Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Colorado
Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for CO
How to Become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Colorado
To become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Colorado, individuals must complete a state-approved practical nursing program, pass the NCLEX-PN exam, and submit an application to the Colorado Board of Nursing. The application fee is $88, and a background check with fingerprints is required. While there are no specific continuing education hours, LPNs must demonstrate continuing competency for renewal every two years. Colorado is part of the Nurse Licensure Compact, allowing LPNs from other compact states to practice in Colorado under their multistate license if Colorado is not their primary state of residence.
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Requirements in Colorado
| Detail | Colorado |
|---|---|
| Licensing Body | Colorado Board of Nursing |
| State License Required | Yes |
| Education | Completion of a state-approved practical nursing program |
| Exam | NCLEX-PN ($200) |
| Application Fee | $88 |
| Renewal | Every 2.0 years |
| Notes | Applicants must submit fingerprints for state and federal background checks. While there are no specific continuing education *hours* required for renewal, LPNs must demonstrate continuing competency through various methods, such as 20 contact hours of CE, 400 hours of active practice, completion of a refresher course, or national nursing certification. All LPN licenses expire on September 30th of even or odd-numbered years, depending on issuance. Colorado is a Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) state, allowing LPNs with a multistate license from another compact state to practice without a separate Colorado license, provided Colorado is not their primary state of residence. |
Source: Colorado Board of Nursing
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Salary in Colorado
The median licensed practical nurse salary in Colorado is $67,480 per year, which is 8.2% above the national median of $62,340.
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th (entry level) | $52,320 |
| 25th | $60,960 |
| 50th (median) | $67,480 |
| 75th | $77,200 |
| 90th (experienced) | $82,850 |
Colorado employs approximately 5,030 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 Colorado Worth It?
Factors to consider: Colorado's cost of living, the state licensing requirement, moderate job growth, low AI disruption risk, and your personal career goals.