Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Virginia
This guide outlines the comprehensive steps to become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Virginia. The process typically ranges from 8-12 weeks and may cost between $800 and $2,500. Key steps include meeting prerequisites, completing state-approved training, passing the competency exam, and obtaining state certification.
In Virginia, the role of a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) presents promising career opportunities, highlighted by a median annual salary of $58,200 and a projected national growth rate of 2.6% by 2034. With approximately 651,400 workers currently in this field across the United States, Virginia offers a stable and growing environment for those interested in nursing. This career path not only ensures financial stability but also meets a critical need in healthcare, providing essential services in a variety of settings including hospitals, long-term care facilities, and private practices.
Virginia's unique healthcare regulations and the structure of its medical system shape the career landscape for LPNs. The state's licensing requirements, governed by specific standards and continuing education criteria, ensure that LPNs meet high professional standards. Virginia's diverse healthcare environment, from rural clinics to large urban hospitals, influences demand and opportunities for LPNs. Major healthcare employers in the state, such as Virginia Commonwealth University Health System and Inova Health System, offer varied and substantial employment opportunities, catering to different specializations within practical nursing.
This guide will equip readers with detailed information on how to become a licensed LPN in Virginia, outlining the necessary steps from educational requirements to obtaining licensure. It will provide insights into salary expectations, realistic job market prospects, and the benefits as well as challenges of working as an LPN in Virginia. By presenting factual data on licensing sources and procedural guidelines, the guide aims to offer a clear pathway for aspiring nurses, ensuring they are well-prepared for their career in practical nursing within the state.
Licensing Authority
Virginia Board of Nursing
In Virginia, Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) must meet specific educational and examination requirements set by the Virginia Board of Nursing. The process includes completing a state-approved training program, passing a licensure exam, and fulfilling continuing education requirements for license renewal.
Official Resources
Virginia Requirements
Training Requirements
- Education
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Total Training Hours
- Varies by program hours
- Classroom Hours
- Varies by program hours
- Clinical Hours
- Varies by program hours
- Minimum Age
- 18 years old
Additional Requirements
- Background check (State and federal) with fingerprinting
- Proof of CPR certification
Certification Exam
- Exam
- NCLEX-PN
- Components
- Written, Skills demonstration
- Fee
- Varies by testing location
How to Become a Licensed Practical Nurse in Virginia
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 Virginia's Prerequisites
Begin by confirming you meet the prerequisites for LPN training in Virginia. Requirements include being at least 18 years old, having a high school diploma or GED, and being in good health. Visit the Virginia Board of Nursing website to download the detailed list of prerequisites and ensure you meet all health, education, and legal standards before proceeding.
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 and complete a background check through the Virginia State Police and FBI. This involves fingerprinting, which can be done at local police stations or authorized LiveScan locations. You will also need a TB test and possibly a drug screening. Check the Virginia Board of Nursing's website for specific health screening requirements. Background checks may take up to 4 weeks to process.
Tip
Schedule your fingerprinting appointment early to avoid delays.
Research and Choose an Approved Training Program
Identify a state-approved LPN training program in Virginia. These programs meet specific educational standards required for licensure. Attending a non-approved program may result in ineligibility to sit for the state exam. Use the Virginia Board of Nursing's online directory to find approved programs. Consider factors such as cost, location, and program length when choosing.
Tip
Compare program costs and durations by contacting multiple schools.
Enroll in and Complete Training
Once you have selected an approved program, enroll and complete the necessary coursework and clinical hours as outlined by the program. The total hours, classroom hours, and clinical hours vary by program. Ensure you attend all sessions and meet all program requirements to qualify for the state exam.
Tip
Keep a log of your clinical hours in case of discrepancies.
Prepare for the Competency Exam
Begin preparing for the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN). This exam tests your knowledge and skills necessary for the safe and effective practice of nursing at the entry level. Study materials and practice exams are available through the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) website. The exam consists of a variable number of questions, typically between 85 and 205, and you have up to 5 hours to complete it.
Tip
Focus on areas of weakness highlighted in practice exams.
Register for and Schedule the Exam
Register for the NCLEX-PN through Pearson VUE, the testing vendor. You will need to pay the exam fee and schedule your test date. Registration can be completed online at the Pearson VUE website. Choose a test center and time that are convenient for you. Ensure you have all required identification and authorization from the Virginia Board of Nursing to sit for the exam.
Tip
Choose an earlier test date to allow time for retakes if necessary.
Take and Pass the Exam
On the day of the exam, arrive at the test center early with two forms of ID. The NCLEX-PN is a computer-adaptive test that adjusts the difficulty based on your answers. Results are typically available within a few weeks. If you fail, you can register to retake the exam after a 45-day waiting period.
Tip
Rest well the night before and arrive early to avoid any stress.
Apply for State Certification/Registry
After passing the NCLEX-PN, apply for your LPN license through the Virginia Board of Nursing. This involves submitting proof of your passing score and completing an application form available on their website. The processing time can take up to 6 weeks. Once approved, your license will be issued and your name will be added to the state registry of licensed practical nurses.
