Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Missouri
Becoming a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Missouri involves meeting prerequisites, completing state-approved training, passing a competency exam, and obtaining certification. The process typically takes 8-12 weeks if pursued full-time, with costs ranging from $800 to $2,500 depending on the chosen training program and additional expenses.
In Missouri, a career as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) presents a stable and rewarding opportunity, especially given the state's median annual salary of $56,030. This figure aligns closely with the national average, reflecting a competitive pay structure for professionals in this field. The demand for LPNs is poised for growth, with a projected increase of 2.6% in the workforce by 2034, translating to new job openings and opportunities for advancement. As healthcare needs expand, particularly in rural and underserved areas, Missouri LPNs find themselves in a favorable position to secure employment in a variety of settings, from large hospitals to private clinics.
Missouri offers a distinct environment for LPNs due to its varied healthcare regulations and the presence of major healthcare providers. The state's regulations are designed to ensure that LPNs meet specific standards that safeguard patient care quality. Missouri's healthcare system is bolstered by several large employers, including major hospital systems and long-term care facilities that consistently hire new nursing professionals. Geographical factors also play a role; for example, LPNs in urban areas like St. Louis or Kansas City might experience different job market dynamics compared to those in rural regions, which can influence job availability and salary.
This guide provides detailed information on becoming a Licensed Practical Nurse in Missouri, outlining the necessary steps to achieve licensure and certification. Readers will learn about the educational requirements, the licensing process managed by the Missouri Board of Nursing, and the subsequent steps to maintain and advance one's nursing credentials. Additionally, the guide will cover salary expectations across various regions and employment sectors within the state. Insights into the job market will equip prospective LPNs with the knowledge to make informed decisions about their career paths in Missouri's healthcare sector.
Licensing Authority
Missouri State Board of Nursing
In Missouri, aspiring Licensed Practical Nurses must complete a state-approved training program, pass the NCLEX-PN exam, and meet background check requirements. No continuing education is required for license renewal.
Official Resources
Missouri Requirements
Training Requirements
- Education
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Total Training Hours
- Not specified hours
- Classroom Hours
- Not specified hours
- Clinical Hours
- Not specified hours
- Minimum Age
- 18 years old
Additional Requirements
- Background check (State and federal) with fingerprinting
- Completion of an accredited practical nursing program
Certification Exam
- Exam
- National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-PN)
- Components
- Written, Skills demonstration
- Fee
- Varies
How to Become a Licensed Practical Nurse in Missouri
tuition $500-$2,000, exam fee $200, background check $50, application fee $50, textbooks/supplies $100, scrubs $50
Fastest Path
4-6 weeks
Typical Timeline
8-12 weeks
Estimated Cost
$800–$2,500
Verify You Meet Missouri's Prerequisites
Before enrolling in an LPN program, confirm you meet Missouri's prerequisites: you must be at least 18 years old, have a high school diploma or GED, and be in good health. Visit the Missouri Board of Nursing website to download the checklist of prerequisites and ensure you meet all requirements. Processing of your initial inquiry can take 1-2 days.
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
Missouri requires an FBI fingerprint background check and health screenings including a TB test. Visit the Missouri Automated Criminal History Site (MACHS) to schedule your fingerprinting. Health screenings can be done at your local clinic. Results from the background check can take up to 2 weeks. A history of certain crimes may disqualify you.
Tip
Schedule your fingerprinting appointment early to avoid delays.
Research and Choose an Approved Training Program
Select a state-approved LPN training program in Missouri. Visit the Missouri Board of Nursing's website to access a list of approved programs. Attending a non-approved program will prevent you from sitting for the state exam. Review program costs, locations, and schedules to find the best fit for your needs.
Tip
Compare programs based on graduation rates and post-graduation employment rates.
Enroll in and Complete Training
Enroll in your chosen LPN program. Complete the required classroom and clinical hours as mandated by the Missouri Board of Nursing. Ensure you attend all sessions and meet all program requirements to qualify for the state exam. Training typically includes practical nursing skills, anatomy, pharmacology, and patient care.
