Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in New Hampshire
This guide outlines the detailed steps to become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in New Hampshire. The process involves meeting prerequisites, completing state-approved training, passing the required exam, and obtaining licensure. The path duration typically ranges from 8-12 weeks, with total costs varying between $800 and $2,500, depending on the chosen training program and additional expenses.
In New Hampshire, the role of a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) presents a promising career path characterized by a substantial median annual salary of $70,620 and a stable job growth projection of 2.6% by 2034. With 651,400 LPNs currently employed nationally, this field not only offers a stable income but also demonstrates resilience and growing demand in the healthcare sector. The financial and job security aspects make pursuing a career as an LPN in New Hampshire an attractive option for those interested in nursing and patient care.
New Hampshire's healthcare system is marked by distinct state-specific regulations and a diverse array of healthcare facilities ranging from large hospitals to community clinics, which influence the demand for LPNs. The state's regulatory environment ensures that LPNs meet high standards of professional competence, which is critical in maintaining the quality of healthcare services. Major healthcare employers in the region contribute to a dynamic job market, with varying opportunities depending on geographical and demographical factors. This unique blend of regulatory rigor and employer diversity makes New Hampshire an interesting state for LPNs to develop their careers.
This guide provides detailed insights into the steps required to become a licensed LPN in New Hampshire, covering the essential prerequisites, the licensing process sourced from reliable entities, and realistic expectations regarding salary and job market trends. Readers will gain a clear understanding of the educational paths available, including necessary examinations and credentials, and what to anticipate in terms of career longevity and advancement opportunities in the state's healthcare system. By setting clear, factual expectations, this guide aims to equip aspiring nurses with the knowledge needed to pursue and succeed in an LPN career in New Hampshire.
Licensing Authority
Office of Professional Licensure and Certification
In New Hampshire, Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) must meet specific educational, examination, and character requirements to obtain licensure. The state mandates a background check, continuing education, and periodic license renewal.
Official Resources
New Hampshire 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
- Evidence of good professional character
- Physical and mental health certification
- Proficiency in English
Certification Exam
- Exam
- NCLEX-PN
- Components
- Written
- Fee
- $200
How to Become a Licensed Practical Nurse in New Hampshire
tuition $500-$2,000, exam fee $200, background check $50, application fee $50, textbooks/supplies $100, scrubs $50
Fastest Path
8 weeks
Typical Timeline
12 weeks
Estimated Cost
$800–$2,500
Verify You Meet New Hampshire's Prerequisites
Ensure you meet the prerequisites for becoming an LPN in New Hampshire. You must be at least 18 years old, have a high school diploma or GED, and be in good physical and mental health. Begin by obtaining your high school transcript or GED certificate. Visit the New Hampshire Board of Nursing website to download the checklist for LPN prerequisites to ensure you meet all requirements.
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 New Hampshire state police and FBI fingerprint background check. Schedule an appointment for fingerprinting through Identogo (https://www.identogo.com/). You will also need to complete a TB test and provide proof of immunizations. Check with local health clinics or your doctor for these health screenings. Expect the background check results to take up to 4 weeks.
Tip
Schedule your health screenings on the same day to minimize delays.
Research and Choose an Approved Training Program
Select a state-approved LPN training program in New Hampshire. Visit the New Hampshire Board of Nursing's website to view a list of approved programs. Choosing a non-approved program will prevent you from sitting for the licensing exam, thus wasting time and money. Consider program length, cost, and location in your decision.
Tip
Contact multiple programs to compare cost, schedule, and pass rates of graduates on the licensing exam.
Enroll in and Complete Training
After selecting an approved program, enroll and complete the required training. State-approved programs in New Hampshire must meet specific criteria, but the exact classroom and clinical hours are not specified in this guide. Ensure the program covers all necessary competencies. Completion typically takes 8 to 20 weeks, depending on the program's intensity.
Tip
Keep a detailed log of your clinical hours in case of discrepancies with your program's records.
Prepare for the Competency Exam
Prepare for the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN). Utilize study guides and practice exams available through the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) website. Focus on areas such as safe and effective care environment, health promotion and maintenance, and psychosocial integrity.
Tip
Take multiple timed practice tests to improve your test-taking speed and accuracy.
