
Median Salary
$55,610
$26.74/hr · Bureau of Labor Statistics
Experienced
$77,870
5+ years experience
Compared to National Median
$59,730 national · -6.9% in Idaho
Salary by Metro Area
Slightly above state median
Slightly below state median
Salary by Employer Type
While LPN salaries in Idaho are below the national average, the state's lower cost of living may offset the lower wages, making it a reasonable option for many healthcare professionals.
Benefits & Compensation
Typical benefits for LPNs in Idaho include health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off. Some employers may also offer tuition assistance and flexible scheduling.
Salary Growth Outlook
Expected to rise in line with national trends for healthcare professionals, particularly in rural and underserved areas.
Salary Negotiation Tips
- •Research average salaries for LPNs in specific Idaho regions to inform negotiations.
- •Highlight unique skills or certifications that enhance your value to employers.
Job Market in Idaho
In Idaho, the demand for Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) is experiencing notable growth due to an aging population and increasing healthcare needs in rural areas. While the national growth rate for LPNs stands at 2.6% from 2024 to 2034, Idaho surpasses this, reflecting its expanding healthcare sector and increasing medical facilities.
Top Hiring Areas
Major hospitals and healthcare centers
Growing retiree population
Top Hiring Industries
Best time to apply: Early spring and late fall
Opportunities
- Specialization in geriatric care
- Leadership roles in community health settings
Challenges
- Recruitment in remote areas
- Competitive wages with neighboring states
Training Programs in Idaho
Idaho offers various LPN training programs through community colleges, vocational schools, and employer-sponsored initiatives. These programs prepare students to meet the state's nursing requirements and successfully pass the NCLEX-PN examination.
Program Types Comparison
| Type | Duration | Cost | Format | Pros / Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Community College | 1-2 years | $4,000 - $15,000 | In-person/Hybrid |
|
| Vocational/Trade School | 12-18 months | $5,000 - $20,000 | In-person/Hybrid |
|
| Employer-Sponsored | Varies | Free/Paid training | On-the-job |
|
Top Programs
Coeur d'Alene, Idaho
High NCLEX pass rates and affordable tuition
Twin Falls, Idaho
Strong clinical partnerships in Southern Idaho
Online & Hybrid Options
Several programs offer hybrid options combining online coursework with in-person clinical training.
How to Choose a Program
- •Verify the program's state approval and national accreditation status.
Financial Aid & Free Training
Get free Licensed Practical Nurse program info for Idaho
Renewal Requirements
Renewal Period
Every 2 years
Renewal Fee
$90
CE Hours
None
Work requirement: None specified
Out-of-State Reciprocity
Idaho recognizes out-of-state LPN licenses through the endorsement process, allowing LPNs licensed in other states to practice in Idaho without retaking the licensure examination.
Requirements for Reciprocity
- Active LPN license in another state
- Completion of a state-approved nursing program equivalent to Idaho standards
- Passing score on the NCLEX-PN or SBTPE
- Criminal background check
- Verification of original state licensure
State Agreements
All U.S. states as Idaho participates in the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC)
Additional Exams
No additional exams required if the applicant has passed the NCLEX-PN or SBTPE
Application Process
Submit an application for licensure by endorsement, provide verification of original licensure, submit to a criminal background check, and pay the applicable fees. Applications are typically processed online through the Idaho Board of Nursing's website.
Fees
Application fee of $110, plus additional costs for background checks
Processing Time: Typically 4 to 6 weeks, depending on the completeness of the application and background check results
Licensing Tips
Ensure all documents, including transcripts and background checks, are submitted promptly to avoid delays.
Review study materials thoroughly before attempting the NCLEX-PN exam.
Recommended Resources
NCLEX-PN Prep Plus by Kaplan
Offers detailed practice questions and test-taking strategies specific to the NCLEX-PN exam.
Saunders Comprehensive Review for the NCLEX-PN Examination
Provides a thorough review of all nursing content areas and includes over 4,500 practice questions.
Davis's Drug Guide for Nurses
Includes up-to-date drug information, ensuring safe medication administration for nursing students.
LPN Notes: Nurse's Clinical Pocket Guide
A quick-reference tool that provides basic nursing content and on-the-spot guidance for patient care.
Littmann Classic III Stethoscope
Used for assessing lung and heart sounds, vital for monitoring patient health during clinical training.
Nursing Scrubs
Required attire for clinical rotations, designed for comfort and functionality in healthcare settings.
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Sources
- Bureau of Labor StatisticsAccessed 2026-02-07
- Idaho Licensing BoardAccessed 2026-02-07
- CareerOneStopAccessed 2026-02-07