Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Maine

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

Median Salary
$70,870
Maine (2024)
National Median
$62,340
All states
License Fees
$250
Exam + application
Time to Complete
1-2 years
From start to licensed

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

To become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Maine, individuals must complete a state-approved practical nursing program and pass the NCLEX-PN examination. The Maine State Board of Nursing oversees the licensing process. The application fee is $50, and a criminal background check is required. Maine is part of the Nurse Licensure Compact, allowing LPNs with multi-state licenses from other compact states to practice, though those moving to Maine permanently will need to declare residency and apply for a Maine multi-state license. There are no continuing education requirements for LPN license renewal in Maine.

Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Requirements in Maine

DetailMaine
Licensing BodyMaine State Board of Nursing
State License Required Yes
EducationCompletion of a state-approved practical nursing program
Exam NCLEX-PN ($200)
Application Fee$50
RenewalEvery 2.0 years
NotesApplicants must undergo a criminal background check, including fingerprinting. A social security number is required for licensure. Maine is a Nurse Licensure Compact state, meaning LPNs licensed in other compact states can practice in Maine without additional licensure, unless they are moving to Maine permanently. Foreign-educated applicants have additional requirements, including a transcript review by CGFNS and potentially a TOEFL English language proficiency test.

Source: Maine State Board of Nursing

Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Salary in Maine

The median licensed practical nurse salary in Maine is $70,870 per year, which is 13.7% above the national median of $62,340.

PercentileAnnual Salary
10th (entry level)$50,840
25th$61,780
50th (median)$70,870
75th$75,940
90th (experienced)$99,860

Maine employs approximately 850 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 Maine Worth It?

Factors to consider: Maine'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 I become a licensed practical nurse in Maine?
To become a licensed practical nurse in Maine, you need to complete the required education (Completion of a state-approved practical nursing program), pass the NCLEX-PN, and submit your application ($50 fee).
Is a licensed practical nurse license required in Maine?
A state license is required in Maine. Maine State Board of Nursing handles licensed practical nurse licensing — the NCLEX-PN is part of the process.
What do licensed practical nurses earn in Maine?
The median licensed practical nurse salary in Maine is $70,870 per year. That's 14% above the national median of $62,340. Wages range from $50,840 (10th percentile) up to $99,860 (90th percentile).
What's the total cost to get licensed practical nurse certified in Maine?
Plan on spending varies total — that covers exam fee ($200) and application fee ($50) plus your education and training.
How many months or years does licensed practical nurse certification take in Maine?
In Maine, becoming a licensed practical nurse generally takes 1-2 years, accounting for education requirements, hands-on training, and the exam process.

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