Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Delaware
Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for DE
How to Become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Delaware
To become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Delaware, individuals must complete a state-approved practical nursing program and pass the NCLEX-PN exam. The licensing body is the Delaware Board of Nursing, and a state license is required. Applicants must also undergo state and federal criminal background checks via digital fingerprinting. Delaware is a Nurse Licensure Compact state, allowing LPNs with a multistate license from another compact state to practice, though those establishing residency in Delaware must apply for a Delaware license within 60 days. Licenses are renewed every two years, requiring 24 continuing education hours, with 3 hours specifically in substance abuse, and attestation of recent practice hours.
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Requirements in Delaware
| Detail | Delaware |
|---|---|
| Licensing Body | Delaware Board of Nursing |
| State License Required | Yes |
| Education | Completion of a state-approved practical nursing program |
| Exam | NCLEX-PN ($200) |
| Application Fee | $181 |
| Renewal | Every 2.0 years |
| Continuing Education | 24.0 hours per cycle |
| Notes | Renewal is every two years on February 28 of even-numbered years. A criminal background check (state and federal) is required for initial licensure and involves digital fingerprinting through IdentoGO. Some LPN programs in Delaware have a minimum age requirement of 18 or 20 years old. Applicants must also attest to practicing a minimum of 1,000 hours in the past five years or 400 hours in the past two years for renewal. 3 of the 24 CE hours must be in substance abuse. Delaware is a Nurse Licensure Compact state. |
Source: Delaware Board of Nursing
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Salary in Delaware
The median licensed practical nurse salary in Delaware is $66,090 per year, which is 6.0% above the national median of $62,340.
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th (entry level) | $55,210 |
| 25th | $62,250 |
| 50th (median) | $66,090 |
| 75th | $71,450 |
| 90th (experienced) | $75,670 |
Delaware employs approximately 1,600 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 Delaware Worth It?
Factors to consider: Delaware's cost of living, the state licensing requirement, moderate job growth, low AI disruption risk, and your personal career goals.