Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Iowa
Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for IA
How to Become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Iowa
To become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Iowa, individuals must complete a state-approved practical nursing program and pass the NCLEX-PN examination. The licensing body is the Iowa Board of Nursing. Iowa is part of the Nurse Licensure Compact, which facilitates practice for LPNs licensed in other compact states. Renewal of the license is required every three years, with 36 hours of continuing education, including a mandatory abuse identification and reporting course if applicable.
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Requirements in Iowa
| Detail | Iowa |
|---|---|
| Licensing Body | Iowa Board of Nursing |
| State License Required | Yes |
| Education | Completion of a state-approved practical nursing program |
| Exam | NCLEX-PN ($200) |
| Application Fee | $143 |
| Renewal | Every 3.0 years |
| Continuing Education | 36.0 hours per cycle |
| Notes | Renewal is every 3 years, expiring on the 15th day of the birth month. CE must include 2 hours in identifying and reporting abuse if you regularly examine, attend, counsel, or treat children or dependent adults. A criminal history background check and fingerprinting are required for initial licensure. There is no minimum age specified. Iowa is a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact. |
Source: Iowa Board of Nursing
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Salary in Iowa
The median licensed practical nurse salary in Iowa is $59,460 per year, which is 4.6% below the national median of $62,340.
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th (entry level) | $48,510 |
| 25th | $51,560 |
| 50th (median) | $59,460 |
| 75th | $64,110 |
| 90th (experienced) | $75,320 |
Iowa employs approximately 5,520 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 Iowa Worth It?
Factors to consider: Iowa's cost of living, the state licensing requirement, moderate job growth, low AI disruption risk, and your personal career goals.