Tip
Double-check your application for errors to avoid processing delays.
Receive Your Certification and Verify on State Registry
Once your application is processed and approved, you will receive your LPN certification through the mail. Verify your status online at the Virginia Board of Nursing's license verification page. It is crucial to ensure your information is correctly listed to avoid issues with potential employers.
Tip
Regularly check the mail and the online registry for updates.
Find Your First Job
Start your job search by visiting online job boards such as Indeed, Glassdoor, and LinkedIn. Additionally, attend local healthcare job fairs and network with professionals in the field. Prepare your resume and tailor it to each job application. Highlight your LPN certification, training, and any relevant skills or experiences.
Tip
Tailor your resume for each application to highlight relevant experience.
Alternative Training Paths
Employer-Sponsored Training at Nursing Homes
Some nursing homes in Virginia offer employer-sponsored training programs for aspiring LPNs. These programs sometimes cover tuition costs in exchange for a commitment to work at the facility for a specified period after licensure. This path can be a cost-effective way to receive training and secure employment.
Best for: Individuals looking for a direct transition from training to employment
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- •Attending a training program not on the Virginia 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
NNAAP Written and Skills Examination administered by Pearson VUE
Written Test
Questions: 70
Time Limit: 2 hours
Format: Multiple choice
Passing Score: Must pass both written and skills test to be certified
- • Physical Care Skills (30%)
- • Psychosocial Care Skills (15%)
- • Role of the Nurse (20%)
- • Infection Control (10%)
- • Data Collection and Reporting (15%)
- • Basic Nursing Principles (10%)
Skills Test
Skills Tested: 5
Time Per Skill: 25-30 minutes total
Candidates demonstrate skills on a mannequin or with a fellow test-taker under the observation of a nurse evaluator.
What to Bring
- ✓ Two forms of identification, one with a recent photo
- ✓ Authorization to Test letter
- ✓ Three No. 2 pencils
- ✓ Watch with a second hand
Do Not Bring
- ✗ Personal belongings such as bags or purses
- ✗ Electronic devices including cell phones and smartwatches
- ✗ Food or drink
Day-of Timeline
Arrive 30 minutes early. Check-in takes approximately 15 minutes. Written test lasts 2 hours. Break for 30 minutes. Skills test lasts approximately 30 minutes.
Getting Your Results
Results are typically available immediately after the skills test. Official results are mailed within a few weeks.
If You Don't Pass
Candidates can retake the exam three times within one year from the initial test date. Each retake requires paying the examination fee again. After three unsuccessful attempts, additional training is required.
Exam Strategies
- 1. Read each question carefully, focusing on keywords and phrases to ensure understanding of what is being asked.
- 2. Manage time efficiently, especially during the skills test, by practicing each skill within the allotted time before the exam.
- 3. During the skills test, verbalize each step of the procedure to ensure the evaluator understands your actions.
- 4. Eliminate obviously incorrect answers first in the multiple-choice test to improve the odds of selecting the correct answer.
Document Checklist
Every document you need from start to finish
1Before Training
High School Diploma or GED
From previous educational institutions · Varies (usually no cost for copies) · 1-4 weeks
Required for enrollment in LPN programs
Immunization Records
Personal physician or health department · Varies · 1-3 weeks
Must include MMR, Varicella, Hepatitis B, and Tetanus
Tuberculosis (TB) Test Results
Healthcare provider · Approximately $20-$50 · 1-2 days
Some programs may require a two-step test
CPR Certification
American Heart Association or Red Cross · Approximately $50-$100 · Varies by course availability
Must be Healthcare Provider level
Criminal Background Check
Third-party service or state police · Approximately $20-$60 · 1-3 weeks
Required by most training programs for clinical eligibility
2During Training
Enrollment Verification
LPN training program · No cost · Immediate
Proof of enrollment may be needed for various purposes
Student ID
LPN training program · No cost or minimal fee · 1-2 weeks
Needed for access to facilities and services
Liability Insurance Proof
Insurance provider · Approximately $30-$100 annually · Immediate to 1 week
Required for clinical rotations
Course Transcripts
LPN training program · No cost or minimal fee per copy · 1-2 weeks
Needed for transferring credits or future educational opportunities
3For the Exam
Application for NCLEX-PN
Virginia Board of Nursing website · Application fee approximately $200
Must apply to take the licensing exam
ATT (Authorization to Test)
Received via email after NCLEX application is processed · Included in NCLEX application fee
Required to schedule the exam
Photo ID
State DMV or other government agency · Varies by state
Needed for identity verification on exam day
4For Certification
NCLEX-PN Passing Score Report
Received post-exam from testing service · Included in exam fee
Proof of passing the NCLEX-PN
LPN License Application
Virginia Board of Nursing website · Licensing fee approximately $170
Required to obtain official LPN license
Proof of Age and Legal Presence
Birth certificate, passport, or other government-issued ID · Varies
Must demonstrate eligibility to work in the U.S.
After You're Certified: What's Next
Immediately after passing your LPN exam, verify your status on the Virginia Board of Nursing's online registry. Ensure your certificate arrives by mail, and if not, contact the board to inquire about its status.