Tip
Keep a record of all your clinical hours in case of discrepancies with your training program.
Prepare for the Competency Exam
Prepare for the Missouri Nursing Assistant Competency Exam by studying the required materials and taking practice tests. The exam includes both written and practical components. Resources for study guides and practice tests are available on the Pearson VUE website. Allocate at least 2 weeks for thorough preparation.
Tip
Focus on areas where practice tests indicate weakness.
Register for and Schedule the Exam
Register for the Missouri Nursing Assistant Competency Exam through Pearson VUE. Select a test date and location that are convenient for you. The cost of the exam is $200. Registration can be completed online, and you should schedule at least 3 weeks in advance to secure your preferred date.
Tip
Choose a test date that gives you ample time for preparation.
Take and Pass the Exam
Take the Missouri Nursing Assistant Competency Exam on your scheduled date. The exam consists of written questions and a skills demonstration. Arrive early with two forms of ID and all necessary materials. If you fail, you can reschedule after 30 days. Passing the exam is required to proceed with certification.
Tip
Arrive at least 30 minutes early to allow for check-in procedures.
Apply for State Certification/Registry
After passing the exam, apply for your LPN certification with the Missouri Board of Nursing. Complete the application form available on their website, and submit it along with the required documentation and application fee of $50. Processing typically takes 2-4 weeks. Once approved, your name will appear in the state registry.
Tip
Ensure all sections of the application are filled out completely to avoid delays.
Receive Your Certification and Verify on State Registry
Once your application is processed, you will receive your LPN certification by mail. Verify your certification status on the Missouri Board of Nursing's online registry. This verification is crucial for employers to confirm your credentials. Keep your certification documents safe as they are required for employment.
Tip
Regularly check the mail and the online registry for updates on your certification status.
Find Your First Job
Start your job search by visiting online job boards such as Indeed or LinkedIn, and filter for LPN positions in Missouri. Consider also visiting local hospitals and clinics to inquire about openings. Networking with classmates and instructors can also lead to job opportunities. Prepare your resume and references in advance.
Tip
Tailor your resume to highlight the most relevant skills and experiences for the positions you are applying for.
Alternative Training Paths
Employer-Sponsored Training at Nursing Homes
Some nursing homes in Missouri offer employer-sponsored LPN training programs. These programs sometimes cover the cost of training in exchange for a commitment to work at the facility for a specified period post-graduation. This path can reduce educational expenses and secure immediate employment.
Best for: Individuals looking to minimize educational expenses and secure immediate employment
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- •Attending a training program not on the Missouri 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: 5 hours
Format: Multiple choice and alternate format questions
Passing Score: Pass/Fail based on adaptive testing algorithm
- • 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: Not applicable
Time Per Skill: Not applicable
The NCLEX-PN does not include a separate skills test; it integrates practical skills into the written exam through scenario-based questions.
What to Bring
- ✓ Authorization to Test (ATT) email
- ✓ One form of acceptable identification (e.g., passport, driver's license)
- ✓ Layered clothing for adjustable comfort
Do Not Bring
- ✗ Personal items (bags, hats, scarves)
- ✗ Electronic devices (phones, smartwatches, calculators)
- ✗ Food and drink (exceptions for medical needs must be pre-approved)
Day-of Timeline
Arrive 30 minutes early. Check-in takes 15 minutes. Written test is up to 5 hours. No separate skills test.
Getting Your Results
Results are available through the Missouri Board of Nursing and Pearson VUE's online portal within 2-6 weeks.
If You Don't Pass
You can retake the exam after 45 days. Cost varies by retake. Missouri allows unlimited retakes within two years from the date of the first exam.
Exam Strategies
- 1. Read each question carefully, focusing on keywords and patient safety implications.
- 2. Use the process of elimination for multiple-choice questions, removing clearly wrong answers first.
- 3. Manage your time by not spending too long on any one question, aiming to complete each question in approximately 1 minute.
- 4. Prepare for computer-adaptive testing by practicing with similar formats; each answer will determine the next question's difficulty.