Register for and Schedule the Exam
Register for the NCLEX-PN through the Pearson VUE website (https://www.pearsonvue.com/nclex/). After registration, you will receive an Authorization to Test (ATT) email, allowing you to schedule your exam. The cost of the exam is included in the total cost estimate. Choose a test date that gives you ample time for preparation.
Tip
Choose a testing center and time that minimizes travel and stress on the test day.
Take and Pass the Exam
On the day of your exam, arrive at the Pearson VUE testing center with two forms of ID. The NCLEX-PN consists of up to 145 questions with a 5-hour time limit. If you fail, you can reapply through Pearson VUE and pay the exam fee again. Results are typically available within 2-4 weeks.
Tip
Arrive at least 30 minutes early to the testing center to allow time for check-in procedures.
Apply for State Certification/Registry
After passing the NCLEX-PN, apply for your LPN license through the New Hampshire Board of Nursing. Complete the application form available on their website and submit it along with the required fee and proof of passing the exam. Processing times can vary, but expect to receive your license within 4-6 weeks.
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 and approved, you will receive your LPN license. Verify your license status on the New Hampshire Board of Nursing's online registry. This confirmation is crucial for employers verifying your credentials. Typically, your license will appear in the registry within a few days of issuance.
Tip
Regularly check the registry to confirm your license status and ensure there are no errors.
Find Your First Job
Start your job search by visiting job boards like Indeed or LinkedIn, and check the websites of local hospitals and clinics. Networking with classmates and instructors can also lead to job opportunities. Prepare a resume that highlights your LPN training, certification, and any relevant experience. Be ready to discuss your training and skills in interviews.
Tip
Attend job fairs and use your school's career services for additional support in your job search.
Alternative Training Paths
Employer-Sponsored Training at Nursing Homes
Some nursing homes in New Hampshire offer employer-sponsored LPN training programs. These are often paid positions that require a work commitment after training. This path can be a cost-effective way to receive training and secure employment immediately after certification.
Best for: Individuals looking for a direct transition from training to employment
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- •Attending a training program not on the New Hampshire 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 administered by Pearson VUE
Written Test
Questions: 85 to 205
Time Limit: 5 hours
Format: Multiple choice, adaptive
Passing Score: Varies, adaptive scoring
- • Safe and Effective Care Environment: 21-33%
- • Health Promotion and Maintenance: 12-18%
- • Psychosocial Integrity: 9-15%
- • Physiological Integrity: 43-67%
Skills Test
Skills Tested: None
Time Per Skill: None
The NCLEX-PN does not include a practical skills test; all assessments are included in the adaptive written exam.
What to Bring
- ✓ Authorization to Test (ATT) letter
- ✓ Valid photo ID (driver's license, passport)
- ✓ Second form of ID with signature (credit card, social security card)
Do Not Bring
- ✗ Personal items (bags, hats)
- ✗ Electronic devices (phones, smartwatches)
- ✗ Food or drink
- ✗ Study materials
Day-of Timeline
Arrive 30 minutes early. Check-in takes 15 minutes. Written test is up to 5 hours. There are no breaks scheduled, but you may take unscheduled breaks.
Getting Your Results
Results are typically available within 6 weeks via the online portal or mail.
If You Don't Pass
You can retake the exam after 45 days. The cost of a retake is the same as the initial exam fee. There is no limit on the number of retakes in New Hampshire.
Exam Strategies
- 1. Read each question carefully, especially the last sentence, to understand exactly what is being asked.
- 2. Use the process of elimination on multiple-choice questions to narrow down the choices.
- 3. Manage your time effectively, aiming not to spend more than 1 minute per question initially.
- 4. Focus on patient safety and prioritization when answering questions related to care.