Finding Your First Job
Where to Look
- • Virginia-specific job boards like Virginia Health Workforce Development Authority, Indeed, Glassdoor, and LinkedIn. Local hospital and clinic websites also post job openings directly.
Best Employers for New Grads
- • Hospitals, long-term care facilities, and private clinics are primary employers. Hospitals often offer more complex cases with diverse learning opportunities, while long-term care facilities may provide more stable hours but potentially with a more repetitive caseload.
Resume Tip: Highlight clinical skills learned during training, any externships, and soft skills like communication and empathy. Clearly list your LPN certification and any CPR or other relevant certifications.
Interview Tip: Describe a time you handled a stressful situation.What motivates you to work in healthcare?How do you prioritize tasks?Provide an example of how you've dealt with a difficult patient.
Expected First-Year Salary
In Virginia, entry-level LPNs can expect to earn between $35,000 and $45,000 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
- • Managing time effectively during shifts, coping with the emotional and physical demands of the job, and adapting to different healthcare settings and patient needs.
Licensed Practical Nurse Salary in Virginia
In Virginia, Licensed Practical Nurses earn a median annual salary of $58,200, slightly below the national median. This reflects a competitive pay scale for LPNs in the state, considering the cost of living and local demand.
Entry Level
$45,670
0-1 years experience
Median Salary
$58,200
$27.98/hr · Bureau of Labor Statistics
Experienced
$77,870
5+ years experience
Compared to National Median
$59,730 national · -2.6% in Virginia
Salary by Metro Area
Comparable to state median
Slightly below state median
Below state median
Salary by Employer Type
The salary of LPNs in Virginia is moderately aligned with the state's cost of living, which varies by region but is generally reasonable compared to other states with similar salaries.
Benefits & Compensation
Typical benefits include health insurance, retirement plans, paid leave, and continuing education opportunities.
Salary Growth Outlook
Salary growth for LPNs in Virginia is expected to align with national trends, potentially increasing with experience and specialization.
Salary Negotiation Tips
- •Research average salaries in your specific Virginia region to inform your discussions.
- •Highlight any specialized skills or certifications that enhance your value to employers.
Job Market in Virginia
In Virginia, the Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) job market exhibits a steady demand influenced by an aging population and expanding healthcare facilities. While the national LPN employment is projected to grow by 2.6% from 2024 to 2034, Virginia's growth aligns closely with this trend, driven by increased healthcare needs in urban and suburban regions.
Top Hiring Areas
Higher population density and wealth
Central location with several large hospitals
Military and elderly population influence
Top Hiring Industries
Best time to apply: Early spring and late fall, aligning with budget cycles of major healthcare providers
Opportunities
- Specialization in geriatric care
- Advancement through continued education
Challenges
- Competition with RNs for similar roles
- Salary competition from neighboring states
Training Programs in Virginia
Virginia offers diverse options for training as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) through community colleges, vocational schools, and employer-sponsored programs. These programs prepare students for the NCLEX-PN exam, essential for licensure.
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 | Free/Paid training | On-the-job |
|
Top Programs
Annandale, Virginia
High NCLEX pass rates and comprehensive clinical placements
Richmond, Virginia
Accelerated program with extensive hands-on training
Online & Hybrid Options
Some programs offer hybrid formats, combining online theory courses with in-person clinical practice.
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 Virginia
Renewal Requirements
Renewal Period
Every 2 years
Renewal Fee
Varies
CE Hours
Required number varies hours
Work requirement: None specified
CE Topics: Varies
Out-of-State Reciprocity
Virginia offers a process called endorsement for Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) who are licensed in other states. This process allows LPNs to obtain a Virginia license based on their existing credentials without having to retake the licensure examination.
Requirements for Reciprocity
- Active LPN license in another state with similar standards to Virginia
- Completion of a state-approved LPN program or equivalent
State Agreements
All U.S. states and territories
Additional Exams
No additional exams required if the applicant's original state licensure requirements are equivalent to Virginia's
Application Process
Submit an application for licensure by endorsement, provide verification of original licensure, submit transcripts from nursing school, and complete a criminal background check.
Fees
Application fee for endorsement is $190
Processing Time: Applications are typically processed within 30 days
Licensing Tips
Ensure all application documents are complete to avoid delays.
Keep track of renewal deadlines to maintain active license status.
Recommended Resources
NCLEX-PN Practice Questions Exam Cram
Provides 1000 practice questions with detailed answers and explanations to improve test-taking skills.
Saunders Comprehensive Review for the NCLEX-PN Examination
Includes over 4,500 NCLEX examination-style questions to help students prepare effectively.
Davis's Drug Guide for Nurses
Offers up-to-date drug information essential for safe administration, including dosages and side effects.
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
Necessary for assessing patient heart and lung sounds during clinical training.
Nursing Scrubs
Required attire for maintaining hygiene and professional appearance in clinical settings.
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Sources
- Bureau of Labor StatisticsAccessed 2026-02-08
- Virginia Licensing BoardAccessed 2026-02-08
- CareerOneStopAccessed 2026-02-08