Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Mississippi

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

Median Salary
$48,850
Mississippi (2024)
National Median
$62,340
All states
License Fees
$260
Exam + application
Time to Complete
1-2 years
From start to licensed

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

To become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Mississippi, individuals must complete a state-approved practical nursing program and successfully pass the NCLEX-PN examination. The licensing body is the Mississippi Board of Nursing. A criminal background check and fingerprinting are mandatory for all applicants. Mississippi does not participate in the Nurse Licensure Compact for LPNs, meaning LPNs licensed in other states must apply for licensure by endorsement.

Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Requirements in Mississippi

DetailMississippi
Licensing BodyMississippi Board of Nursing
State License Required Yes
EducationCompletion of a state-approved practical nursing program
Exam NCLEX-PN ($200)
Application Fee$60
RenewalEvery 2.0 years
NotesA criminal background check and fingerprinting are required. No CE is required for renewal unless the LPN has been out of practice for more than five years, in which case 20 hours of CE are required. Mississippi does not participate in the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) for LPNs; therefore, LPNs must apply for licensure by endorsement.

Source: Mississippi Board of Nursing

Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Salary in Mississippi

The median licensed practical nurse salary in Mississippi is $48,850 per year, which is 21.6% below the national median of $62,340.

PercentileAnnual Salary
10th (entry level)$37,540
25th$44,260
50th (median)$48,850
75th$57,120
90th (experienced)$61,440

Mississippi employs approximately 9,880 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 Mississippi Worth It?

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

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the steps to becoming a licensed practical nurse in Mississippi?
In Mississippi, becoming a licensed practical nurse requires you to complete the required education (Completion of a state-approved practical nursing program), pass the NCLEX-PN, and submit your application ($60 fee).
Does Mississippi require licensed practical nurse licensure?
You cannot practice as a licensed practical nurse in Mississippi without a state license from Mississippi Board of Nursing. The required exam is the NCLEX-PN.
How much do licensed practical nurses make in Mississippi?
Mississippi licensed practical nurses bring home a median salary of $48,850. — 22% under the $62,340 national average. The range spans from $37,540 at the entry level to $61,440 for top earners.
How expensive is licensed practical nurse licensing in Mississippi?
Costs include exam fee ($200) and application fee ($60). The estimated total investment is varies, including education and training.
How long does it take to become a licensed practical nurse in Mississippi?
Expect to spend 1-2 years from start to finish in Mississippi — covering coursework, supervised experience, and examination.

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