Document Checklist
Every document you need from start to finish
1Before Training
High School Diploma or GED Certificate
From your high school or the GED testing service · Free to obtain a copy, but fees may apply for official transcripts · 1-2 weeks
Required to enroll in an LPN program
Criminal Background Check
New Hampshire Department of Safety, Division of State Police · Approximately $25 · 2-3 weeks
Mandatory for admission to training programs
Immunization Records
Your healthcare provider or previous school · Varies; some fees for copies may apply · 1-2 weeks
Include MMR, Varicella, Hepatitis B, and TB test
CPR Certification
American Heart Association or Red Cross · Approximately $50-$100 · Varies by course availability
Must be Healthcare Provider level
Photo ID
State DMV or other government agency · Varies by state · Immediately to 2 weeks
Needed for various application processes
2During Training
Transcripts
From your LPN training program · May be free or incur a small fee · 1-2 weeks
Required for licensure application
Proof of Program Completion
Your LPN training program · At the completion of the program
Official document stating you have completed all course requirements
3For the Exam
NCLEX-PN Registration
National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) website · Registration fee approximately $200
Must register to schedule your licensing exam
Authorization to Test (ATT)
Received via email after registering for NCLEX-PN · Included in the registration fee
Valid for a limited time; schedule your exam promptly
4For Certification
Application for Licensure by Examination
New Hampshire Board of Nursing website · Application fee approximately $120
Submit after passing the NCLEX-PN
Passport-sized Photo
Photo studios or certain pharmacies · Approximately $10-$15
Required for the licensure application
Proof of Continuing Education (if applicable)
From relevant educational institutions or providers · Varies by course or provider
Needed only if you're submitting credentials for licensure beyond initial education
After You're Certified: What's Next
Verify your status on the New Hampshire Board of Nursing's online registry. Ensure you receive your LPN certificate by mail. If not, contact the Board to inquire about the status.
Finding Your First Job
Where to Look
- • New Hampshire Health Careers website
- • Indeed.com with filters set to 'LPN' and 'New Hampshire'
- • LinkedIn job search for LPNs in New Hampshire
- • Hospital career pages like Dartmouth-Hitchcock and Catholic Medical Center
Best Employers for New Grads
- • Hospitals: Offer structured environments and typically higher pay but can be demanding with shift work.
- • Long-term care facilities: High demand for LPNs, with more consistent patient interactions and opportunities for overtime.
- • Home health services: Flexible schedules, but require self-management and travel within the community.
- • Physician offices: Regular hours, typically Monday to Friday, but may offer lower pay compared to other settings.
Resume Tip: Highlight clinical skills gained during training, any specializations (e.g., geriatrics), and soft skills like communication and empathy. Include clinical rotations as practical experience.
Interview Tip: Prepare to discuss your clinical experiences, how you handle stressful situations, and why you chose nursing. Expect to answer scenario-based questions to demonstrate your decision-making and patient care skills.
Expected First-Year Salary
In New Hampshire, entry-level LPNs can expect a salary ranging from $45,000 to $55,000 annually, depending on the employer and location.
Career Advancement Path
Registered Nurse (RN)
Completion of an accredited RN program and passing the NCLEX-RN exam
Challenges to Prepare For
- • Work-life balance can be difficult with shift work, especially in hospitals.
- • Emotional stress from patient care responsibilities and outcomes.
- • Navigating workplace dynamics and hierarchies as a new nurse.
Licensed Practical Nurse Salary in New Hampshire
In New Hampshire, Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) earn a median salary significantly higher than the national average. The state median annual salary is $70,620, which reflects the competitive healthcare market in this region.
Entry Level
$50,000
0-1 years experience
Median Salary
$70,620
$33.95/hr · Bureau of Labor Statistics
Experienced
$80,000
5+ years experience
Compared to National Median
$59,730 national · ++18.2% in New Hampshire
Salary by Metro Area
Highest concentration of LPNs
Competitive due to proximity to major hospitals
Salary by Employer Type
Despite a higher median salary, New Hampshire's cost of living is above average, which can offset the higher wages.
Benefits & Compensation
Common benefits include health insurance, retirement plans, paid time off, and continuing education opportunities.
Salary Growth Outlook
Salary growth for LPNs in New Hampshire is expected to align with national healthcare demands, particularly in specialized and elderly care.
Salary Negotiation Tips
- •Highlight relevant certifications and experience.
- •Discuss the demand for healthcare professionals in the area.
Job Market in New Hampshire
In New Hampshire, 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. The demand for LPNs in the state is influenced by an aging population requiring increased healthcare services and the expansion of healthcare facilities in urban and suburban areas. Additionally, New Hampshire's proximity to major healthcare hubs in the Northeast increases regional demand for skilled nursing professionals.