Document Checklist
Every document you need from start to finish
1Before Training
High School Diploma or GED Certificate
From your high school or GED program provider · Varies · 1-4 weeks
Required for admission into LPN programs
Proof of Immunizations
From your healthcare provider · Varies · 1-2 weeks
Includes MMR, Varicella, Hepatitis B, and others as required by the training program
Tuberculosis Test Results
From your healthcare provider · Varies · 1-3 days
Often required to be recent, typically within the last year
CPR Certification
American Heart Association or Red Cross · Around $50-$100 · Varies, often 1 day for the course
Ensure certification is for Healthcare Providers
Background Check
Missouri State Highway Patrol or approved vendor · Around $50 · 1-2 weeks
Required for licensure; specific type of check may be dictated by the training program
2During Training
Official Transcripts
From your LPN training program · Varies, often around $10 per copy · 1-2 weeks
Needed for licensure application to verify education
Clinical Hour Documentation
From your LPN training program · No cost · At the end of the training program
Proof of completed clinical hours as required by the Missouri State Board of Nursing
3For the Exam
Application for Licensure by Examination
Missouri State Board of Nursing website · Application fee around $45
Must be submitted to schedule NCLEX-PN exam
ATT (Authorization to Test)
Received via email after application approval · No additional cost
Required to schedule the exam date for NCLEX-PN
NCLEX-PN Examination Fee
Payable to Pearson Vue · Around $200
Fee must be paid to complete the registration for the exam
4For Certification
Passing NCLEX-PN Score
Automatically forwarded by Pearson Vue to the Missouri State Board of Nursing · No additional cost
Essential for obtaining licensure
License Issuance Fee
Payable to the Missouri State Board of Nursing · Around $50
Required fee for issuing the practical nursing license
After You're Certified: What's Next
Verify your status on the Missouri Board of Nursing's online registry. Obtain your LPN certificate from the Board. Ensure your contact information is up to date with the state registry.
Finding Your First Job
Where to Look
- • Missouri Health Care Association job board, Indeed.com, LinkedIn, and hospital websites like BJC HealthCare and Mercy
Best Employers for New Grads
- • Hospitals, long-term care facilities, and home health agencies. Hospitals often offer structured environments and regular shifts, while home health roles provide more flexible schedules but may require self-management. Long-term care facilities are in constant demand for LPNs, offering job security but potentially challenging work conditions due to high patient loads.
Resume Tip: Highlight clinical skills, any internships or practicums, basic patient care, and soft skills like communication and teamwork. Include certifications such as CPR.
Interview Tip: Describe a time you handled a stressful situation.How do you prioritize tasks?What motivates you in nursing?Provide an example of how you've dealt with a difficult patient.
Expected First-Year Salary
The average salary for a new LPN in Missouri ranges from $37,000 to $45,000 annually, depending on location and type of employer.
Career Advancement Path
Registered Nurse (RN)
Completion of an accredited RN program and passing the NCLEX-RN exam.
Challenges to Prepare For
- • Adjusting to shift work and long hours, managing emotional and physical stress, dealing with difficult patients and family members. Effective time management and self-care strategies are key.
Licensed Practical Nurse Salary in Missouri
In Missouri, Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) earn a median annual salary of $56,030, which is lower than the national median. The hourly wage stands at $26.94, reflecting the state's healthcare sector's compensation trends.
Entry Level
$45,670
0-1 years experience
Median Salary
$56,030
$26.94/hr · Bureau of Labor Statistics
Experienced
$77,870
5+ years experience
Compared to National Median
$59,730 national · -6.2% in Missouri
Salary by Metro Area
Slightly higher than state median
Comparable to state median
Below state median
Salary by Employer Type
Missouri's cost of living is generally lower than the national average, which may compensate for the slightly lower wages for LPNs.
Benefits & Compensation
Typical benefits include health insurance, retirement plans, and paid leave. Some employers may offer tuition assistance.
Salary Growth Outlook
Salary growth for LPNs in Missouri is expected to align with national healthcare demands and inflation.
Salary Negotiation Tips
- •Research average salaries for LPNs in your specific Missouri region to negotiate effectively.
