Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Arizona
Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for AZ
How to Become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Arizona
To become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Arizona, candidates must be at least 18 years old and complete a state-approved practical nursing program. After completing their education, applicants must pass the NCLEX-PN exam and undergo a criminal background check with fingerprinting. Arizona is part of the Nurse Licensure Compact, allowing LPNs with a multistate license from another compact state to practice there. Licenses must be renewed every four years, with renewal requiring either 960 hours of practice in the past five years, recent graduation from a nursing program, completion of a board-approved refresher course, or an advanced nursing degree.
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Requirements in Arizona
| Detail | Arizona |
|---|---|
| Licensing Body | Arizona State Board of Nursing |
| State License Required | Yes |
| Education | Completion of a state-approved practical nursing program |
| Exam | NCLEX-PN ($200) |
| Application Fee | $300 |
| Renewal | Every 4.0 years |
| Notes | Minimum age: 18 years old. A criminal background check and fingerprinting are required. To renew, LPNs must meet one of the following within the past 5 years: 960 hours of clinical nursing practice, graduation from a nursing program, completion of a board-approved refresher course, or earning an advanced nursing degree. If renewing after April 1st, a late fee of $50 per month (up to $200) applies. If not renewed by August 1st, the license expires and requires reinstatement. |
Source: Arizona State Board of Nursing
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Salary in Arizona
The median licensed practical nurse salary in Arizona is $74,020 per year, which is 18.7% above the national median of $62,340.
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th (entry level) | $58,330 |
| 25th | $63,640 |
| 50th (median) | $74,020 |
| 75th | $79,650 |
| 90th (experienced) | $82,580 |
Arizona employs approximately 5,200 licensed practical nurses.
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Job Outlook
AI Impact on Licensed Practical Nurses
Low AI Exposure (Score: -0.51/1.00)
This career has low exposure to AI automation. Most tasks require physical presence, human judgment, or hands-on skills that AI cannot easily replicate.
Is Becoming a Licensed Practical Nurse in Arizona Worth It?
Factors to consider: Arizona's cost of living, the state licensing requirement, moderate job growth, low AI disruption risk, and your personal career goals.