Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Montana

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

Median Salary
$59,750
Montana (2024)
National Median
$62,340
All states
License Fees
$300
Exam + application
Time to Complete
Approximately 1 year for education program, plus application processing time
From start to licensed

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

To become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Montana, individuals must complete a state-approved practical nursing program and pass the NCLEX-PN examination. The licensing body is the Montana Board of Nursing. Applicants must also submit a $100 application fee and undergo a criminal background check. Montana is a Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) state, allowing LPNs with a multistate license from another NLC state to practice without obtaining a separate Montana license, though those establishing Montana as their primary residence must apply for a Montana license within 60 days.

Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Requirements in Montana

DetailMontana
Licensing BodyMontana Board of Nursing
State License Required Yes
EducationCompletion of a state-approved practical nursing program
Exam NCLEX-PN ($200)
Application Fee$100
RenewalEvery 2.0 years
Continuing Education24.0 hours per cycle
NotesMinimum age of 18 years old. A criminal background check is required. Must hold a valid government-issued identification. Must demonstrate good moral character.

Source: Montana Board of Nursing

Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Salary in Montana

The median licensed practical nurse salary in Montana is $59,750 per year, which is 4.2% below the national median of $62,340.

PercentileAnnual Salary
10th (entry level)$47,040
25th$50,270
50th (median)$59,750
75th$63,570
90th (experienced)$74,500

Montana employs approximately 1,630 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 Montana Worth It?

Factors to consider: Montana'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 Montana?
The path to licensed practical nurse licensure in Montana: complete the required education (Completion of a state-approved practical nursing program), pass the NCLEX-PN, and submit your application ($100 fee).
Do I need a license to work as a licensed practical nurse in Montana?
You cannot practice as a licensed practical nurse in Montana without a state license from Montana Board of Nursing. The required exam is the NCLEX-PN.
How much does a licensed practical nurse make in Montana?
licensed practical nurses in Montana earn a median of $59,750 annually. That's roughly in line with the $62,340 national median. New licensed practical nurses start around $47,040; seasoned professionals can reach $74,500.
How much does it cost to become a licensed practical nurse in Montana?
Plan on spending varies total — that covers exam fee ($200) and application fee ($100) plus your education and training.
How long does it take to become a licensed practical nurse in Montana?
Expect to spend Approximately 1 year for education program, plus application processing time from start to finish in Montana — covering coursework, supervised experience, and examination.
How many CE hours do licensed practical nurses need in Montana?
To keep your license active, Montana mandates 24.0 CE hours every 2.0 years.

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