- •Highlight any specialized skills or certifications that enhance your value to the employer.
Job Market in Missouri
In Missouri, the job market for Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) is expected to align closely with the national growth rate of 2.6% from 2024 to 2034. Factors such as an aging population and increased healthcare needs, especially in rural and underserved areas, drive demand for LPNs. The state's healthcare system is expanding to meet these needs, particularly in long-term care and home health settings.
Top Hiring Areas
Large healthcare systems and aging population
Growing healthcare sector and diverse patient demographics
Increase in long-term care facilities
Top Hiring Industries
Best time to apply: Early spring and late fall, aligning with healthcare hiring cycles
Opportunities
- Advancements in telehealth
- Training and certification programs
Challenges
- Competition from larger markets
- Retention of LPNs in rural areas
Training Programs in Missouri
Missouri offers diverse LPN training programs through community colleges, vocational schools, and employer-sponsored options, catering to various educational needs and career aspirations.
Program Types Comparison
| Type | Duration | Cost | Format | Pros / Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Community College | 12 to 18 months | $5,000 to $15,000 | In-person/Hybrid |
|
| Vocational/Trade School | 12 months | $10,000 to $20,000 | In-person/Hybrid |
|
| Employer-Sponsored | Varies, typically 12 months | Free/Paid training | On-the-job |
|
Top Programs
St. Louis, Missouri
High NCLEX-PN pass rates and strong industry connections
Platte City, Missouri
Intensive, hands-on training with state-of-the-art facilities
Online & Hybrid Options
Some community colleges and private schools offer hybrid options, combining online theory classes with in-person clinical experiences.
How to Choose a Program
- •Verify the program's state approval and NCLEX-PN pass rates.
Financial Aid & Free Training
Get free Licensed Practical Nurse program info for Missouri
Renewal Requirements
Renewal Period
Every 2 years
Renewal Fee
Varies
CE Hours
None
Work requirement: None specified
Out-of-State Reciprocity
Missouri handles out-of-state Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) credentials through an endorsement process. This allows LPNs licensed in other states to obtain a Missouri license without retaking the licensure exam, provided they meet specific requirements.
Requirements for Reciprocity
- Active LPN license in another state with similar or stricter requirements
- Completion of a state-approved nursing program or equivalent
- Passing score on the NCLEX-PN or SBTPE
- Background check with fingerprinting
- Verification of original state licensure
State Agreements
All U.S. states as Missouri recognizes LPN licenses from states with equivalent licensure requirements.
Additional Exams
No additional exams are required if the applicant has passed the NCLEX-PN or SBTPE.
Application Process
Submit an application for licensure by endorsement, provide proof of current active license, complete a background check, submit official transcripts from nursing school, and pay the required fees. Verification of licensure from the original state is also needed.
Fees
Application fee of $105, background check fee of $44.80.
Processing Time: Typically 4 to 6 weeks from the receipt of all required documents.
Licensing Tips
Ensure all sections of the application are completed accurately to avoid delays.
Prepare thoroughly for the NCLEX-PN using available study materials and practice exams.
Recommended Resources
NCLEX-PN Prep Plus by Kaplan
Offers practice questions and test-taking strategies, simulating the actual LPN exam format.
Saunders Comprehensive Review for the NCLEX-PN Examination
Provides a thorough review of all nursing content areas and includes over 4,500 practice questions.
Mosby's Comprehensive Review of Practical Nursing for the NCLEX-PN Exam
Covers key nursing concepts and includes more than 1,000 practice questions for exam preparation.
LPN Notes: Nurse's Clinical Pocket Guide
A quick-reference guide for LPNs, offering at-a-glance access to key information and procedures.
Littmann Classic III Stethoscope
Used for patient assessments, this stethoscope offers high acoustic sensitivity for superior performance.
Nursing Scrubs
Required attire for clinical training, providing comfort and hygiene in a healthcare setting.
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Sources
- Bureau of Labor StatisticsAccessed 2026-02-07
- Missouri Licensing BoardAccessed 2026-02-07
- CareerOneStopAccessed 2026-02-07