Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Florida
Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for FL
How to Become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Florida
To become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Florida, individuals must complete a state-approved practical nursing program and pass the NCLEX-PN exam. The licensing body is the Florida Board of Nursing. Applicants must also undergo a Level II background check and drug screening, and be at least 18 years old. Florida is part of the Nurse Licensure Compact, which simplifies practice for LPNs from other compact states, while those from non-compact states can apply for licensure by endorsement.
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Requirements in Florida
| Detail | Florida |
|---|---|
| Licensing Body | Florida Board of Nursing |
| State License Required | Yes |
| Education | Completion of a state-approved practical nursing program |
| Exam | NCLEX-PN ($200) |
| Application Fee | $175 |
| Renewal | Every 2.0 years |
| Continuing Education | 24.0 hours per cycle |
| Notes | Minimum age of 18. Requires a Level II background check and drug screening. CE requirements include specific topics like human trafficking, domestic violence (every third renewal, in addition to the 24 hours), medical errors, Florida laws and rules, and recognizing impairment in the workplace (every other renewal). A one-time HIV/AIDS course is required for the first renewal. |
Source: Florida Board of Nursing
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Salary in Florida
The median licensed practical nurse salary in Florida is $60,080 per year, which is 3.6% below the national median of $62,340.
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th (entry level) | $48,970 |
| 25th | $53,430 |
| 50th (median) | $60,080 |
| 75th | $63,260 |
| 90th (experienced) | $72,950 |
Florida employs approximately 36,470 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 Florida Worth It?
Factors to consider: Florida's cost of living, the state licensing requirement, moderate job growth, low AI disruption risk, and your personal career goals.