Top Hiring Areas
Largest city with several healthcare institutions
Growing healthcare needs with expanding suburban population
State capital with steady healthcare employment opportunities
Top Hiring Industries
Best time to apply: Early spring and late fall, aligning with healthcare hiring cycles
Opportunities
- Expansion in telehealth services
- Career advancement through additional certifications
Challenges
- Competition with neighboring states for healthcare professionals
- Limited educational programs for specialized nursing skills
Training Programs in New Hampshire
New Hampshire offers diverse LPN training programs through community colleges, vocational schools, and employer-sponsored initiatives. These prepare students for the NCLEX-PN exam required for licensure.
Program Types Comparison
| Type | Duration | Cost | Format | Pros / Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Community College | 1 year | $10,000 to $15,000 | Hybrid |
|
| Vocational/Trade School | 10 to 12 months | $5,000 to $10,000 | In-person |
|
| Employer-Sponsored | Varies | Free | On-the-job |
|
Top Programs
Merrimack, New Hampshire
High NCLEX pass rates and focused healthcare training
Claremont, New Hampshire
Offers extensive support services and clinical experience opportunities
Online & Hybrid Options
Some programs offer hybrid formats, combining online theory with in-person clinical practice.
How to Choose a Program
- •Verify the program's state approval and accreditation status.
- •Consider the program's NCLEX-PN pass rates.
- •Evaluate the cost relative to the length and type of training offered.
Financial Aid & Free Training
Get free Licensed Practical Nurse program info for New Hampshire
Renewal Requirements
Renewal Period
Every 2 years
Renewal Fee
$80
CE Hours
30 hours
Work requirement: 400 hours active-in-practice within four years prior to application
CE Topics: Nursing knowledge, judgement, and skills
Out-of-State Reciprocity
New Hampshire offers a streamlined process for endorsing Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) licenses from other states, allowing for easier integration of out-of-state nurses into its workforce.
Requirements for Reciprocity
- Active LPN license in another state with similar or higher standards
- Completion of an approved nursing education program equivalent to that required in New Hampshire
- Passing score on the NCLEX-PN or SBTPE
- Criminal background check
- Proof of 400 hours of active practice in the past 4 years, or completion of an approved refresher course
State Agreements
All states as New Hampshire recognizes LPN licenses from any U.S. state or territory as long as they meet New Hampshire's licensure requirements.
Additional Exams
No additional exams are required if the applicant has passed the NCLEX-PN or SBTPE unless the license has lapsed and a refresher course is needed.
Application Process
Submit an application for licensure by endorsement online, provide verification of original state license, submit proof of work experience or refresher course completion, undergo a criminal background check, and pay the required fees.
Fees
Application fee of $120, criminal background check fee of $49.75.
Processing Time: Typically 4 to 6 weeks, depending on the completeness of the application and background check results.
Licensing Tips
Ensure all documents, especially proof of education and health certifications, are ready before applying.
Verify the specific requirements for the NCLEX-PN exam in terms of preparation and scheduling.
Recommended Resources
NCLEX-PN Practice Questions Exam Cram
Contains over 1000 practice questions tailored to help prepare for the NCLEX-PN exams, including detailed explanations and tips.
Saunders Comprehensive Review for the NCLEX-PN Examination
Offers a thorough review with practice questions and test-taking strategies specific to the LPN licensure requirements.
Lippincott Review for NCLEX-PN
Provides comprehensive content review and NCLEX-style practice questions, focusing on critical thinking and application skills needed for the exam.
Mosby's Comprehensive Review of Practical Nursing for the NCLEX-PN Exam
Covers all nursing content areas and includes more than 500 practice questions to simulate the actual exam.
3M Littmann Classic III Monitoring Stethoscope
Essential for clinical training, allowing for effective patient assessments and vital signs monitoring.
Nursing Scrubs
Required for practical training sessions to maintain hygiene and professional standards in clinical environments.
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Sources
- Bureau of Labor StatisticsAccessed 2026-02-07
- New Hampshire Licensing BoardAccessed 2026-02-07
- CareerOneStopAccessed 2026-02-07