Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Idaho

Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for ID

Median Salary
$61,720
Idaho (2024)
National Median
$62,340
All states
License Fees
$302
Exam + application
Time to Complete
1-2 years
From start to licensed

How to Become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Idaho

To become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Idaho, individuals must complete a state-approved practical nursing program and pass the NCLEX-PN exam. The licensing body is the Idaho Board of Nursing. A fingerprint-based criminal background check is required as part of the application process, and the application fee is $102. Idaho is a Nurse Licensure Compact state, which facilitates licensure for LPNs from other compact states.

Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Requirements in Idaho

DetailIdaho
Licensing BodyIdaho Board of Nursing
State License Required Yes
EducationCompletion of a state-approved practical nursing program
Exam NCLEX-PN ($200)
Application Fee$102
RenewalEvery 2.0 years
Continuing Education15.0 hours per cycle
NotesApplicants must complete a fingerprint-based criminal background check. Idaho is a Nurse Licensure Compact state. New graduate nurses are exempt from Continued Competence Requirements during their first renewal cycle. LPN licenses expire on August 31st of even-numbered years. There is a $35 late fee for renewals after August 31st. A temporary license costs $25.

Source: Idaho Board of Nursing

Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Salary in Idaho

The median licensed practical nurse salary in Idaho is $61,720 per year, which is 1.0% below the national median of $62,340.

PercentileAnnual Salary
10th (entry level)$28,190
25th$49,980
50th (median)$61,720
75th$71,190
90th (experienced)$76,290

Idaho employs approximately 2,380 licensed practical nurses.

Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Job Outlook

10-Year Growth
+2.6%
Average
Annual Openings
54.4
Nationwide per year
Total Employment
651.4
Nationwide

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 Idaho Worth It?

Factors to consider: Idaho's cost of living, the state licensing requirement, moderate job growth, low AI disruption risk, and your personal career goals.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you get certified as a licensed practical nurse in Idaho?
Idaho requires licensed practical nurses to complete the required education (Completion of a state-approved practical nursing program), pass the NCLEX-PN, and submit your application ($102 fee).
Is a licensed practical nurse license required in Idaho?
You cannot practice as a licensed practical nurse in Idaho without a state license from Idaho Board of Nursing. The required exam is the NCLEX-PN.
How much does a licensed practical nurse make in Idaho?
licensed practical nurses in Idaho earn a median of $61,720 annually. That's roughly in line with the $62,340 national median. Entry-level (10th percentile) starts at $28,190, while experienced professionals (90th percentile) earn $76,290.
What are the fees to become a licensed practical nurse in Idaho?
The full cost to enter the field runs about varies, factoring in exam fee ($200) and application fee ($102) and required training.
How long does it take to become a licensed practical nurse in Idaho?
Expect to spend 1-2 years from start to finish in Idaho — covering coursework, supervised experience, and examination.
What's required to renew a licensed practical nurse license in Idaho?
Yes — licensed practical nurses in Idaho must complete 15.0 CE hours every 2.0 years to stay licensed.

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