Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Maryland
Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for MD
How to Become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Maryland
To become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Maryland, individuals must complete a state-approved practical nursing program and pass the NCLEX-PN examination. A criminal history records check, including fingerprinting, is a mandatory part of the application process. Maryland is a Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) state, allowing LPNs with a multistate license from another compact state to practice there. For license renewal every two years, LPNs must fulfill one of three requirements: 1,000 hours of active nursing practice in the past five years, completion of a Board-approved nursing education program in the past five years, or 30 continuing education units within the two years prior to renewal. A one-time implicit bias training course is also required for renewal.
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Requirements in Maryland
| Detail | Maryland |
|---|---|
| Licensing Body | Maryland Board of Nursing |
| State License Required | Yes |
| Education | Completion of a state-approved practical nursing program |
| Exam | NCLEX-PN ($200) |
| Application Fee | $187 |
| Renewal | Every 2.0 years |
| Continuing Education | 30.0 hours per cycle |
| Notes | A criminal history records check is required, including fingerprinting. For renewal, LPNs must meet one of the following: 1,000 hours of active nursing practice within the past 5 years, completion of a Board-approved nursing education program within the past 5 years, or 30 continuing education units (CEUs) within the 2 years immediately preceding renewal. A one-time implicit bias training course is also required for renewal, effective April 1, 2022. Maryland is a Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) state. |
Source: Maryland Board of Nursing
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Salary in Maryland
The median licensed practical nurse salary in Maryland is $69,870 per year, which is 12.1% above the national median of $62,340.
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th (entry level) | $59,430 |
| 25th | $63,750 |
| 50th (median) | $69,870 |
| 75th | $75,990 |
| 90th (experienced) | $85,570 |
Maryland employs approximately 9,510 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 Maryland Worth It?
Factors to consider: Maryland's cost of living, the state licensing requirement, moderate job growth, low AI disruption risk, and your personal career goals.